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As the largest city in the south island, Christchurch can offer the widest selection of restaurants with an emphasis on Pacific Rim cuisine. You will also find a good selection of ethnic restaurants or pub grub to suit your fancy. It is hardly worth going beyond the centre around Cathedral Square to find somewhere interesting. If you want to mix ambience and good dining then the strip is the place to be along Oxford Terrace where you can have your pick of eateries that offer street side seating overlooking the river Avon. The area also provides after dinner entertainment with clubs and live venues starting up after hours. Interesting alternatives are the historic 1905 electric tramcar where you can dine as the tram does a circuit of the centre of the city or the gondola restaurant up on Mt Cavendish at sunset. Michael's Restaurant, High Street, (tel 03 366 0822). A discreet and romantic restaurant run by renowned Michael Lee Richards. Prices to match. Le Bon Bolli, (tel. 03 374 9444). Started by award-winning restaurateur, Phillip Kraal, this is a two for one deal where you can enjoy a more laid back style down stairs and pay less or you can go upstairs and upmarket and watch the world go by as you sample award winning cuisine. Prices not as high as you'd expect but if you have to ask..... Options outside of the centre are: Aikmans, 154 Aikmans Rd, Merivale. This is a relaxed café style that does a variety of dishes and while reasonably priced it is more of a lunch and early dinner hangout. Bologna, 6 Papanui Rd (tel 03/379 7497). A small Italian restaurant with excellent Italian dishes and desserts and no waiting but you do have to bring your own bottle, not a problem as there is an off license across the street. Brigitte's Espresso/Wine Bar, Hawkesbury Building, Aikmans Rd, Merivale. This a lovely place to spend an evening sitting out in the courtyard and enjoying the mix of Mediterranean and local food all at wonderfully low prices.. Brewers Arms, 177 Papanui Rd, Merivale. This is an English style pub with good pub grub and great value for money to accompany the vast range of beers. Kannigas Thai, 18a Papanui Rd (tel 03/355 6228). Terrific Thai food restaurant and the low prices make up for the lack of atmosphere. Non license so you need to bring your own drink. |