Ciao

Ciao is the kind of place that makes you want to linger — over a perfectly made negroni, a bowl of fresh pasta, or simply the feeling that you’ve stumbled across a little slice of Europe in the heart of Christchurch.

Set in the middle of The Welder and brought to life by hospitality duo Nikki and Toby Eaton (of Kokomo and Rascal fame), Ciao brings all the spirit and charm of a neighbourhood eatery to the inner city. Open daily from morning espresso to late-night cocktails, it shifts effortlessly from a casual daytime deli to an atmospheric evening destination.

By day, the sleek glass cabinet is filled with indulgent baked goods that pair beautifully with a strong coffee, alongside toasties made with fresh house-made bread. Vibrant plates of spaghetti are a lunchtime favourite – made more attractive by Ciao’s $12 weekday express lunch, which also includes toasties, scoops of tiramisu, and glasses of Grillo wine. As if we needed another excuse to ‘forget’ our packed lunch tomorrow.

Come nightfall, the lights dim, the cocktail and wine list takes centre stage, and tables fill with modern plates inspired by the best of European cuisine – with a soft spot for Italian flavours. Dig into super-sized arancini, perfectly cooked meats, fresh pastas, seasonal salads, plenty of focaccia with ample butter, and more.

Whether it’s a midweek dinner with your besties, a date night, or a non-boring work lunch, Ciao is here to inject continental charm into your everyday life.