The café Christchurch can’t get enough of: Cocoa Black

“Much of our growth comes from customers asking us to open closer to where they live or work,” says the Christchurch business owner behind a seven-strong coffee shop empire. “I do not think there is one single secret formula. For us, it has always been about consistency, good people, fresh food and genuinely […]

A Christchurch ritual: The Bealey Quarter

Some places become part of a city’s routine. Where locals meet friends after work, families celebrate milestones, and people settle in for a weekend stay or to enjoy a delicious meal… The Bealey Quarter has found its home within the buzz of city living. It’s a venue that’s continued to evolve while staying […]

Kirwee country charm: Thirsty Acres

A charming Kirwee bar and restaurant is the perfect place for escaping to the country. Nestled in the heart of Kirwee, just 25 minutes from Christchurch, Thirsty Acres is the ideal destination for those seeking a getaway that feels like a world away. Steeped in country charm and hospitality, the venue offers more […]

Geraldine gastropub: House of Hop

Old-fashioned hospitality, a petting zoo, craft beer, and real food made from scratch make this rural restaurant and brewery near Geraldine the perfect country escape. Located 10 kilometres from Geraldine, the House of Hop gastropub and brewery is so much more than a beautiful spot to get a great bite to eat. Set […]

Beer-battered fries

Serves: 4 Ingredients • 4 large potatoes, Agria or russet • Neutral oil for frying (beef tallow, lard, ghee, refined olive oil) • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 2 Tbsp cornstarch • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet) • 1/2 tsp onion powder […]

Cabbages and kings

Want to cook cabbage like a chef from a Michelin restaurant? Try this recipe from Simon Levy of Michelin-star Christchurch restaurant Inati. Author Lewis Carroll wrote the now-famous “cabbages and kings” line into his poem, ‘The Walrus and the Carpenter’. In China, the cabbage is a symbol of prosperity, and two cities boast […]

Would you like fries with that? Makikihi Fries

How do you like your fries? Straight cut, steak cut, crinkle cut or jacket cut? The good news is, with Makikihi Fries, you don’t have to settle for just one favourite. Made from golden-flesh potatoes grown here in South Canterbury, Makikihi Fries have become a staple in Kiwi households, whether served alongside a […]

Red wine poached pears in puff pastry

Tracing back to medieval Europe and ancient Rome, when cooks used spiced wine poaching to soften unripened autumn cooking pears, this elegant dessert is a winner if you’re out to impress. Serves 4 Ingredients • 4 small firm pears, peeled • 750ml red wine • 1/2 cup caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick […]

11 dog-friendly Christchurch eateries 11 dog-friendly Christchurch eateries

Where can you take your dog inside in mid-winter? Here’s our pick of the best local dog-friendly Canterbury cafés and pubs that go out of their way to welcome your best four-legged friend. Mid-winter can be tough for people with dogs. In summer, there is no shortage of cafés and bars that let […]

Gingerbread bundt cake with caramel

Ginger-heavy, deeply treacly, and gorgeously bold, this gingerbread bundt cake with gooey caramel from former Masterchef Australia champion Emelia Jackson is the perfect mid-winter pick-me-up. Closely resembling a pound cake with its tight and buttery crumb structure, Emelia says the heavy spice mixture pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel drip over […]