Evil Genius

Bars key icon. Cafes key icon. Restaurants key icon.
Bars key icon. Cafes key icon. Restaurants key icon.

MondayClosed.

TuesdayClosed.

Wednesday12:00 – 9:00 pm.

Thursday12:00 – 9:00 pm.

Friday12:00 – 10:00 pm.

Saturday12:00 – 10:00 pm.

Sunday12:00 – 9:00 pm.

unit 2/1091 Ferry Road, Ferrymead, Christchurch

03 260 1002

Evil Genius Bar & Lair is one of Ferrymead’s worst-kept secrets. Open Wednesday to Sunday from noon ’til way past dusk, the intimate space offers relaxed dining, choice beverages and an epic lineup of live entertainment. Pop in for a leisurely lunch, end the day with a casual sunset dinner or meet your best wine-drinking buddy here for a glass or two.

The super tasty Asian fusion menu is loaded with generous tapas-style plates, perfect for sharing. Evil Fried Chicken is a definite crowd-pleaser and tasty vegan alternatives mean no one ever has to miss out on yummy fried goodness. Genius. If you’re after a quick caffeine kick, they’ve got you covered, courtesy of Lyttelton roaster Spook Haus beans. It’s one of the only spots to score a Spook Haus brew on this side of the hill.

This owner-operated joint makes a point of supporting other local companies. Lyttelton-based Ellabobella Design is behind the branding and colour concept, along with the stunning botanic-style interior crafted by Freya Floral, creating a lush and welcoming atmosphere. Fresh produce and meats are sourced from local suppliers, Lyttel Ninja Kombucha and Whistling Buoy wine come from just over the hill, as well as award-winning selections from Canterbury's Silver Wing Wines. Enjoy craft beers on tap from local brewery Cassels & Sons, or select from a fridge stocked with offerings from Punky Brewster, a local craft beer supplier.

Resident DJs Mat Hoods and Willy Styles spin tunes most weekends, while Sundays in summer bring live music and Little Wax pop-ups to the outdoor courtyard. The newly opened event space, 'The Lair,' hosts private and commercial events, seasonal markets, and festivals celebrating food, wine, music, and art. To see what’s coming up on the schedule check out Evil Genius’s socials, and head to their website to enquire about venue hire for private functions.

No matter when you visit Evil Genius, you’re in for a treat. Enjoy stunning crowd-free views of Ihutai, the Avon-Heathcote Estuary, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with eclectic music tended by friendly staff. Next time you’re heading from the city to the beach, add Evil Genius to your destination list.

Words by Nicola Amy Hinman & Photography by Nancy Zhou and Supplied

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

unit 2/1091 Ferry Road, Ferrymead, Christchurch

Nearby Places

Oulala Wine Bar

The counter at Oulala Wine Bar Ferrymead Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon.

It’s no secret the hospitality scene in Christchurch is thriving, not only in the city centre but far and wide in the suburbs you’ll find some delightful gems.

Trees for Canterbury

Wide view of Trees for Canterbury.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Goods key icon.

Located down a quiet suburban street in Christchurch’s Ferrymead you will find a hidden gem called Trees for Canterbury, a native plant nursery, garden centre and...

Dispense Espresso

Man making coffee behind blue coffee machine at Dispense Espresso in Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon.

Dispense Espresso’s owner, Hamish Bell, knows a thing or two about what makes a café great.

Similar Places

Fresh On Kendal

Fruit and vegetables outside the entrance to Fresh on Kendal Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon. Goods key icon.

Weekly supermarket shops aren’t usually synonymous with peace and calm, but it’s a whole other story at Fresh On Kendal.

The Spirits Workshop

Close up of 4 bottles of gin.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury

Head to The Spirits Workshop in Sydenham for a uniquely New Zealand spirit experience. Here you can sample gins and whiskies that reflect Aotearoa, meet the people that make it and see the whole process, too.

Bohemian Bakery Central City

Brick facade of the Bohemian Bakery.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Goods key icon.

Bohemian Bakery’s second storefront is a cozy enclave filled with the smells and sounds of a traditional bakery, like the ever popular Portuguese tart and crusty loaves.

Black Burger

Close up of someone holding their burger about to take a bite.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Restaurants key icon.

Found in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Christchurch's Riverside Market, is the small but perfectly primed kitchen that Black Burger calls home.