Warm Your Winter Soul at the Cosiest Places in Christchurch

Treat yourself to a lazy afternoon in the Waipara hills with a glass of wine and chef-prepared food at Black Estate. Known for their organic and biodynamic wines, you’ll be able to wile away the day in their cosy seating area, complete with a wood-burning fire. Famous for their lunches, all their food is locally sourced and organic, playing to the strengths and bounty of the Cantabrian seasons. The family-owned vibe is evident throughout with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, and the stunning vineyard views will keep you in your seat a bit longer.

A favourite for weekend brunches among the Christchurch locals, Miro doesn’t skimp on the season’s cosy vibes. With two log-burning fires and an intimate space nestled into a historic building on Christchurch’s Oxford terrace, you’ll revel in the friendly service and long list of warming drinks - some alcoholic! With classic favourites like a Miro Benedict to inspired additions like the House Smoked Salmon Waffle, you’ll be ready to sink your teeth into something hearty - and healthy - perched on your art-deco inspired chair. 

Taking a winter trip out to Govenor’s Bay may seem counterintuitive, but trust us when we say the Ōtoromiro Hotel is exactly what you’re looking for. The sun-soaked deck overlooks Lyttelton Harbour, providing the perfect place to perch for a lingering brunch. If the outdoors are too much to bear, cosy up to Ōtoromiro’s open fire and snug bar, complete with a pool table, giant chessboard, foosball table, jukebox, and collection of board games. Seasonal gastropub fare shines on the menu, as well as award-winning wines, and plenty of craft beers to tickle your fancy. If you’re charmed enough to stay, enquire about the Ōtoromiro Hotel’s seaside guest rooms and wake up with stunning views.

The portside town of Lyttelton does a cosy winter’s evening well. Start at Lyttelton Coffee Co., where you can escape the cold at this local favourite with a warming fire and triple shot coffees. Once the caffeine has set in and you’re feeling toasty, follow your nose closer to the harbour, where you’ll find Sherpa Kai on the corner of Oxford Street. You’ll walk down the steps into this nearly underground spot and immediately feel like you’re transported to another place, or time. If you’re lucky enough to grab a spot by the fire, linger over the menu of comforting Nepalese-inspired food and order plenty to share. With a worldly feel and small space, you’ll start to defrost from the cold in no time. Finally, head back to London Street to enjoy a night cap at Civil & Naval. Again, another fire will beckon you inside, but you’ll stay for the jolly atmosphere of frosted window panes, a teeny kitchen, and friendly locals. With plenty of inspired cocktails, local wines, and craft beers on tap, your nightcap may turn into a few more.  

It’s hard to beat an English pub on a cold day, and Pomeroy’s does not disappoint. Located in a charming brick building on Kilmore Street, this institution is as authentic as they come - from the patterned carpets to the wood-veneer bar. If the decor - and the log-burning fire - don’t keep you, the vast number of craft beer taps will. Specialising in local flavours (Beer Baroness brews on-site), but offering a wide range of New Zealand beers, Pomeroy’s can’t be beaten for brew-lovers. Don’t expect typical pub-fare, either, each of their dishes is lovingly made with inventive, but not too out-there, flavours that keep guests coming back time and time again.

Nestled into the Beckenham neighbourhood, The Birdwood is a winter essential. Offering both a roaring brunch and coffee in the morning and an authentic Italian pizza and pasta restaurant at night, this space surprises and delights. We recommend going for dinner and lingering over one of the wines they have on tap, munching on house-made, wood-fired pizza and pastas. The cosy space features dark colours, low lighting, and wraparound booths for big parties, making it the perfect spot for a winter gathering.