Best Date Night in Christchurch (2026)

asian fusion cocktails contemporary dining

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.

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

Mexicano's

4.5(3,446)

mexican restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Buzzy, dark locale with a Day of the Dead motif offering classic Mexican eats, margaritas & beer.

authentic mexican fresh flavours margaritas

2,600 reviews

Tutto Bene

4.5(3,066)

italian restaurant · St Albans

Lively Italian eatery with homey decor & a patio offering a broad menu of classic fare & a full bar.

artisan pizza fresh ingredients handmade pasta

3,066 reviews

autumn menu bistro canterbury produce

EARL - Restaurant Christchurch

4.6(2,979)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Earl is your neighbourhood bistro — the place for connection, comfort, and really good food.

704 reviews

artisan cuts canterbury meat charcoal oven

Bessie

4.6(2,971)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Our aim was to introduce the utmost quality in dining within a vibrant Christchurch environment, and we think we’ve done a pretty good job. Our specialty at Bessie is dry aged meat, a process that exemplifies our dedication to exceptional taste.

1,359 reviews

authentic italian cuisine european restaurant family-friendly dining

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

Francesca's Italian Kitchen Christchurch

4.5(2,323)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Experience the flavours, aromas and hospitality of Italy at Francesca's Italian Kitchen, where we celebrate classic Italian cooking with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

1,890 reviews

local produce modern bistro seasonal cocktails

Rascal

4.7(2,251)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Our menu is designed to share and it is constantly changing to keep you entertained.

730 reviews

braised meats french cuisine latin american influences

Soul Quarter

4.6(2,154)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Soul Quarter in Christchurch offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a menu celebrating local, fresh, and seasonal produce. Our chefs create dishes with incredible flavours and a focus on dietary options.

533 reviews

Original Sin

4.3(2,146)

italian restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Italy at Original Sin, your premier Italian restaurant located at The Terrace in the heart of Christchurch City Center.

cocktails fresh pasta italian

1,507 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

Curators House Restaurant

4.5(1,981)

spanish restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Tapas & other classic Spanish fare in a 1920 house with outside tables facing the Botanic Gardens.

dinners lamb lunches

1,503 reviews

authentic japanese japanese cuisine osaka inspired dishes

Tanoshi Christchurch

4.7(1,976)

japanese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Authentic Japanese restaurants in Queenstown, Wanaka & Christchurch offering Osaka inspired dishes!

892 reviews

asian cuisine european cuisine gluten-free options

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.

855 reviews

elegant fine dining gourmet

Chillingworth Road

4.6(1,826)

fine dining restaurant · Papanui

Restaurant & bar serving upscale New Zealand cuisine in an elegant, contemporary setting.

832 reviews

Strange Bandit by Luciano

4.6(1,731)

cafe · Burnside

Strange Bandit combines the talents of two award winning baristas and a stellar staff to bring Christchurch's best coffee and food to Roydvale.

brunch cafe cafe classics

1,470 reviews

Cocopelli

4.5(1,709)

pizza restaurant · Shirley

Airy, casual eatery serving thin-crust pizza with inventive toppings, plus steak, pasta & cocktails.

artisan pizzas cocktails craft beer

976 reviews

You Hanoi Me

4.4(1,588)

vietnamese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

An authentic slice of Vietnam right in the heart of Victoria Street, this is one of Christchurch’s newest and most exciting dining experiences!

authentic vietnamese modern vietnamese vietnamese cuisine

707 reviews

Sign of the Kiwi Cafe

4.6(1,536)

cafe · Cashmere

The Sign of the Kiwi serves great coffee and delicious, fresh food! Come up and see us and enjoy the view.

fresh food great coffee ice cream

1,536 reviews

Amazonita

4.3(1,529)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Amazonita is a contemporary eatery with a focus on delivering exceptional service and exquisite food in a plush yet relaxed setting. We specialise in shared plates of varying sizes, designed to be savoured and enjoyed together.

charcoal cooking seasonal ingredients shared plates

1,512 reviews

The Birdwood

4.5(1,437)

pizza restaurant · Beckenham

A cosy place to eat, meet, and unwind, offering great food and company.

fresh pasta italian wood-fired pizza locally roasted coffee

1,437 reviews

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

C4 Coffee Co.

