Best International Eats In Ōtautahi Christchurch

If you're in the mood for authentic Chinese food, look no further than Sumner’s Miss Peppercorn. Locally famous for their traditional Sichuan hand pulled noodles, made from scratch dumplings and the unique flavour (and experience) of Szechuan peppercorns throughout their dishes, Miss Peppercorn is the place for flavourful Chinese with a bite. While you visit, why not treat your taste buds to something new? Try the traditional duck head!

Good for: 

Gluten Free options
Traditional dishes (try the duck head) 
Authentic hand pulled noodles

Grab your beret and slip away... to Merivale. J'aime Les Macarons literally translates to 'I love Macarons' in French and boy oh boy do we love these beautiful creations too! Colourful, bright and chewy, these sweet luxurious treats on offer will leave you wanting more.

Light and delicate yet exceptionally satisfying the macarons are made locally with fresh ingredients and seasonal flavours. For those who truly wish to indulge, try the 'Grande Macaron' an upsized salted butter caramel with chunks of dark chocolate ganache. We are salivating already. 

Good for:

Specialty giant macaron 
Parisian chic vibe
Nationwide delivery gift options

Italian food often dances between fine dining and comfort food, and we think Francesca’s Italian Kitchen has nailed that mixture perfectly. Located next to Isaac Theatre Royal, this bustling little place features plenty of candles, intimate table settings, and a wood-fired pizza oven to set the mood.

Come hungry, as you’ll want to experience everything on the menu, from the bruschetta with pan-fried mushroom, pear and gorgonzola salad, and margherita pizza to the housemade potato gnocchi, merino lamb shoulder ragu, and tiramisu. Even better, this spot is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, so everyone can enjoy true Italian hospitality.

Good for:

Homemade gnocchi
Al dentate pasta
Polenta fries to die for

The Afghan Restaurant on Lincoln Road is a bit iconic on the Christchurch foodie scene. Arrive to order but make sure you check the dedicated Facebook group 'Is AFG Open? ' as this restaurant tends to choose their opening hours whenever suits. That novelty is EXACTLY why there are lines of hungry diners out the door and down the street when AFG is open.

Once inside, place your order (your choices are option 1 or 2). Option 1 feeds two people, option 2 feeds four.  We guarantee whichever option you pick, there will be leftovers. AFG's mouthwatering chargrilled kebabs, seasoned rice, homemade house salad and a specialty chicken curry will have you refreshing the Facebook page for days. 

Good for:

Affordable and authentic 
Carnivores dream feed
An easy choice (1 or 2) 

Walk through the heavy wooden doors of Pomeroy’s red brick building and immediately transport yourself to an old English pub. Low ceilings, loud carpet, and varnished wooden bar stools create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and that’s before you’ve even reached the bar.

An overhead, colour-coded chalkboard helps beer aficionados and newbies alike choose from their extensive tap list, or take a punt and ask the bartender for their favourite. If you’re lucky enough to pop in on a night with live music, settle in and enjoy, you’ll be here a while.

Good for:

Traditional cosy pub vibes
Pork crackling by the bowl
Live music

Be sure to arrive hungry as you won't want to miss a single bite on your plate at this vibrant Victoria Street hotspot. Grab sombreros for your squad and start with chips salsa and guac for the table straight away! NOW you can relax and take time to browse the rest of the menu. You can't go wrong with the soft shell tacos or crispy fired potato skins. The thought of the sticky beef quesadilla has us drooling already...

Tender and juicy, drizzled with syrup to balance the salty spice, the Mexicano's fried chicken will become your new staple. It's ordered by nearly every table and is delicious. The grilled corn is also a must try but is only available in season. 

Good for:

Sangria
Sombreros
Fried Chicken

Tucked away in the Edgeware Village, Tomi Japanese is as authentic as it gets. Opened by a seasoned chef with his wife and her father, Tomi emphasises family values and weaves them into their passionate, authentic Japanese dishes. With sashimi, sushi, and homemade flavoured ice creams stealing the show, you’ll find indulgence at every turn.

Set in a quiet, authentic-style space, you’ll experience Japanese hospitality to its highest quality - and just wait until you try the sake.

Good for:

Sake!
Home made ice cream
Authentic, fresh Japanese

The name El Quincho comes from the term Argentinians use to describe the outdoor corner of every home where Argentinians come together to come together, cook asado, and share it with those they love.

While we’re miles away from South America, the team behind El Quincho brings the spirit to Riverside Market. Dishing up feasts such as the Quincho Parrillada, empanadas, and even burgers, you can watch the masters on the grill as you wait.

Good for:

PROVOLETA (grilled cheese) need we say more
Watch meat grill before your eyes
Beef n Chips (must try!)