Dine Al Fresco at the Best Outdoor Restaurant Spots in Christchurch

A true Christchurch institution, Smash Palace is the place to be on a sunny day. When the owner’s original pub fell down during the earthquakes, they decided to open another place, so people could gather and be a part of the new Christchurch. Smash Palace is that place, essentially a bus bar parked in a courtyard, serves up delicious burgers and a rotating tap list. Although the area surrounding is now being redeveloped, the location allows for patrons to take a step back into time, post-earthquake, and watch the city rebuild. As if you needed another reason to go, they also host dance parties (to a wide selection of records) in the courtyard on weekends. You’re welcome.

The back balcony of Lyttelton Coffee Co. is the perfect place for an unobstructed view of the harbour. You’ll find yourself sipping on long blacks and chomping down avocado toast while watching the ships come into port. If you’re lucky enough to grab a front table on market day, you’ll be tempted to spend hours people watching, listening to live music, and enjoying the mammoth menu that the cafe offers.

The Astro Lounge is part of Christchurch mainstay Cook 'N' With Gas, and acts as the perfect place to settle into after-work drinks on a Friday. Soak in the live music, fairy lights, and cushy couches, all while perusing the extensive drinks list. This secluded courtyard is flanked by large trees and greenery, making you feel miles away from the city centre.

O.G.B. sits opposite the Cathedral and is a beacon of live music, speak-easy style drinks, and high-class service in an oft-forgotten city corner. Their large patio features heaters and blankets for chillier nights, but if there is live music or a warm breeze, be sure to get there early - those seats fill up fast!

Located on New Regent Street, The Last Word is an impressive whisky bar with an equally impressive and knowledgeable staff. From their mid-century modern furniture to their cosy, just-like-grandma’s knitted blankets, the extensive whisky menu (and plenty of other libations!) won’t be the only thing keeping you warm. The street front spot allows you to people watch and be a part of all the action.

The perfect place to meet up and savour a drink in the city, Fiddlesticks offers great views of the Art Gallery and plenty of opportunities for people watching. With outdoor seating spilling out onto Worcester, you’ll enjoy the sights of Christchurch’s tram, all while sipping from an extensive wine list.

Cosy, historic, and sophisticated, it’s hard not to instantly fall in love with Cellar Door. Nestled into the historic Arts Centre, you’ll sip and dine amongst heritage brick buildings and gaze out into the grass courtyard. With a wine list several pages long and a menu that’ll make a Michelin starred chef blush, we can’t think of a single reason why you’d only have one drink.

What could be better than great beer, wood-fired pizza, and a covered outdoor patio? Nothing, we say, which is great news for The Brewery, Cassel and Sons’ bar and restaurant. Located in the Tannery’s brick building and smack dab next to Blue Smoke’s gig space, you won’t feel miles away from the city in this suburban hub. The large outdoor space has a great communal feel and the removable sides of the large tent mean that even in inclement weather you can enjoy the fresh air. Did we mention this one is dog-friendly, too?

Image from cassels.nz/brewery-bar/

If you’re looking for a spot a little further afield from the city centre, try Evil Genius. Their courtyard is filled with cosy lights, making a picture-perfect setting for watching the sunset over the estuary. The only tough decision you’ll have to make here is what almost-too-pretty-to-drink cocktail you’re going to order.

A place made for the sunny summer days, Riverside Market leaves you spoiled for choice with outdoor spaces. Enjoy the rooftop views and modern Chinese eats from Midnight Shanghai, or park yourself at the picnic tables for a feast from El Quincho or Herba Gourmet. For scenery that will make you feel like you’re in the centre of a major city, look no further than a spot in the brick alleyways while chowing down on a Shaka Bros burger, we swear the scenery will make you feel like you’re in the centre of a major city.

A short jaunt outside of the city centre will take you to the Ōtoromiro Hotel, but the scenery will make you feel like you’re on a bonafide getaway. Enjoy the sun soaked deck with vast waterfront views and the Port Hills, or relax on the lawn furniture set amongst the surrounding native trees and rose garden.

This gem is a bit of a drive from Christchurch, but we couldn’t resist adding it as a go-to outdoor dining destination. At Ma Maison, you come for the waterfront views, but stay for the glorious seafood and fresh produce, sourced locally whenever possible. You’ll be glad you made the trip.

Want more of our favourite Christchurch recs? Check out how we’d spend 48 hours in the Garden City.

Dux Dine does all seasons well but summertime is when it really comes into its prime. The back doors unfold, the conservatory is filtered in golden sunlight and umbrellas pop in the expansive courtyard making it a wonderful place to dine outside. Appropriately named the Gin Garden, when you step outside you'll spot another bar serving up delicious G&T as well as Aperol Spritz. The ample space, established greenery and relaxed vibes make it a go-to in our books. 

Ilex Café is a winner on many fronts; the location, the architectural prowess, the seasonal menu and of course, the generous outdoor seating area. Found within the Christchurch Botantical Gardens, Ilex Café plays to its strenghts offering patrons the chance to dine in the beauty of the surrounding frondescence. The menu reflect the garden landscape with plenty of locally grown and sourced ingredients.