Restaurants in Canterbury

The restaurant scene in Canterbury is exciting and diverse, covering everything from laid-back Kiwi eats to first-class fine dining. Add delicious local produce to the mix for a drool-worthy itinerary.

Treat yourself to a special evening in one of the gourmet restaurants in Canterbury. You'll find plenty of fine dining eateries serving up incredible dishes in beautiful surroundings - perfect if you've got romance in mind.

Don't worry if your tastes are more on the rustic side; there's also a great choice of relaxed cafes, pubs and street food trucks.

When it comes to deciding where to eat in Canterbury, you can't go wrong with farmers markets. Showcasing the best local produce, stall holders will have you feasting on everything from famous New Zealand lamb to freshly-baked cakes.

Planning a trip to Canterbury's dining hotspots is easy. Start with our pick of the best places to eat:

Fine Dining

  • The Oaks of Darfield is one of Canterbury's oldest historic homesteads. Enjoy seasonal produce and a New Zealand wine list worth raising a glass to.
  • For fancy European cuisine, reserve a table at The Happening Bar and Kitchen in Christchurch.
  • Pescatore is Christchurch's only two-hat restaurant, creating stunning modern dishes with a real taste of luxury.

Cafes and Casual Dining

  • A regional winner in the 2017 NZ Cafe of the Year, Arabica Licensed Cafe in Methven is famous for its all-day menu, as well as its curry nights during winter.
  • The Beach Hut Cafe in Christchurch is a cute place right by the sea. Order a huge cooked breakfast to get your day off to an unbeatable start.
  • If you're in Christchurch, swing by the Tiki Taco street food truck on Colombo Street. Their homemade hot sauces will blow your mind.

Farmers' Markets

  • Saturday mornings see the Mid-Canterbury Farmers Market alternate between Ashburton and Methven. Go meet the passionate producers behind some of the region's best food.
  • Christchurch Farmers Market in the beautiful grounds of Riccarton House is one of the largest in the city, selling fresh produce, wines, sweets, flowers and even dog bikkies.
  • The Friday morning Ohoka Farmers Market showcases local growers and artisans leading the way in eco-agriculture.

Created in partnership with Experience Mid Canterbury