Dhi Ferrari Cakes

If a craving for something sweet strikes and you’re near The Welder in Christchurch’s city centre, you must immediately seek out Dhi Ferrari Cakes. Owned and operated by Brazilian chocolatier Dhi Ferrari, this pâtisserie has quickly garnered a reputation for producing some of the most delicious desserts in the ‘03.

Dhi’s background and resume are impressive, studying at both French and Italian culinary schools, and going on to have his own culinary school and pastry shop, not to mention winning a food competition on Brazilian TV and being recognised as a top three pastry chef in Rio de Janeiro. He brings all of this experience plus time working at other beloved Christchurch businesses such as Sweet Soul Pâtisserie and She Chocolates, and you can taste it in every bite.

The pâtisserie in The Welder is the perfect place to grab a slice of cake to share (or not!) with a friend and take advantage of the ample seating around. Or you might want to quickly stop in and pick up some desserts for later in the day, and if you plan ahead and order, there are some show-stopping whole cakes that will feed a crowd. The cabinet of sweet masterpieces is enticing and does make for a hard decision, as you contemplate your choices you can watch Dhi hard at work in the production kitchen behind the counter.

The cakes and desserts are all influenced by Brazilian flavours Dhi grew up with and hold a special place in his heart, along with French and Italian influences from his training. Everything is made from scratch by Dhi, from the decadent ganache fillings to the delicate chocolate decorations. You even have the chance to learn some of these skills too, with Dhi offering a variety of small group classes in his kitchen. From holiday-themed to specific skills, Dhi is passionate about sharing his love of baking with the people of Ōtautahi.

Whether you’re feeling like a slice of Chocolate Thunder Cake complete with a chocolate milk caramel filling, a seasonal eclair or a Brazilian caramel flan, there’s sure to be a dessert for everyone at Dhi Ferrari Cakes in Christchurch’s The Welder.