In a city that is constantly reinventing itself, Christchurch has seen a host of new and exciting brunch spots open up in recent years. Known for its resilient spirit and impressive rebuild following the devastating 2011 earthquake, this southern New Zealand city offers a tempting mixing pot of places to wake and break your fast. For locals and travellers alike, here are brunch christchurch a few unmissable discoveries you must consider for your next brunch rendezvous.
First on the list is ‘Hello Sunday’, a five-time winner of the Christchurch Hospitality Awards for Best Café. Nestled in a charming 19th-century Sunday school building, this café combines old-world elegance with modern comfort. Their menu changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh, locally sourced produce in every dish. Their brioche French toast and salmon hash have acquired a loyal following among locals, and their array of locally roasted coffee blends makes this a must-visit spot.
Superior brunching can also be found in the heart of Christchurch at the inner-city hotspot ‘Unknown Chapter’. Its sleek, stylish décor with wood-tiled floors and steel-tipped lighting is chic and contemporary. The meticulously crafted menu includes brunch classics with a twist, like smashed avocado on grilled sourdough with herb ricotta, and the sumptuous slow-cooked brisket benedict. From detailed latte art to their rage of artisan loose-leaf teas, it’s clear they take their beverages seriously.
Away from the city centre, nestled in the suburban Merivale neighbourhood, is the ‘The Villas’. Housed in a quaint colonial Villa, this café is filled with old-world charm and homemade deliciousness. They have a fantastic all-day breakfast menu offering everything from homemade granola to the Villas hash and the infamous bacon butty. The garden setting provides a tranquil spot for sipping coffees amidst lush greenery.
Another popular choice right in the middle of the city is ‘Bunsen’. Located in the newly restored Arts Centre, this café is quickly developing a reputation for excellence. Known for their house-made bread and pastries, their menu offerings range from classic eggs benedict to more adventurous dishes like the jalapeno cornbread waffle.
And finally, the creative hotspot of Lyttelton provides the perfect home for ‘Lyttelton Coffee Company’. This café-slash-roastery has helped reinvigorate the coastal township’s main street and is fondly referred to as the community’s lounge room. Best known for their ethically sourced, meticulously roasted beans, they also serve up a simplicity-focused food menu. Overnight oats, avocado toast, and French pastries lead the breakfast charge, with the lunch menu leaning into heartier eats.
Christchurch’s brunch scene is a testament to its ever-evolving cityscape, proving that the Garden City is a gourmand’s paradise. From delectable pastries to innovative menu items, and of course, world-class coffee, Christchurch has set a high standard for brunch spots. If you’re a brunch aficionado or simply a lover of good food and coffee, consider these spots on your next trip to this vibrant city, you will not be disappointed.