4.6(1,233)

coffee shop · Christchurch Central City

C4 Coffee Co. offers some of the best brews in town, including batch, espresso, and pourover options.

artisan coffee fair trade coffee specialty brews

1,233 reviews

canterbury cuisine fine dining local produce

Inati restaurant

4.6(1,184)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

At INATI, you will dine around the chef’s table and share in the experience that is the theatre of the kitchen.

746 reviews

Formaggio’s

4.6(1,129)

italian restaurant · Sydenham

Formaggio’s is a fully licenced venue offering a varied menu featuring Italian-style dishes and traditional New Zealand mains.

italian-style pasta pizza plant-based menu

1,129 reviews

Smoke 'n' Barrel

4.7(1,128)

gastropub · Woolston

Smoke 'n' Barrel is the product of chefs Chris Geary and Cory Blackburn, who are passionate about traditional cooking and slow food.

american cuisine bbq catering

610 reviews

Himalayas Indian Restaurant City Centre Christchurch

4.5(1,110)

indian restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Tranquil establishment offering Northern Indian specialties for dine-in, takeaway & delivery.

authentic indian cuisine himalayan cuisine punjabi cuisine

1,110 reviews

izakaya japanese japanese cuisine

Bar Yoku

4.8(1,100)

japanese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Tucked into the escape of the Welder, we’ll help you sink into the darkness of the den or relax in the garden with a table full of tasty Japanese inspired dishes and flowing drinks.

1,088 reviews

chef's tasting menu fine dining new zealand cuisine

Story

4.8(1,091)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Story is the work of many hands, created by Chef Shafeeq Ismail and inspired by culinary experiences throughout the world.

399 reviews

asian flavours contemporary dining fusion cuisine

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).

980 reviews

Amaterrace Teppanyaki

4.6(1,077)

japanese restaurant · Level 1/134 Oxford Terrace

Amaterrace Teppanyaki offers an authentic teppanyaki dining experience in Christchurch, featuring skilled chefs and high-quality ingredients.

fresh seafood grilled meats grilled seafood

742 reviews

Thai Chef's Restaurant Christchurch

4.3(1,072)

thai restaurant · Riccarton

Thai restaurant serving classic & vegetarian menus, plus cocktails, in an easygoing atmosphere.

authentic thai food royal thai cuisine thai takeaway

1,072 reviews

Arbour Woodfired Pizza and Bar

4.7(1,061)

pizza restaurant · Lyttelton

Arbour Bar is a bar, artisan woodfired pizza restaurant, a home away from home, serving local brews and other tasty treats. We think food is best experienced with community, so we have designed our menu with sharing in mind.

artisan woodfired pizza local brews sharing plates

684 reviews

Sakimoto Japanese Bistro

4.6(1,037)

japanese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

At Sakimoto Japanese Bistro, the menu and the daily specials use only the freshest, most delicious ingredients of the season. Each dish is skillfully prepared by our Japanese chefs to bring the signature flavours of Japan straight to your plate.

japanese bistro japanese cuisine premium japanese gin

980 reviews

fine dining local cuisine luxury dining

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

4.7(1,008)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant offers a unique sightseeing experience, combining quality dining with a tour of the city aboard a historic tram.

996 reviews

authentic greek food family-style dining greek cuisine

The Athens Yacht Club

4.8(971)

greek restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Athens Yacht Club brings you the total Mediterranean experience with genuine hospitality and high-quality cuisine being the top priority.

937 reviews

Castro's Christchurch

4.3(927)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Reviewers consistently praise the warm and accommodating staff, delicious tapas, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favourite spot in Christchurch.

