Where to Eat: Christchurch, NZ
Most people making the journey down to McMurdo Station in Antarctica must first travel to Christchurch, New Zealand in order to receive their gear and their pre-Antarctic training. It’s not unusual for those making their way down to the ice to be “stranded” in Christchurch for at least a few days as an aging fleet of military cargo planes and the need for optimal weather conditions makes delays more common than not. My trip down to McMurdo in late September 2019 was no exception as delay after delay gave us the opportunity to explore Christchurch for a little under a week.
During our time there, we received a daily stipend set by the US State Department for things like food and transportation. This stipend can fluctuate, but at the time I was there the daily stipend for people in Christchurch was $119 (NZ$190). With more than enough of the government’s money to eat like a king, I was able to try out several restaurants around the city and this guide contains the ones I highly recommend!
Coriander’s
The quickly growing Indian population in Christchurch has led to several Indian restaurants to pop up throughout the city.
Coriander’s not only has the best Indian food I had in Christchurch, but possibly has the best Indian food I’ve had period.
Friendly warning: the food is SPICY! Consider ordering a level of heat lower than what you’re used to.
Caffeine Laboratory
This small breakfast joint found next door to the Isaac Theatre was easily my favorite spot for breakfast in the city.
During my time in Christchurch, my friend Jessica and I tried every item on their breakfast menu between the both of us.
The servings of coffee are a little small but I’m used to the massive coffees from Dunkin’ Donuts so that’s probably on me.
The Little Fiddle
Tucked away in an alley off of Oxford Terrace, The Little Fiddle goes beyond typical Irish cuisine, serving elevated sports’ pub fare such as Wagyu beef burgers, mac and cheese bites, and grilled squid salad.
Its extensive drinks menu includes a wide selection of New Zealand’s world famous wines and a long list of Irish whiskeys.
Pot Sticker Dumpling Bar
The dumplings that this place is named for are phenomenal but, in my opinion, the baos are where it’s at.
If you can’t decide which dumpling or bao you want to try, Pot Sticker Dumpling Bar’s mix and match menu (6 for $NZ 11) lets you try them all or pig out on a bunch of the same variety.
C1 Espresso
The retro-theme of the dining area is complimented by the old-school pneumatic tubes that run throughout the entire dining area, delivering food right to your table at 85 mph (140 kph).
C1 is probably most well known for their wide selection of coffee, including a variety of their own custom blends, sometimes incorporating flavors like turmeric, ginger, and beetroot.
O.G.B Bar & Cocktail Bar
An old speak-easy style bar serving up craft cocktails prepared by bartenders wearing newsboy flat caps and bowler hats, suspenders and matching striped collarless shirts.
Their food menu offers wonderful dishes like sticky braised beef ribs, slow cooked pork sandwiches, and warm duck breast salad.
Little India
If you find yourself near the airport in Christchurch like I was on multiple occasions, Little India is a fantastic place to get a bite to eat.
I honestly can’t stop gushing over how good the Indian food is throughout Christchurch and Little India is no exception. With great prices and speedy service, this is a great place to grab lunch if you’re on a work break.
Mrs. Higgins’ Oven Fresh Cookies
I am not someone with a huge sweet tooth, but whenever the mood strikes, few things hit the spot for me like a good cookie, and the ones at Mrs. Higgins’ are phenomenal.
With a variety of different cookie choices ranging from traditional chocolate chip, to red velvet, to raspberry white chocolate, there is something for everyone.
Smash Palace
As a basic-ass American, sometimes I just want a cheeseburger. Even when I’m in another country. It’s ok if you judge me. I don’t blame you.
Smash Palace was there to give me my fix. Serving up what some argue is the best burger in the city (possibly in the entire country), this eatery is one you don’t want to miss. Their beer selection is pretty great too.
Twenty Seven Steps
Easily one of the best fine dining restaurants in the city, Twenty Seven Steps has a beautiful dining room. Its small and elegant menu allows them to really focus on each dish.
If you’re from the US, make sure to take advantage of the America-favorable exchange rate and really treat yourself (especially if the government is picking up the tab).