Hitting the Hotspots
From tantalising tapas to swanky sit-downs, Christchurch has all the ingredients you need for a good night – or day – out, as the beacon of the burgeoning central city continues to shine. Jenafor Rollins checks out two of the new kids on the culinary block.
TASTE OF MEXICO
The smells of Mexico fill the atmosphere at Chiwahwah, located at The Terrace. This clever culinary creation is all about offering authentic dishes with a cool vibe. Experience the taste of Mexico as you browse the multi dish options on the extensive menu which include burritos, chimichangas, tacos, mole, nachos and dish after dish of taste.
Spice is a major ingredient of Mexican cooking and you can have your dish as mild or as hot as your heart desires. Why not take it up a notch and add some more spice to your life? Challenge yourself with a fork prong taste and see how you do. Make sure to have your glass of water or beer close by, just in case the heat catches you off guard.
After sharing a plate of starters, move onto your main which will be accompanied by refried beans or rice or both. These Mexican side dishes are offered at just about every meal. Combination platters allow you to try not just one, but two or three of the main items, before the grand finale of a dessert, such as flan. This creamy, light end to a meal is the perfect complement.
Whether it’s the friendly service, the welcoming atmosphere or the cool vibes of the décor, you will feel as if you have touched down in Mexico as soon as you head into this new central city hotspot.
VIET FUSION HAS ARRIVED
Rave reviews are being left for You Hanoi Me that has just opened on Victoria Street, headed by the hospitality masterminds behind Louis Champagne and Oyster Bar, and its central neighbour Red Light District.
The home of modern Viet cuisine, the new hospo hotspot brings the flavours of Vietnam to life, with the five out of five ratings soaring.
A global phenomenon, Viet food is about fresh, healthy, authentic Vietnamese street food, direct from Vietnam to the streets of Christchurch and You Hanoi Me has added its own modern twist. The story behind the new restaurant is an inspiring one. It is said Nam Cam, a third cousin of the late Charlie Winston of the Dry Cleaning Empire, opened his first Street Food Stall in a small village 22 clicks out of Hanoi during the Vietnam War.
Known famously for his Pho and Espresso Martinis and his ability to impersonate a young Sean Connery, he established himself as North Vietnam’s premier aluminium window specialist after his street stall went into receivership and the fact that he didn’t really sound like Sean Connery. Fifty six years later, You Hanoi Me opened in his honour.
