Christchurch Coastal Eats: Best Restaurants from Sumner to New Brighton
Christchurch boasts a vibrant coastline, speckled with a series of seaside suburbs. New Brighton is a laidback neighbourhood, known for its old-school charm and fresh, buzzing energy. It’s a great place to spend a morning enjoying the surf or browsing the boutiques, gardens, and creative studios. Sumner is another popular seaside suburb in the heart of Christchurch, unique for its quirky houses, walking and biking trails, migratory birds, and even the local “Hollywood” movie theatre.
Christchurch’s coastal suburbs draw visitors and locals alike for its range of tantalising restaurants, where humble community meets top-quality cuisine. If you are spending a morning or a full day exploring the coastline, it’s important to stop and refuel at one of Christchurch’s fine seaside establishments.
We have gathered our top Christchurch coastal eats, from New Brighton restaurants to restaurants in Sumner.
-
Sumner Social
22A Esplanade, ChristchurchSumner Social is a vibrant dining hub, nestled in the charming coastal suburb of Sumner. Since its opening in 2021, Sumner Social has offered all-day dining and the allure of sea views. With its pastel-yellow exterior, bright yellow umbrellas adorning its alfresco dining suite, and warm hanging lanterns, Sumner Social captures the spirit of a lively beach club. A seafood lover’s dream, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or evening affair. Give it a try!
-
Read moreTucked into the bustling coastal suburb of Ferrymead, Craft Bar & Kitchen offers locals and visitors alike a thrilling stonegrill experience. Dining from a 400-degree Celsius stone sears and locks in the natural juices and flavours of meat cuts and seafood, capturing the best flavour and tenderness. This unique dry cooking method doesn’t use oils or fats either. Craft Bar & Kitchen’s special stonegrill menu perfectly complements the restaurant’s extensive craft beer and beverage selection.
-
Read moreJoe’s Garage is a humble, eclectic dining spot, with one of its restaurants nestled along Christchurch’s vibrant coast. The exciting allure comes partly from its playlist, which features tunes from different genres—pop, rock, country, disco, to name a few—helping people of all ages feel comfortable and connected. The menu serves classic Kiwi brunch and dinner dishes, including burgers, fried chicken, salads, and eggs Benedict. Their strong coffee and range of fun beverages add to the appeal. Sitting just one street back from the surf, Joe’s Garage Sumner is a great spot to refuel after a day at the beach.
-
Salt on the Pier
Pier Terminus 195 213 Marine Parade, New Brighton, ChristchurchRead moreAs its name suggests, this restaurant is perched right on the pier in New Brighton, overlooking the water and the activity on the beach. Salt on the Pier is a great spot for a beachfront breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serving up classic Kiwi dishes with local ingredients and flavours, New Brighton has something for everyone, and even caters for dietary requirements, including gluten-free options. From eggs Benedict to Canterbury Lamb Shank and Akaroa Salmon, you are in for a hearty meal on the coast!
-
Read moreSaturdays is a charming cafe, situated across the street from the beach, offering views of the unique New Brighton pier and the sprawling coastline. In the 1960s, New Brighton was the only place in Christchurch where general retail shops could open on Saturdays. This cafe captures the lively, fun spirit of the suburb and celebrates what its namesake day of the week meant to people in the Christchurch community. Serving strong coffee, quality brunch dishes with fresh ingredients, it is a great place to connect, enjoy the view, and spend a Saturday (or any day!). Saturdays is one of the top restaurants in New Brighton, Christchurch.
-
Read moreTucked into the seaside suburb of New Brighton, and just a stone’s throw from the hubbub of the mall, Switch New Brighton is a cosy place to refuel after shopping or enjoying the beach. As a family-run cafe, the team prides itself on high-quality dishes, with its diverse all-day menu that caters to a range of dietary requirements. There are gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options alongside a range of meat dishes. Enjoy the alfresco dining, or escape into its charming indoor dining suite with plenty of natural light for a welcoming and warming experience.
Craving a Coffee Pit Stop?
If you plan to cosy up by the water for a quick stop, try Kraken Coffee in New Brighton. It’s a small, shed-style cafe with big, bold coffee flavours. They are also famous for their pies. Try their chicken, leek, and bacon pie! Or head to North Beach coffee stand in New Brighton - a little beach-themed oasis by the sea. It’s a great pit-stop on your morning walk along the beach with friendly staff and delicious service. Get a pastry at Bohemian Bakery and sit waterside at Scarborough Beach, with plenty of savoury and sweet options to choose from!