Where You'd Rather Be: The Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Christchurch

A restaurant that would contend with even the best of Barcelona’s contemporary dining scene, Odeon is the most beautiful place to enjoy an elevated Andalusian-inspired feast. Head chef and owner Shafeeq Ismail draws on his experience in kitchens across the globe to create a seasonal menu that is hit after hit. Sip on a range of Spanish wines while you work away at a few delicious tapas or opt for the “Just Feed Me” to try a bit of everything.

A long-standing institution of Ōtautahi, Vesuvio has been a popular wine bar destination for yonks – with a few swish renovations along the way. Set up amongst the buzz of the central courtyard or find a cosy pocket inside to enjoy local or international wines, Spanish-inspired tapas, and a bit of live jazz on the side.

When you’re craving all the Spanish classics, you’ll find a friend in Castro’s. Sitting on the top floor of Riverside Market, there’s always a lively buzz about the place to make for an atmospheric dining experience. Settle in for an evening of sangria, authentic paella, and endless tapas (obviously) to momentarily satisfy your wanderlust. Oh, and don’t mind the resident bull. He’s friendly.

If you’ve been on a desperate hunt for proper pizza straight from the streets of Naples, you’ll be tickled by the arrival of Bomba in Lyttelton (we most certainly are). Each dough is handmade by owner Ed Monteschio, who lovingly tops them with San Marzano tomatoes and Fior di Latte before giving them a quick dip in the 450 degree oven. The result? A puffy crust and thin base that is perfect in flavour and texture. For the full Napoli experience, ordering the Marinara is non-negotiable.

Ciao is a neighbourhood eatery in the heart of Christchurch, inspired by some of the tastiest pockets to be found in Europe. And while they go beyond just Italian food, we want to take a moment to appreciate their perfectly made negronis, strong espressos, bowls of fresh pasta, scoops of tiramisu and much more that will transport you to a cobblestone street in Bologna or Bari.

A spritz and negroni bar on one floor, a lavish restaurant space on the next. Bar Franco is well set up for loud, lively and delicious dining experiences that would make the Italians very proud. The dishes are generous and perfect for sharing – from a rich Risotto Milanese to a very puffy Miele Pizetta. Focaccia on the table is a must, and the tiramisu is a finale you shouldn’t skip.

When we think of Italian hospitality, we think warm and welcoming – with plenty of elegance on the side. So naturally, we’re big fans of escaping to Earl for a taste of the European lifestyle. While it’s always a great day to pop in, head along to Pasta Night Tuesdays to experience a weekly pasta special that’ll take you from Rome to Palermo. 

Sharing the neighbourhood with Isaac Theatre Royal, it’s no surprise Francesca’s Italian Kitchen is a much-loved pre-theatre destination. Ticket holder or not, this restaurant puts on a show of classic Italian dishes that celebrate local ingredients. The menu is full of crowd pleasers, so pick up a slice of pizza, twirl your fork into a bowl of handmade pasta or enjoy a big scoop of tiramisu as your final act.

Since 2001, Ōtautahi locals have been treated to their own little slice of Italy down Tuam Street. A specialty grocer and restaurant in one, Mediterranean Foods is home to an abundance of directly imported Italian ingredients, from every type of pasta to tinned tomatoes (they really do just taste better), cured meats, cheeses and more. Find something for your own pantry or stick around for lunchtime pizza and a spritz at the café.

Bringing a taste of France to Ferrymead, Oulala channels the charm of Toulouse’s neighbourhood wine bars, the hometown of owner Romain Sehili. The wine list is exclusively French – and therefore reliably delicious – with 300 varieties on offer (plus another 200 tucked away in the cellar). Drop by to discover something new each week, and pair your glass with a selection of French cheeses while you’re at it. With an off-licence available too, you can take home a bottle to add to your own collection.

This city is blessed to be home to a batch of bakers transforming flour and water into pure magic. There’s nothing that makes us feel more Euro chic than heading to the bakery on a Sunday morning, popping a baguette under our arm and unfurling a glossy pain aux raisins. Grizzly, Bellbird, Bohemian Bakery, Blue Moon Bakehouse and Fluffy Bake Shop are a few of our go-tos for great bread and pastries. 

Sometimes, an occasion calls for mirror glazes, mousse and meringue. Just like in the breathtaking shop windows of Paris, there are plenty of places to find almost-too-good-to-eat treats in Christchurch. Head to J’aime les Macarons for a luxurious box of macarons, BUTTER for intricate tarts and petit fours (don’t miss the caneles), and Sweet Soul Patisserie for desserts that belong in the Louvre.

If you’re already privy to this family-run restaurant, you’ll know exactly why it’s got everyone talking. One of our favourite go-tos for a cheap and extra cheerful group dinner, Spartan recreates the warm experience of a traditional Greek taverna. Get your fix of pita, skordalia, moussaka, lamb souvlaki and everything else you’d expect to find next to whitewashed walls and blue domes.

A recent addition to the New Regent Street family, Mashawe adds some serious punch to the pastel neighbourhood. With a name that literally translates to ‘barbecue’, you’ll find plenty of smokey meats, as well as fresh and delicious Greek souvlakis and Middle Eastern dishes. Great for a quick takeaway option, casual pre-show dinner or mezze meet-up with friends.