In for gin: gin gin
June is a busy month for one of Christchurch’s favourite bars. Approaching the colder months, gin gin has you covered with a new winter food and cocktail menu launching at the end of June. Keeping a focus on local produce, the menu is set to have more options than ever, full of vibrant, […]
Amazing café goodies: Cocoa Black
When a Christchurch café opens a second location that’s busy from day one, there must be a secret ingredient. In this case there are two – happy staff, and awesome cheese scones. Merivale’s Cocoa Black launched its sister cafe in February at Bishopdale Mall. Both Cocoa Blacks’ long-serving employees laugh and chat away, […]
Skylark new cocktail bar: Christchurch Casino
Introducing Skylark Bar & Lounge – a stylish, new addition to the city’s nightlife and Christchurch Casino. At Skylark you can enjoy quality live entertainment and explore the divine cocktail menu featuring clever concoctions destined to become tasty classics. Formerly known as the Valley Bar, the space has undergone a stunning transformation to […]
Mussels with Pernod and fennel recipe
This is a French recipe, from a visiting winemaker in New Zealand for the wine harvest. An aniseed wheel may be substituted for Pernod, to make a non-alcoholic version, and fennel can be replaced with sliced onions. Serve with crusty French bread. Ingredients 1 Tbsp butter 2 fennel bulbs, cut into slivers 4 […]
Buying healthy: Raeward Fresh Tower Junction
We all know how important it is to eat a healthy balanced diet, covering the four main food groups, to give us the nutrients we need for our physical and mental wellbeing. Eating a variety of foods, vegetables and fruits, grain foods, milk and milk products, and a group of foods consisting of […]
Make mine mussels
Mussels in the half shell make a tasty hors-d’oeuvre, lunch, or dinner. Raw, cooked, or frozen mussels may be used, and the toppings can be tailored to suit all tastes. Grilling is best, but mussels can also be microwaved in the half shell. Cooking times differ. Raw mussels – grill 3-4 minutes, or […]
Delicious food, let’s eat: The Fine Lion
Winter can be a special time to spread the warm and cosy vibe of friendship and conviviality – perhaps with a drink after work or a meal in a relaxed environment. The Fine Lion eatery in Ashburton has a wonderful wrap-around, enclosed balcony that is the perfect spot for a cocktail, a beer […]
Treat your tastbuds: Wetlands Eatery
Brunch, lunch, coffee or tasty cabinet treats – nothing beats a bite to eat at a good cafe. Finding the right place, however, can sometimes be challenging. Today’s cafe culture calls for a nice environment to enjoy with friends and family, a variety of choices for all dietary requirements, and an array […]
Bangin’ BBQ: Truck Norris BBQ
Catering is a huge part of any event – you want your guests to have a great experience, and food is a big part of that. Food trucks are in vogue, and the perfect way to keep your guests fed and entertained. Food trucks provide more creative dishes and a unique experience for […]
Perfect pancakes
Pancakes, served with bacon and maple syrup, fresh fruit, sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice, are firm favourites in many weekend households. Whether making your own from scratch, or using a pre-mix, here are some tips to help you make perfect pancakes every time. Leave your mix to sit for 30 to […]












