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Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Christchurch

By Emma Jackson
Published 24 February 2026
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Looking for somewhere to enjoy eating out as a family with the kids in Christchurch? Luckily, the Garden City has an abundance of different places that are perfect for families, whether your whanau prefers Asian cuisine, Italian pizzas and pastas, or seek scenic waterfront views. If you are feeling stuck on where to eat next with the whanau, we have put together our top 7 family restaurants in Christchurch to try.

  • Crazy Horse

    8 Shirley Road, Christchurch
    It's perfect for when you’re craving bold Thai flavours, big portions and a night that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
    You need to try the drunken noodles and pineapple fried rice, then cool off with a house lager or spicy margarita.
    Look out for bamboo walls, cheeky neon signs and staff who are just as fun as the food.

    The Crazy Horse offers a vibrant family night out. As a fusion of Thai and Kiwi cuisine, guests can enjoy bold flavours and large portions. Colourful and tasty dishes that the whole family will enjoy including noodles, pineapple fried rice, and their signature beer cheek panang curry. The live jazz and blues performances will keep the kids entertained, paired with the unique neon signs and bamboo walls, which add to the fun and lively atmosphere.

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  • The Dish

    376 Montreal Street, Christchurch
    It's perfect for nights when you want bold flavours, warm lighting and a bit of buzz.
    You need to try the slow-cooked beef cheek with fluffy roti to soak it all up.
    Look out for glowing lanterns, spice in the air and staff who make every table feel like the main event.

    The Dish is a relaxed and humble family-friendly Asian fusion in the heart of Christchurch. The restaurant is dedicated to good and honest food using the freshest ingredients. Their menu consists of a wide range of colourful and tasty dishes, including pad thai, sticky pork ribs, and slow-cooked beef cheek. Aglow with warm lanterns, flecks of red and pink florals, and greenery, the atmosphere is cosy, charming and perfect for an evening with the family in Christchurch.  

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  • Gin Gin

    4 New Regent Street, Central City, Christchurch

    Tucked into Christchurch’s bustling New Regent Street, Gin Gin captures pastel hues, lush decor, and warm ambience. Their delicious menu is perfect for families, offering comfort meals that the kids will love, such as pizzas, and dishes for the more mature palettes, such as their signature goji-brined fried chicken with shiitake mushrooms. With live music, an outdoor courtyard, and friendly service, Gin Gin is an elegant spot to take the family. 

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  • Mumbaiwala Christchurch

    120 Hereford Street, BNZ CENTRE, Christchurch

    Whisking families to the vibrant streets of Mumbai, Mumbaiwala Christchurch is one to visit. It’s a simple and elegant dining suite that unravels a menu inspired by the roadside stalls of India, where colour, spice, and aromatics fuse to create a flavour sensation. With plenty of options for the whole family, the restaurant encourages guests to share plates, as they do in India, for a truly authentic experience.

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  • The Birdwood

    76 Malcolm Avenue, Christchurch

    Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, The Birdwood is an Italian restaurant famous for its hand-stretched and woodfired pizzas. Serving a range of pastas and antipasti, using fresh and simple ingredients, the menu will satisfy kids and adults alike. Open for both lunch and dinner, The Birdwood has fostered a sense of community with its people-focused and authentic atmosphere, making it a friendly and welcoming spot to take the family for a cosy and casual dining experience in Christchurch. 

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  • Mexico Christchurch

    203 Manchester Street, Christchurch

    For an authentic and lively experience of Mexican cuisine, take your family to Mexico Christchurch. Inspired by the streets of its namesake nation, the menu crafts bold flavours using seasonal ingredients. With vegetarian and gluten-free options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Featuring colourful and detailed murals, warm hanging lanterns, and plenty of seating options, Mexico Christchurch captures an immersive atmosphere that the kids and adults alike will love.

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