The Best Breakfast Spots in Christchurch, New Zealand

Expect creative little twists on your favourite brunch classics at this popular coffee roastery in the city centre. The menu features all of your favourite breakfast foods, such as eggs benedict, french toast, traditional fry-ups and breakfast quesadillas – all prepared with seasonal, ethically sourced ingredients. There are plenty of healthier dishes available too, along with a great range of vegetarian options, so no one needs to miss out. Its coffees are first-rate (it’s a roastery, after all) – you might never go anywhere else for your morning brew again.

Recommended by local insider Ashley Owen

Start your weekend the right way with a trip to this bright, airy café inside an old post office. The friendly staff and laid-back vibes make Hello Sunday a fantastic place for a spot of morning relaxation – bring a book to read as you sip a freshly brewed coffee or two. Menu-wise, expect all of your favourite brunch bites, including shakshuka, beef-cheek hash, eggs benedict and french toast, all prepared perfectly; there’s also a good choice of vegan options.

Recommended by local insider Ashley Owen

Housed in a renovated warehouse with exposed ceilings, exposed brickwork and a general industrial-chic aesthetic, Black Betty is on-trend and has the goods to match, with an extensive menu of larger brunch classics alongside smaller plates. The french toast crumpets and vegan granola are excellent choices if you’re looking for something lighter. There are also plenty of gluten-free options and a separate kids’ menu, which helps give this chicest of establishments a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that will keep you coming back time and again.

Recommended by local insider Ashley Owen

You’ll find Park Ranger packed on a weekend morning, so come early or be prepared to queue. Is it worth waiting for a table at this solid local favourite? The answer is a resounding “yes”, whether you’re looking for a breezy brunch catch-up with friends, a solo breakfast where you can spend some quality reading time or a coffee to go. The coffee is excellent, and the menu offers twists on tried-and-tested classics, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.

Recommended by local insider Christine van Til

Since opening in late 2019, Barefoot Eatery has been the talk of the town for Christchurch residents due to its raw, plant-based and allergy-friendly menu. There’s an emphasis on organic, ethically sourced ingredients and a bright, sunny interior that provides an uplifting environment in which to start your day. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to the usual brunch options or want an extensive range of plant-based food, this is the perfect spot.

Recommended by local insider Christine van Til

Gentle Giant couples trendy, pared-back decor with an atmosphere so thoroughly inviting that you’ll never want to leave. Perhaps that’s why this Waltham spot is consistently buzzing with people, especially on the weekends. However, the combined sweet and savoury menu – featuring spicy pork belly and crispy chicken alongside waffles, french toast and superfood salads – has something to do with it too. While its service will make you smile, its food will make you smile even more. It’s a winner.

Recommended by local insider Christine van Til

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