Francesca's Italian Kitchen Christchurch
Monday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Tuesday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Wednesday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Thursday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Friday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Saturday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Sunday12:00 – 2:30 pm, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Pizza, pasta, tiramisu – all staples of a cuisine we know and love: cucina Italiana. But considering Aotearoa lies a cool 18,527 kilometres away from Italy, it can be hard to know if we really do know what authentic Italian food is. Enter Francesca’s Kitchen with a third generation Head Chef from Italy. Serving a big ol’ slice of authentic, rustic Italian cuisine and hospitality in the heart of the garden city.
Speaking of big ol’ slices – perhaps one of the most exciting features of this beautiful venue positioned next to Christchurch’s beautiful Isaac Theatre Royal is the woodfired pizza oven which sits at centre stage and pumps out chewy, crusty, perfectly charred pizzas for diners to enjoy.
Alongside these glorious disks of dough, Francesca’s menu offers a full Italian feast starting with antipasti, primi and insalata (first and salad), pasta and mains and ending on a sweet note with their dolci selection. Each of these menu sections is brimming with memorable dishes such as polenta fries with truffle aioli, housemade potato gnocchi with braised beef cheek and tiramisu with housemade mascarpone and fresh seafood served with housemade squid ink pasta – just to name a few.
On the drinks front, Francesca’s Italian Kitchen strikes the perfect balance of Italian and local wine and beer, an extensive range of spirits and cocktails and Allpress coffee for those perfect post-meal espressos – in true Italian fashion.
Whether you’re after a perfect woodfired pizza and prosecco before a visit to the theatre, a light lunch or a feast with friends, Francesca’s Italian Kitchen will not disappoint. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, this authentic spot is bound to have you saying “si,si!” to another visit. Just make sure you book ahead.
Words by Jane Lyons & Photography by Ashleigh Vermaak
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
149 Gloucester St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
Nearby Places
CoCA
CoCA is a slick and ultra-modern art gallery space in the centre of Christchurch.
The Church Pub
The Church on the corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets in the heart of the city is a cornerstone of Christchurch hospitality.
RUBY Christchurch
Timeless, beautiful and instantly recognisable, Ruby is one of New Zealand’s favourite brands.
Tūranga
It’s not often that grand designs are plucked from the mind’s eye and brought to life. At Tūranga they are, every day.
Similar Places
Tussock Hill Vineyard
The long and winding road up to Tussock Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door is as inconspicuous as it is rewarding.
Bohemian Bakery Central City
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.
Kinji
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with Irasshaimase, a traditional Japanese welcome, and immediately feel transported to another continent. If you’re after an authentic Japanese dining experience with truly exceptional cuisine then you need to book a table at Kinji and do it soon.
Sumner Post Office
Restored to glory and proudly standing on Nayland Street, Sumner Post Office is the neighbourhood’s new favourite place to eat, drink, and give back to the community...
Featured in
Dine Out on the Neat Places’ Team's Restaurant Picks
Featured in
‘03 Pizza Devotees: Your Guide To The Best Spots in Christchurch
