Christchurch is home to some of the country’s best gastropubs, with mouth-watering menus as well as a wide range of beers, wines and other beverages on offer.

They are havens for fine fare based on old-skool classics and chill surrounds – Christchurch’s gastropubs are well worth exploring.

In Victoria Street you’ll find The Bog, an Irish bar and restaurant offering a range of hearty Irish classics and retaining all the traditions of the classic Irish pub.

It’s a short jaunt from here down to the Carlton Bar & Eatery, the purpose-built post-quake version of a bar and restaurant long part of the scene. Towards the east, Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn is home to more than 30 taps of New Zealand and international craft beer. They do some awesome eats too.

Make a beeline for The Terrace, where you’ll find Terrace Tavern, a modern watering hole overlooking the Avon. Continue up to The Craft Embassy, an award-winning bar and restaurant that has 30 taps of independent craft beer on offer.

Another inner-city hospo hotspot is Dux Central, which offers a choice of spaces, all serviced by the same excellent kitchen. The menu is available throughout the venue and offers sharing plates, pizza and main dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options.

North of the city in Edgeware, Bailies Bar & Restaurant is a chilled-out spot perfect for a quiet drink after work, drinks before dinner or a big night out with friends. You won’t want to miss Merivale’s No.4 Bar & Restaurant and its epic courtyard and tasty fare, or the craft beer perfection of Nelson-brewed beers and ciders on tap at Merivale Sprig & Fern Tavern, which also does a fine sideline in pizzas. Also in Merivale is local favourite Aikmans, ideal for a stylish meal or relaxed catch-up with friends at the bar. Be sure to hit up The Brewers, a friendly and unpretentious tavern where great food, beverages and service awaits. At the foot of the Cashmere Hills is Protocol. Enjoy the sunny courtyard over a refreshing beverage and some great food. And in Woolston you’ll find The Brewery at The Tannery, with its own craft beers and fine pizzas.

In the city’s west, down Lincoln Road, you’ll find The Pedal Pusher, which offers up friendly service, great beer and wine, and regular meal specials. Nearby is The Miller Bar & Café, which has been providing top-notch hospitality for 25 years.

Across the way is the legendary Irish pub Sulllivans, home to a great range of international beverages and a tasty menu of traditional Irish fare. There’s more Irish pub goodness at The Craic Irish Bar in Riccarton; you’ll find a great menu and entertainment five nights a week.

Further out, Merrin Street Brewery Bar at Avonhead Mall offers the legendary hospitality of the West Coast. The Elmwood Trading Co. in Strowan has a superb restaurant and a large range of beers on tap. Flax – Bar and Eatery, in Prestons, has a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu as well as an extensive drinks list.

To the east, O’Sheas Public House in Shirley is a warm and welcoming Kiwi local with a strong Irish theme. In the Heathcote Valley, the Valley Inn Tavern continues a 130-year tradition of hospitality. If you’re out in Lincoln, make sure you hit up The Flaming Rabbit, a super rad bar and eatery.

Head over the Port Hills to the Governors Bay Hotel, with its commanding views over Lyttelton Harbour. The menu boasts sharing plates and delicious desserts.