Get Acquainted at the Chef’s Table at these Christchurch Spots
Dine up close and personal.
Words by: Kelly Tapper
Photography by: Neat Places and Supplied
Dining at the Chef’s Table is inherently special. There’s an immediacy, a sort of unspoken closeness, a secret being shared. On those coveted ring side seats, you can engage in the business of hospitality from the cusp of the inner sanctum. Whether you want to have some banter with the barman or brush up on some knife skills, here are our top places to dine up close and personal in Ōtautahi.
5th Street
5 Elgin Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
5th Street is a genuine delight but sitting up at the bar brings another dimension to this well-loved restaurant. High stools located in front of the kitchen get you right into the fold, and from this viewing angle you’re likely to find a new appreciation for the level of care that goes into a memorable meal. Sharing plates will be the ideal companion for dining at the bar, so order a few and revel in the action.
Inati
48 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
Inati is unlike any other restaurant in Christchurch. Book yourself a slot at the chef’s table and be in the front row to see the masters at work. The sights, smells and sounds blend together in perfect harmony, and the beautiful leather-armchairs and brass topped counter just add to the complete elegance of dining here. Owners Simon and Lisa Levy deliver par excellence *chef’s kiss*.
Londo
Unit 6/2 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch
Located on Papanui Road, Londo, is a restaurant making hearts skip a beat. There are many reasons for this, but being able to sit up at the tactile wooden bar is definitely one of them. Modest in size, the space is beholden to the seats framing the bar (and we love the vibe that creates). Incredible dishes created by chef Robert Fairs only enhance the overall picture. When the food and wine is this good, you won’t notice the passing of time.
Tomi Japanese Restaurant
Edgeware Mall, 76 Edgeware Road, Saint Albans, Christchurch
There’s much to love about Tomi. In fact it has become something of an institution for those seeking out Japanese cuisine in the city. Tomi pride themselves on sourcing the freshest fish from the market daily and so when you take a seat at the bar here, you can watch the fish be prepared by the talented chefs. The skill is palpable, there’s a spellbinding quality to the precision and process they take to get the sashimi out to the diners. Quite something to witness first hand.
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