Hilltop hotspot: Sign of the Takahe

Print this story Comfy café by day and family-friendly restaurant experience in the evening, Sign of the Takahe is a destination neighbourhood local on the Port Hills. Soak in panoramic views across the city to the Southern Alps from the tranquil garden, or cosy up inside the beautifully renovated heritage building.   Sign of the […]

Made from scratch: Bunco’s

Print this story It’s a place where nicknames are celebrated. Derek Morris, known as Bunco by his mates, thought that name was the perfect one for his new cafe in Amberley.     Not only that, but some of the mates get their own nickname recognition in the various brioche bun burgers that are the […]

Fluffies for fluffies: Fluffies for fluffies

Print this story The aptly named Central Bark Café is a haven for customers who wish to relax, indulge and meet likeminded pet owners. Locally owned and operated by Cantabrian Linda Ashworth, her goal is to create a destination café like no other in Christchurch.   Here you’ll not only find a tempting cabinet bursting […]

Pick a piquette

Print this story One old drink is gaining new popularity for its low alcohol content and fresh, light flavours. Meet piquette, the Centuries-old mellow and humble wine-ish beverage having its moment in the sun (again).     This drop is a low alcohol wine made from the second pressings of grape pomace (the pulpy residue […]

Bored of boards?

Print this story If you’ve been to any form of social event you’ve most likely come across the ever-popular charcuterie board. But with changing times, aka a global pandemic, cuisine connoisseurs have had to get crafty. Jarcuterie is truly taking the internet by storm and putting the cute in charcuterie.     First posted by […]

Tray-bake chicken Caesar salad: Annabel Langbein

Print this story Caesar salad is one of those timeless recipes that everyone loves. Throwing everything into the oven to cook makes fast work of this fabulous recipe, and the dressing can also be made ahead of time.   INGREDIENTS Caesar salad 4 boneless chicken thighs, ideally skin-on 8 rashers streaky bacon 4 trusses cherry […]

Simply irresistible: Gordon’s Pickles

Print this story This is a true story of the enticing allure of the pickled onion. Picture The Picklery at Gordon’s as two customers enter…   “It’s a personal crisis,” the man says as he heads to the shelves filled with product. “We’ve run out of pickled onions!” He selects a jar of onions and […]

Why buy local? Coffee Worx

Print this story Kiwis are serious about their coffee, and in a time where supporting local has never been more important Metropol catches up with local roasters, Coffee Worx, about the importance of supporting Cantabrian coffee connoisseurs.     The coffee industry is very competitive. Many homegrown coffee roasteries are facing increasing costs and a […]

Location, location, location: Salt n Pepper Cafe

Print this story Salt n Pepper owner, Dharambir Judge, argues that his café has the best view in Hanmer. Situated at the Boulder Point Precinct you can take in the scenic Conical Hill whilst taking in your sensationally smooth Atomic coffee.     It’s dog-friendly, which makes stopping in on your walk that bit more […]

Time for an upgrade! Red Post Cafe

Print this story In a year where best laid plans were thrown out the window and there was no choice but to embrace uncertainty, Red Post Café co-owners Trent and Carolyn took a bold step.     The pair have run the Culverden café since July 2008, and while most of us were negotiating what […]