Best Bistro in Christchurch (2026)

Christchurch's bistro scene is quietly strong — neighbourhood spots where the cooking is taken seriously without the fine dining price tag. These are the best.

20 places

Hillary House Restaurant

4.8(497)

fusion restaurant · Papanui

Hillary House brings together a world of flavours in a single dining experience, inspired by the legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay.

bistro-style menu butter chicken fish and chips

278 reviews

$$ - $$$

The Lane

4.4(304)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Lane’s menu offers modern flavours and reliable classics with a twist. We hero local, seasonal ingredients and support local producers wherever possible.

fresh ingredients gluten-free options local ingredients

132 reviews

Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

4.5(4,956)

restaurant · Montreal Street

Stylish, popular place offering inventive dishes & an extensive range of beer, wine & spirits.

desserts fine dining lamb burger

4,034 reviews

$$$

King of Snake

4.6(3,772)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Modern eatery serving creative Korean, Chinese & Southeast Asian eats in a dark, red-accented space.

asian fusion beef cheek curry contemporary dining

3,763 reviews

Casa Publica

4.6(3,638)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Classy tavern & cafe offering elevated South American dishes, live music & 100+ rum varieties.

authentic flavours bold flavours fresh ingredients

3,638 reviews

$$ - $$$ Michelin Guide

EARL - Restaurant Christchurch

4.6(2,979)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

At Earl, winter is our version of self-care — hearty plates, soulful cooking, good company and great wine.

comforting pasta great wine seasonal produce

704 reviews

$$$

Twenty Seven Steps

4.7(2,491)

restaurant · Christchurch 8011

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food, impressive wine selection, and attentive service.

2,491 reviews

$$ - $$$ Michelin Guide

Soul Quarter

4.6(2,154)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Soul Quarter serves bold, seasonal food in a warm and intimate setting.

braised meats french cuisine latin american dishes

533 reviews

$$$

5th Street

4.8(2,109)

restaurant · Sydenham

Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional food quality and the welcoming, helpful staff, making it a must-visit dining experience.

1,609 reviews

$$ - $$$

The Goldfinch

4.7(1,949)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Goldfinch nestled in the heart of Christchurch offers European & Asian Cuisine, showcasing the diversity of Aotearoa’s people and their heritage.

asian cuisine european cuisine gluten-free options

855 reviews

$$ Michelin Guide

The Monday Room

4.7(1,433)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Monday Room is a Christchurch dining institution established in 2016, known for its innovative twists on classic European cuisine and a commitment to showcasing the finest ingredients sourced from local farms.

artisan cocktails cocktails european cuisine

934 reviews

$$ - $$$

Story

4.8(1,091)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Every dish has a journey. Welcome to ours. STORY is the work of many hands, many cultures, and a shared passion for incredible food.

chef's tasting menu global culinary traditions seasonal ingredients

399 reviews

$$ - $$$

Manu Restaurant and Bar

4.8(1,080)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Manu is a vibrant and innovative restaurant and bar celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Pacifica glam and fresh Asian influences nestled in the heart of Ōtautahi Aotearoa (Christchurch, New Zealand).

asian flavours contemporary dining fusion cuisine

980 reviews

$$$$

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

4.7(1,008)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant offers a unique sightseeing experience, combining curated dining with city sightseeing aboard a historic tram.

new zealand produce premium local cuisine seasonal dining

996 reviews

$$ - $$$ Michelin Guide

A'mano authentic pasta & cucina

4.8(826)

italian restaurant · City Centre

In Italian, 'A’mano' means 'made by hand' — and for us, that’s not just a technique, it’s a philosophy. Our menu brings you the flavours of Italy to Christchurch.

artisan pizza authentic italian authentic italian pasta

525 reviews

Scoundrel

4.6(696)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Scoundrel’s been slinging tacos and pouring cheeky wines since the end of '23, and we’re just getting warmed up. Born from a crew of hospo lifers chasing the dream, our converted warehouse is home to a 1950s Austin truck, jungle vibes, comfy couches and a window straight into our roastery.

cheeky wines coffee dog-friendly bar

520 reviews

$$$$ Michelin Guide

ROCA

4.7(652)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

ROCA is inspired by our love for the flavours of the Mediterranean. From Spain to the Middle East, cooked with fire.

artisan chargrilled contemporary

647 reviews

$$$$ Michelin Guide

Odeon restaurant

4.6(418)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Odeon is inspired by Mediterranean dining culture, shared plates and organic/biodynamic wine set in a beautiful, comfortable space just around the corner from New Regent Street.

brunch dining experience mediterranean cuisine

418 reviews

$$ - $$$ Michelin Guide

Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door Restaurant

4.7(364)

restaurant · Cashmere

Tussock Hill Cellar Door Restaurant celebrates local producers with sharing plates that pair beautifully with our organic wine.

charcuterie dairy-free options fine dining

354 reviews

$$$$ Michelin Guide

LONDO

4.8(236)

restaurant · Merivale

Reviewers consistently praise the amazing food, friendly staff, and engaging atmosphere, making it a must-visit.

236 reviews