Fool-proof banana pancakes

Whether it’s Sunday brunch on a chilly morning or a delicious dessert, nothing beats a warm and sweet banana pancake. Fresh from her new cookbook titled More Than Toast, author Rhiannon Baldock says this recipe cannot fail. “I have been making these pancakes for years now, and they really are foolproof. The recipe […]

Top local tavern: Tavern Harewood

A family-friendly bar and restaurant at the heart of Harewood’s community is a treasure box of connection and memory-making. Harewood is lucky to host a local tavern that is designed for comfort and convenience, with plenty of on-site parking and family-friendly dining. Even better, Tavern Harewood is under new ownership and joins the […]

Fridge fritters recipe

Cook Rhiannon Baldock isn’t the only one with vegetables looking a little worse for wear in the fridge. Her take on the classic corn fritters with a garlicky chilli yoghurt is the best way to make the most of those not-so-pretty vegetables while you still can. Ingredients | serves 4 Fritters 1/4 cup […]

Sunsets and city sights: The Arlo

For a knock-out view of the city with exceptional food and wine, this hillside bar and restaurant packs a punch. Asweeping vista paired with exceptional food and wine makes Arlo Bar and Restaurant a standout destination for both Christchurch visitors and locals. Perched high on Hackthorne Road, its outlook across the city is […]

Charming Mayfield stopover: Cafe Mayfield

Heading out of town? Don’t miss one of Canterbury’s best-kept secrets. Just a small detour off the South Island’s main north-south routes, Cafe Mayfield is a refreshing change from the usual roadside eateries. Explore Canterbury’s inland scenic route 72 and the charming rural town of Mayfield, which is home to one of the […]

Sing it! Cheers & Karaoke Bar

Celebrating a birthday? Looking for school holiday fun? Or just craving some authentic Taiwanese food? What if we told you that you could do it all in one place? “It’s about creating a space where people can switch off from their day, connect with friends, and have fun – whether that’s through food, […]

Classic sponge recipe

Need a cake for a special occasion to please a crowd (or your mum)? Few people have the willpower and self-control needed to say no to a slice of decent sponge cake. This recipe from Christchurch-based food photographer and recipe developer Jessica Donaldson is perfect for a treat or celebration. Is there a […]

Flavours without borders: El Faro

More than just a café, this Ferrymead haven combines Mediterranean and South American flavours in a space created for the community. Lighthouses are symbols of safe harbours, of a welcome to secure anchorage. In Spanish, a lighthouse is called ‘el faro’, a phrase that could not be more appropriate for this eatery by […]

Chocolate truffle martini

Is it dessert? Is it a cocktail? We’re pretty sure mum won’t quibble with the semantics when you present her with this delicious, chocolatey treat. Ingredients: 60ml vodka (vanilla or chocolate vodka) 30ml chocolate liqueur 30ml Irish cream liqueur 30ml cream Ice cubes, 2 or 3 Method: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, […]

A calm conference: Tai Tapu Hotel

Imagine a countryside setting for your next function or boardroom meeting. Did we mention free parking and a private bar? The standalone function room at Tai Tapu Hotel is a welcoming, light-filled space that comfortably seats up to 80 guests, with flexible set-up options to suit your event. It’s available Monday to Sunday […]