Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, is a paradise for food lovers with its diverse culinary scene. Its stunning landscape invites long weekend stays, which would be incomplete without participation in the iconic Kiwi tradition of brunch. As part of its ongoing transformation following the 2011 earthquake, Christchurch continues to build an unmistakably alluring brunch culture guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning foodie. Here is a delectable guide to some of the phenomenal brunch spots in Christchurch.
First up is C1 Espresso, an innovative and popular haunt set in the old Post Office on High Street. Known for its retro-futuristic vibe, sliding doors and secret corridors, it has also gained fame for its quirky delivery of food through pneumatic tubes that transport meals directly to your table! But the true star of this gastronomical wonderland is the food. The menu boasts sumptuous options from a classic eggs benedict to more inventive choices like Korean BBQ Beef or the countless variations on the avocado toast theme.
Another must-visit destination for brunch is the award-winning Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters. Located on St Asaph Street, it’s hard to pass by without being lured in by the irresistible aroma of their freshly roasted coffee. Their menu is predominantly locally sourced, with intriguing items like homemade granola with Greek yoghurt or Crispy potato rosti topped with poached eggs, salmon, and hollandaise sauce on offer. The artisan bakery section filled with freshly baked pastries and bread further elevates the brunch experience.
If you prefer a coastal view with your late-morning meal, head to the Sumner suburb to visit the Ocean Café and Bar Scarborough. With its stunning location perched atop Scarborough Hill, you can brunch christchurch enjoy breathtaking sights over Pegasus Bay as you indulge in their scrumptious brunch offerings. Savour delicacies like pancetta-wrapped chicken with salad or enjoy a lighter option like their vegan-friendly lentil patties.
Head back into the city centre to visit The Monday Room, a fantastic brunch spot which looks like it stepped right out of a Pinterest board. The cafe exudes a relaxed atmosphere, where patrons can lounge on plush vintage sofas while enjoying their French toast with berry compote, vanilla mascarpone, and maple syrup. Its quirky motto “Dessert for Breakfast, Wine for Lunch” very much encapsulates a visit to this eatery.
Finally, no foodie’s brunch journey would be complete without a visit to the Roots restaurant in Lyttelton Harbour. Nominated for multiple awards each year since its opening, Roots focuses on a sustainable and seasonal menu that changes weekly based on the area’s fresh produce availability. Their brunch menu, though atypical, is equally delectable with dishes like rhubarb with shortbread and cream or scallops with fermented garlic and parsnip.
In Christchurch, brunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – a delightful blend of flavours, culture, and community. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, there’s always a new spot to discover, a new taste to savour. So why not take a bite out of Christchurch this weekend and satisfy your inner foodie with its spectacular brunch offerings.