Oulala Wine Bar

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. This is certainly true of Oulala French Delicacy, an authentic slice of France found in Ferrymead. Opened in 2023 by Romain Sehili, Oulala is an homage to all things quintessentially French and after one visit it will no doubt become a regular fixture in your date night rotation.

Owner Romain is originally from Toulouse in the south of France and when he first moved to Christchurch he missed the neighbourhood wine bars that were at the centre of so many social gatherings and good times. To remedy this there was only one solution… to open Oulala of course! 

Showcasing exclusively French wines there are over 300 varieties to choose from plus an additional 200 available from the cellar. These are a part of Romain’s personal wine collection, holding special sentimental value as they were inherited from his grandfather. Romain travelled extensively all around France’s wine regions to source the very best bottles and he has developed great relationships with the winemakers. Each week there are different wines you can order by the glass or opt for a bottle, the great thing about Oulala is they have an off licence so you can take the bottle home with you. And for any non-wine drinkers never fear there’s something for you at Oulala too, with a selection of quality New Zealand craft beers on top and an extensive range of French spirits stocked behind the bar. 

The space itself is intimate and inviting with wine bottles lining the wall as you walk in the front door, waiting to tempt and pique your interests. No detail has been spared in the decor; with the porcelain bar top coming from Limoges in France, the glassware and bar stools have also been imported from France and there are vintage French posters adorning the walls.   

As you take in the ambience of Oulala and enjoy your first sips of wine, attention must be paid to the food on offer. During the evenings there is a selection of share plates that change each day and are determined by the produce available at the markets and from local suppliers. Or you can opt for one of the platters that showcase another of France’s greatest exports, cheese. Romain also owns Fromagerie by Oulala (a quick 5 minute walk across the street) and with 84 different types, you can be guaranteed to try something interesting and authentically French. The pièce de résistance on the food front is Sunday lunch and is not to be missed, with three leisurely courses, it’s a chance to sit back, relax and have a good catch-up with whoever you're dining with. Exciting things are coming with the arrival of both a Michelin-star chef and a Michelin-star pâtissier to the team, and Friday tea will be starting soon.

Oulala French Delicacy is not merely about serving excellent wine, which of course they do so well, it’s about providing an authentic French experience for all who walk through their doors. It’s about extending your wine knowledge and introducing you to varieties you may not have tried before, tasting the best in French cuisine and taking time out of your busy day to enjoy great company.