927 reviews

Casa Nostra Italian Kitchen

4.3(926)

italian restaurant · Ferrymead

Casa Nostra Italian Kitchen is a locally owned and operated restaurant that prides itself on great service, cultural flair and divine dishes for the whole family to share.

antipasti authentic italian cuisine authentic italian dishes

695 reviews

Boteco Cafe & Restaurant

4.5(909)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Boteco Cafe & Restaurant is committed to preparing meals with the freshest ingredients, creating delicious memories for every guest.

charcoal grilled homemade sauces mediterranean cuisine

680 reviews

Samairaz Indian Restaurant

4.8(899)

indian restaurant · Marshland

Samairaz Indian Restaurant showcases creative Indian cuisine by serving clay oven cooked breads and starters, complementing the flavours and traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques.

authentic indian cuisine clay oven cooked breads creative indian cuisine

844 reviews

Thai Garden (Cranford St)

4.2(891)

thai restaurant · Papanui

Thai Garden is full of the hustle bustle energy of a busy South East Asian restaurant, great for locals, travellers, couples, and families.

fresh ingredients local produce malaysian dishes

891 reviews

asian fusion cocktails modern asian

Zodiac Bar

4.7(887)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Zodiac is Christchurch's newest and best Asian Fusion Restaurant, offering a stylish dining experience in the heart of Christchurch CBD.

879 reviews

authentic italian handmade pasta italian wine

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.

525 reviews

Kum Pun Thai Restaurant

4.6(800)

thai restaurant · Christchurch Central City

At Kum Pun Thai Restaurant, our food is always fresh and cooked to perfection using Thai spices and recipes. We cater for all tastes with our traditional, modern and seasonal dishes.

affordable prices authentic thai cuisine meat options

800 reviews

authentic thai takeaway noodles pork dishes

La Ruby Thai Restaurant

4.7(793)

thai restaurant · Ferrymead

La Ruby Thai Restaurant is your go-to for authentic Thai takeaway in Christchurch. Order online and enjoy delicious food delivered straight to your door.

468 reviews

crafted pasta italian cuisine reinvented sauces

ChiChi Kitchen

4.8(686)

italian restaurant · CBD

Founded in 2016, ChiChi Kitchen is known for revolutionizing the way people eat and enjoy food. We take pride in our ability to discover the most unique flavors from around the world and share them with the Christchurch area.

648 reviews

The Amore Italian Restaurant

4.8(676)

restaurant · Halswell

Our small and intimate restaurant in Longhurst, Halswell, serves exquisite Italian cuisine and wines in a beautiful modern setting where families are always welcome.

authentic italian cuisine family-friendly dining fresh pasta

676 reviews

HIBACHI Restaurant

4.7(668)

japanese restaurant · Riccarton

Reviewers consistently praise the amazing food quality, particularly the wagyu and seafood, along with a fun dining experience.

323 reviews

C&C Chicken & Cornbread

4.8(652)

meal takeaway · Bexley

C&C-Chicken & Cornbread is a food stall based in Christchurch, New Zealand, specialising in chicken and cornbread.

american cuisine cornbread fried chicken

275 reviews

artisan cheeses chargrilled chargrilled meats

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.

647 reviews

Mugen Sushi (Moorhouse)

4.6(644)

japanese restaurant · Addington

Mugen Sushi is Christchurch's premium pick your own sushi restaurant, offering freshly made sushi and hot foods.

barista coffee freshly made hot foods japanese cuisine

594 reviews

Cameron Japanese Family Restaurant

4.6(640)

japanese restaurant · Hornby

We are trying and trying every day to introduce meat-based Japanese food that Japanese people are eating nowadays rather than traditional Japanese food mainly using fish.

family-style dining japanese cuisine meat-based dishes

604 reviews

aperol spritz bold seasonal dishes curated cocktails

Bar Franco

4.6(622)

italian restaurant · 166 Cashel Street

Bar Franco serves delicious Italian food, curated cocktails and seamless hospitality across two vibrant levels in the heart of Christchurch.

