Downstairs Bar






Monday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Tuesday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Wednesday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Thursday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Friday4:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Saturday4:00 pm – 1:00 am.
SundayClosed.
What do you get when you marry the cosy vibes of an intimate pub with the sophistication of an inner city wine bar? You end up with the best of both worlds and the result is Downstairs on New Regent Street.
With an ever-changing food menu and wine selection, welcoming space and chic interior, it is quite easy to spend an entire afternoon or evening in this aptly appointed ‘wine pub’.
New Regent Street is no stranger to hospitality venues picking a specialisation and excelling at it. After all, Downstairs is the sister venue to Twenty Seven Steps, a beloved central city restaurant that is known for its modern and sophisticated approach to dining. Owners Emma and Paul, have taken this same tact with Downstairs and their passion for excellent service and creating an atmosphere that is full of old-world charm is apparent in every detail here.
What strikes you when you first walk up to the bar is the blackboard advertising an extensive list of wines by the glass. On any given day there are about 40 different glass pours on offer and the Downstairs philosophy on what they serve is quite simple - “it’s always wines we like made or sold by people we like”. With this approach, there’s always something new to try from both local and international labels and a range of styles from champagne to pet nat’s, traditional classics and funky naturals.
Once you’ve settled on your pour of choice, peruse the food menu, where the focus is on celebrating local ingredients and making them shine on the plate. Whether you’re after something snacky like an antipasto platter or something more hearty like the slow braise of the night, there is the perfect pairing to be found for your wine.
Open Wednesday - Saturdays, make this warm and inviting spot part of your regular after-work or weekend catch up routine.
Words by Julia Rutherford & Photography by Nancy Zhou
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Location
16/22 New Regent St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
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