On with the show: Crowne Plaza’s Market Place Restaurant

No matter how magnificent the show, the evening isn’t complete without perfect pre-theatre dining. The divine Market Place Restaurant at Crowne Plaza is just a five-minute walk from three of Christchurch’s premier performance venues: Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch Town Hall, and The Piano.

Market Place’s popular pre-theatre menu is available between 5:30 and 7:30pm, and is amazing value at $49 per person for entrée and main, or main and dessert, with a drink included! Showcasing Canterbury, the seasonal menu, created by Executive Chef Hamish Watt, features suppliers such as Akaroa Salmon, Wakanui Beef, Mountain River Venison, and Robinsons Bay Olive Oil.

As well as being a supporter of the flourishing future of our city, Market Place Restaurant takes its name from the city’s pioneer era and the first commercial centre of Christchurch, the Market Place, which was located across the road where picturesque Victoria Square now sits. Here, town and country met to exchange fresh produce, livestock and manufactured goods in a central location. Local historians have also pointed out that one of city’s first hospitality establishments, the ‘Golden Fleece’, once occupied the same site as the Crowne Plaza.

If you’re not in search of a comprehensive dinner, Crowne Plaza also proudly presents the modern Social Wine Bar on the ground floor. It’s the perfect spot for a drink or light meal to start your evening, and offers an impressive range of cocktails. With their new dessert wine and cheese board special available, a visit after the show is also a must. You never know who else you’ll see at Social!