322 reviews

Hoon Hay Thai Restaurant

4.6(590)

thai restaurant · Hillmorton

Hoon Hay Thai Restaurant is known for traditional cuisine with a warm welcoming ambience. We set standards for quality and service through our attention to detail.

asian food authentic thai food fresh herbs

568 reviews

Mama Ree Thai Street Food

4.6(545)

restaurant · Merivale

At Mama Ree we emphasise the balance of flavours, blending aromatic Thai herbs, spicy chilli and fresh ingredients.

aromatic herbs spicy chilli thai street food

507 reviews

bar and grill canterbury beef craft cocktails

The Core Bar & Grill

4.4(512)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

The Core Bar & Grill is Christchurch’s premium casual steakhouse and social bar, specialising in expertly cooked steaks and hand-crafted stone-baked pizzas.

200 reviews

Black Burger

4.6(506)

hamburger restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Our mission is simple; take the finest ingredients and make the best damn cheeseburger in New Zealand.

cheeseburger gourmet burgers new zealand beef

506 reviews

Tomi Japanese Restaurant

4.5(506)

japanese restaurant · 76 Edgeware Road

At Tomi Japanese Restaurant, situated in the Edgeware Village we have a menu to suit every group and appetite, both big and small. Tomi offers our diners and customers a Japanese fusion experience made from seasonal and fresh ingredients that reflect traditional Japanese cuisine.

japanese cuisine japanese fusion ramen

475 reviews

Arlo

4.5(471)

restaurant · Cashmere

Arlo, affectionately known as “everyone’s favourite neighbour,” embodies an elevated, casual, and vibrant atmosphere at the heart of Cashmere Hill.

artisan pizzas elevated casual dining local produce

91 reviews

MoriMori

4.7(437)

japanese restaurant · Sydenham

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly service and delicious, authentic Japanese food, particularly the eel rice bowl.

437 reviews

The Bombay Brasserie

4.9(426)

indian restaurant · Richmond

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious and flavourful food, generous portions, and great service.

426 reviews

brunch mediterranean cuisine mediterranean dining

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.

418 reviews

Fire And Slice Woodfired Pizzeria

4.8(404)

pizza restaurant · Sumner

Fire & Slice is passionate about creating the perfect wood fired pizza using the freshest locally-sourced ingredients.

artisan pizza buffalo mozzarella canterbury cuisine

386 reviews

low-intervention winemaking organic vegetables organic wine

Gatherings Restaurant

4.7(382)

restaurant · Merivale

Gatherings is an intimate dining room led by Chef Alex Davies, focusing on seasonal ingredients and the shared act of dining.

382 reviews

american cuisine family-friendly dining handcrafted cocktails

Texas Grill Christchurch

4.8(378)

bar and grill · Christchurch Central City

Texas Grill is where Southern soul meets Kiwi flavour — a bold, wood-fired bar and grill in the heart of Christchurch.

378 reviews

Sakura Japanese Cuisine

4.7(373)

japanese restaurant · Upper Riccarton

Sakura Kitchen aims to provide wholesome Japanese food crafted with passion, for utmost authenticity and originality. Since the first day we opened our doors in 2011, we have been a traditional Japanese cuisine restaurant.

authentic japanese food traditional japanese cuisine wholesome japanese food

373 reviews

charcuterie dairy-free options fine dining

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.

354 reviews

Quad Eatery

4.7(331)

cafe · Christchurch Central City

Enjoy organic Kokako coffee and fresh brunch at Quad Eatery. Visit our dog-friendly café in the Christchurch Arts Centre Clock Tower today.

all-day brunch artisan coffee breakfast

331 reviews

Kenzo Japanese Restaurant

4.6(330)

japanese restaurant · Ferrymead

High-end, creative Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist & inventive sushi rolls.

japanese cuisine oysters sashimi

312 reviews

Saigon Sister Riccarton

4.4(316)

vietnamese restaurant · Riccarton

Reviewers consistently praise the authentic Vietnamese cuisine and the friendly service, highlighting the delicious flavours.

