Set against a backdrop of sweeping cinematic landscapes and an overwhelmingly pervasive outdoor culture, New Zealand presents a unique challenge for a proudly cynical, indoor-loving New Yorker. Arriving in Christchurch during a 2005 episode of No Reservations, the immediate friction between the hyper-athletic, bungee-jumping local lifestyle and a deep-seated preference for dark bars and heavy meals was palpable. However, the culinary saving grace of this pristine environment is its access to some of the finest wild game, lamb, and produce on the planet. The food scene here is deeply tied to the land, focusing on hearty, unpretentious, farm-to-table cooking long before it became a global marketing buzzword. Whether indulging in a classic, perfectly roasted ham or navigating the local pub scene to drown out the aggressively healthy atmosphere with local beer, the journey highlights the legendary, unassuming warmth of Kiwi hospitality. It is a brilliant study in learning to appreciate a culture that operates at a completely different, much healthier frequency. Here are the standout local spots that grounded this spectacular, outdoorsy adventure.
When Anthony Bourdain visited Christchurch, in New Zealand, on his show No Reservations, he and his crew picked many restaurants. Here are all the addresses and the dishes showcased in a convenient list.
This is No Reservations, season 1, episode 9. It first aired on November 7, 2005.
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DISH – “A Homecooked New Zealand Dish” – Anthony Bourdain Christchurch
WHAT IS IT?
Anthony Bourdain had a ham with wild boar gravy and veggies and also pavlova which is a meringue-based dessert.
“It’s delicious but even after this fluffy dessert I’m feeling wanderlust from more boonies. This outdoor-sy lifestyle has its good points. I’m liking this alot. Now if I can just find a business center in this esteemed room in this joint.” -Anthony Bourdain
WHERE IS IT?
The Lodge at Mudbrick
126 Church Bay Road, Waiheke Island 1971, New Zealand
Christchurch, New Zealand
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DISH – Local Beer – No Reservations Christchurch
WHAT IS IT?
Anthony Bourdain had a local beer at Harrington Brewery Bottle Store located at Christchurch, New Zealand.
“The beer is not helping, I still feel guilty and ashamed. Maybe those vegetarians were right, maybe all living things need to be protected, maybe the world would be a better place if we all lived on nuts and berries frolicking with our animal friends and blissful harmony. Sharing tofu treats together with the old wallow.” -Anthony Bourdain
WHERE IS IT? –
Harrington Brewery Bottle Store
205 Hills Road, St Albans, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
Christchurch, New Zealand
NOTES – Anthony Bourdain Christchurch
Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
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The trip to Christchurch perfectly illustrates the comedic tension that arises when a famously brooding traveler is forced to confront aggressively healthy, cheerful people and pristine nature. In the broader scope of his travels, this episode stands out as a charming surrender to the sheer decency and unparalleled hospitality of the Kiwi people. While he may have grumbled about the extreme sports and fresh air, the quality of the local ingredients and the warmth of a home-cooked meal ultimately won him over. It is a memorable snapshot of a beautiful city years before it would be tragically altered by the devastating 2011 earthquakes. Pack a sturdy pair of boots, embrace the fresh air, and let New Zealand’s extraordinary bounty reward your palate.
