Curators House Restaurant

Reviews

1. Kate Scruton ★★★★☆

   Visiting Christchurch on return from a NZ holiday . The garden setting & location of Curators House was perfect. Staff were knowledgeable & friendly. (Spanish inspired restaurant) . I ordered the Pork Belly - it’s all about the crackling BUT unfortunately I found the crackling unpleasant (scrapped of any fat & so thin & deep fried & no salt) the pork belly meat was juicy & tender however the fat from the pork belly rind was thick & sitting on top of the meat so that was scrapped to the side (I felt it could’ve been left on the rind/crackling for a better result). Mash & peas condiments were great . But again it’s all about the crackling ….. for that reason I’ve dropped my food score to a 4/5. Was there with a friend but was a very romantic setting would suit a special occasion with that special person ; a large outdoor area in a cottage garden setting. Indoor seating the decor was lovely.

   almost 6 months ago
2. Julie Laming ★★★★★

   We thoroughly enjoyed an impromptu lunch here. It was like stumbling on Hansel & Gretells house in the middle of the Christchurch botanical gardens. It’s difficult to put into words how divine the gardens and ambience was. Then comes out the food which was fresh and flavoursome. I would definitely recommend this experience.

   almost 6 months ago
3. Jacobo Garcia Baonza ★★★★★

   The Curator’s House is an absolute gem in Christchurch. Nestled beside the Botanic Gardens, it offers a perfect blend of Spanish authenticity and New Zealand charm. Every dish we tried burst with flavor — from the paella to the tapas, everything was beautifully prepared and full of personality. The staff were welcoming and attentive, making us feel like guests in their home rather than customers. The garden setting adds a magical touch, especially on a sunny afternoon or at sunset with a glass of sangria. Truly one of the best dining experiences in the city — a must‑visit for anyone who loves genuine Spanish cuisine and warm hospitality.

   almost 7 months ago

1. ATGC ★★★★★

   We found this restaurant by accident as we were walking along the botanical garden. It is the historical building - as it sounds- previous curator house - changed to restaurant in 1999. We were lucky enough to get a table without booking on Tuesday night. Staffs are very helpful (especially Francesca who helped us to choose the yummy vegan food ) and foods are tasty. Overall great experience.

   almost 7 months ago
2. ChenFamily ★★★★☆

   Lovely ambience, friendly service, although it seems quite popular so tables may go quite quickly. Spanish fare on offer. Took the artichokes (tasty but perhaps a tad oily), mushroom croquettes (crunchy outside, inside filling a little too soft). Seafood tasting tapas also pretty good, but the salad was a miss. Good, but doesn't quite match the standard in Spain! Service was friendly and relatively efficient.

   almost 8 months ago
3. Ellie Monk ★★★★★

   Had a splendid evening here! We had the last reservation of the night and were still treated with incredible service. The food was immaculate, fresh and well designed. My partner and I shared a variety of their tapas and I am so glad we got to taste so many of their wonderfully cultivated menu items. To top the entire thing off, the indoor fireplaces kept a great comfort over the dinner table and the stunningly manicured garden was perfect to finish our bottle of wine. Thank you Curator team - we had a wonderful anniversary dinner with you.

   almost 2 years ago

1. Steve Warne ★★★★★

   Best restaurant in Christchurch. I should end the review there! Spanish tapas, lamb and paella served in the Botanic gardens Curators house. We always enjoy coming here when visiting Christchurch and have never been disappointed.

   almost 2 years ago
2. Chomp Bel ★★★★★

   Good food with nice view. it’s one of our best meals in NZ trip.

   almost 3 years ago
3. Emma Collins ★★★★★

   We went on a Saturday afternoon just after lunch for some nibbles and drinks. It was a bright sunny day so we sat outside and enjoyed the view around us. The staff were lovely. We had a traditional sangria each, and the tasting platter; which was shared between two. Would go back again.

   almost 3 years ago

1. Carl K ★★★★☆

   Boutique yet interestingly Spanish influenced place, great for sitting around the outside (if it wasn’t raining cats and dogs) and enjoying some fresh light lunch or afternoon tea with the pleasing view of their gorgeous garden. The food is quite surprising with a strong Spanish touch, we got the recommended tapas tasting and the house specialty paella, the tapas are nice, but I was expecting something a little more vege-cheese oriented, and less fried stuff, but they tasted pretty good nonetheless. The paella, which would be perfect if the bottom was more appropriately charred, is still the best we have had in NZ so far, nicely balanced seasoning with strong hint of saffron, the rice is perfectly cooked to Al dente, the seafood are fresh and properly cooked and goes great with the rice, we found the mayo based sauce a little unnecessary but it’s generally great. The desserts are just alright, the almond tart with sherry is a great dish, but the Creme brûlée is a little too runny and too sweet for our liking. Also, their house made sangrias are a must try, so refreshing!

   almost 3 years ago

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