91 reviews

Thonglor Thai Restaurant Christchurch

4.6(315)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Welcome to Thonglor Thai Restaurant, your destination for authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of the city. We bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table, offering a culinary journey that celebrates the rich traditions and unique tastes of Thai cooking.

aromatic stir-fries authentic thai cuisine savory curries

224 reviews

basque cheesecake fresh ingredients local ingredients

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.

132 reviews

Noodle Monk - Thai Street Kitchen

4.4(289)

thai restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Soulful and flavoursome Thai streetfood with an assortment of Asian lagers and local wine run by locals.

asian lagers local wine thai street food

289 reviews

Ramen Miyako

4.7(277)

japanese restaurant · Upper Riccarton

We are ramen specialists. Providing authentic Japanese ramen.

authentic japanese ramen

267 reviews

Steampunk Laboratory

4.8(257)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Steampunk Laboratory is a vibrant Asian fusion restaurant located in Christchurch, offering a unique dining experience.

asian fusion

232 reviews

The Grill House

4.5(257)

restaurant · Riccarton

Reviewers consistently praise the generous portion sizes, amazing flavours, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot.

257 reviews

Ancient Lanzhou Beef Noodles 上古金城兰州牛面+正宗兰州美食

4.4(248)

chinese noodle restaurant · Riccarton

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious, handmade noodles and the friendly, helpful staff. The restaurant is noted for its great prices and comfortable atmosphere.

248 reviews

fajitas fried chicken mexican takeaway

LONDO

4.8(236)

restaurant · Merivale

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

236 reviews

Mi Amor Mexican Cantina

4.7(214)

meal takeaway · Shirley

Mi Amor the Mexican takeaway restaurant has just the thing for you! You can now try our tasty food the tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and more.

214 reviews

dainty

4.5(204)

cafe · Christchurch Central City

dainty is a brunch and coffee cafe in the heart of Christchurch, specializing in Melbourne style brunch and specialty coffee.

melbourne style brunch seasonal ingredients specialty coffee

116 reviews

Xolo

4.9(197)

mexican restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Welcome to Xolo, where we celebrate the vibrant flavours and rich traditions of Mexican cuisine!

artisan churros fresh ceviche mexican cocktails

197 reviews

BB Vietnamese Street Food

4.8(166)

vietnamese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

BB Vietnamese Street Food offers an authentic taste of Vietnam in the heart of Christchurch, specialising in traditional Vietnamese street food.

aromatic spices authentic vietnamese cuisine fresh flavours

166 reviews

Mexigrill

4.7(154)

mexican restaurant · Richmond

MEXIGRILL the Mexican takeaway restaurant has just the thing for you! You can now try our tasty food.

burritos fajitas fried chicken

148 reviews

dining bar european cuisine fresh pasta

Ciao

4.5(152)

restaurant · Christchurch Central City

Ciao is more than a dining bar; it’s a cosy neighbourhood spot inspired by the best of European cuisine.

77 reviews

omi sushi

4.8(147)

japanese restaurant · Merivale

Reviewers consistently praise the fresh, high-quality sushi and the friendly, accommodating staff.

147 reviews

Lillies

4.7(144)

restaurant · Phillipstown

Reviewers consistently praise the amazing pizza and the constantly updating menu, making it a favourite spot for many.

144 reviews

Rollicious Vietnamese Streetfood & Catering

4.8(132)

vietnamese restaurant · Christchurch Central City

We're passionate about bringing fresh, healthy, and delicious Vietnamese food to your table.

fresh ingredients fresh vietnamese food healthy options

127 reviews

Spice Mantra Belfast

4.8(129)

restaurant · Belfast

Reviewers consistently praise the amazing and flavourful food, along with exceptional and friendly service.

117 reviews

May’s Thai (AKA Tarn’s Kitchen) on Wairakei Rd

4.8(128)

thai restaurant · Bryndwr

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious, flavourful food and the friendly, attentive service.

128 reviews