We are lucky to have a huge array of choice eateries here in Christchurch, and let’s just say that if you’ve never struggled to pick which delicious menu to go for, congratulations – you’re a unicorn.

For the more decisively-challenged among us, these dining destinations are like the food courts over the rainbow – magical, shiny, and filled with some truly stunning independent eateries. Don’t get us wrong, it’ll still be hard to choose, but these hubs are so belly-rumblingly cool you’ll probably just keep coming back until you’ve tried everything anyway.

Riverside Market One of the crown jewels of Christchurch’s rebuild, Riverside Market is a seven-day-a-week indoor farmers’ market bursting with eateries, drinkeries, boutique shopping, artisan makers and more. Bringing international vibes to the Garden City, this bustling community hub is a true destination, for delicious food and drink, for fresh, organic, locally grown produce, for music and events, cooking classes, for meeting friends and for just enjoying.

The main floor lends itself to at least a couple of circuits just to take it all in (spot the original clocks taken from the old Moorhouse Ave train station), and just when you thought there were more choices than you could shake a stick at, head upstairs to the mezzanine floor, where several restaurants and bars offer sun-soaked seating overlooking the river. Take out-of-towners here to show off Christchurch’s inner city to maximum effect.

riverside.nz

The Colombo A keystone of downtown Sydenham, The Colombo is a unique shopping and entertainment experience in contemporary-cool environs. With a world-class food hall offering everything from fresh juices and smoothies to macarons and out-of-this-world sandwiches, it is also a great spot to pull up a pew and indulge your taste buds in some quality fare. Don’t miss the Scandinavian wares (including IKEA imports) at Nordic Chill, and up your street cred with some seriously rad threads from Stencil. Make The Colombo your stop for boutique, independent shopping, a spot of pampering and relaxation, and a top-notch spot to satisfy your sweet or savoury craving.

thecolombo.co.nz

Eats on Oxford This crisp, ‘laxed dining alley over on the hospital side of Hagley Park is fresh and 'fast' food-focused, serving up a delish range of cuisines in the under-catered Health Precinct. With a view of the Avon River, this is an ideal spot to relax away from the precinct’s bustle and fuel up on some truly awesome eats. Catch some authentic Mexican delights from Habanero’s Urban Mexican Grill, beautiful Middle Eastern meals at The Best Grill, a tasty concoction of eats from Sesame Noodle & Dumpling, and the rock ‘n’ rollas at Burgers & Beers doing what they do exceptionally well.

eatsonoxford.co.nz

EntX With a diverse lineup of 12 tastebud-tempting offerings, plus state-of-the-art cinemas and bars, the super-slick EntX on the corner of Lichfield and Colombo streets is your one-stop shop for a night out. You’ll be wishing for a second stomach to sample more of the wares on offer here, from spicy morsels at Hanoi Old Quarter, Pad Thai Pan or Two Fat Indians, to bangin’ burgers or salads from Joe’s Garage, the fresh and colourful creations at Roll and Bowl, or sweet treats and bubble tea at Boba Bear.

We suggest leaving enough time before your movie to a) make up your mind, and b) savour whatever gastronomic delight you settle on. With those steps complete, make for the upper levels and kick back in the Hoyts cinemas, with two Xtremescreens with Dolby Atmos, or get your fancy on at Hoyts Lux – a top-of-the-line cinematic experience complete with premium dining options from heart-throb celeb chef Manu Feildel.

entx.co.nz

Little High Eatery Bodacious shared eatery space Little High turns out a variety of wicked eats thanks to its sensational lineup of local- and family-run businesses. Like a laneway all its own with a buzzing atmosphere, raw industrial aesthetic, and tantalising smells coming from every direction, Little High is a sensory overload in all the best ways.

Home to the likes of finger-lickin-good burger creations from Bacon Brothers, bold Latin American flavours at Caribe Latin Kitchen and boutique Chinese food hotspot Eightgrains, Little High also has Japanese, Thai and Venezuelan offerings, plus the drool-worthy woodfired pizzas at BASE, guaranteed to tickle anyone’s fancy.

With outdoor seating to enjoy the warm days and plenty indoors when it’s cold, this central-city hub is perfect for after-work drinks, a catch up with friends, breakfast, brunch, or a great night out – especially when it plays host to some excellent live music.

littlehigh.co.nz