Welcome Chinese Vegetarian Cafe

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Reviews

1. Denise Fastier ★★★★★

   Such a great selection of dishes. Was not sure what most of it but the owner was super helpful and informative. I think next time I might just tell him what I was after and ask him to recommend. The dish I had was the standard size and was lovely and spicy. Prices were really reasonable. The place does not look much from the outside but inside was clean and nice. We will be bringing friends back in the new year.

   almost 3 months ago
2. elad ★★★★★

   Amazing authentic diverse asian cuisine with fair prices, generous portions, and lovely owner! Almost entirely vegan. They are definitely nutrition-aware so almost every dish has a high protein ingredient. Definitely worth a visit (or 3)

   almost 6 months ago
3. Zee Tana ★★★★☆

   Welcome Chinese Vegetarian Cafe – Review by Zee Tana Visited: Friday night (Matariki), 7:00pm Dined with: My partner Occasion: Celebrating Matariki in Ōtautahi Location: 2 Wharenui Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch ⸻ If you know, you know. Welcome Chinese Vegetarian Cafe isn’t flashy or hyped — but it’s absolutely everything you’d hope for from a classic Chinese vegan eatery. This is where you go when you’re craving full plates, punchy flavour, and fast service. On a chilly Matariki evening, it hit the spot with comfort, speed, and flavour in equal measure. ⸻ First Impressions Unassuming from the outside, but clearly well-loved — the kind of place locals return to again and again. Inside, it’s compact, bright, and bustling. Every table was full, with a constant stream of orders coming from the kitchen — and for good reason. Though the space was crowded, there was something reassuring about it: a full house meant they were clearly doing something right. ⸻ Service Friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. The staff managed the floor smoothly despite the crowd. Our waiter knew the menu well, made helpful recommendations, and kept things moving without making us feel rushed. Water, food, and drinks came quickly, with just the right level of attentiveness. ⸻ Food & Drink We ordered a generous spread: Entrees: • Siew Mei (9 mini pieces) – a flavour-packed bite-sized starter, soft and savoury. • Vegetable Tofu Kebabs – deliciously grilled and lightly seasoned, with a satisfying char. Mains: • Spicy Mushroom Balls (2 chillies) – not for the faint-hearted! Full heat and deep flavour. • Malaysian Crispy Tofu Goreng – crispy on the outside, pillowy on the inside, with bold seasoning. • Braised Mushrooms with Green Vegetables – earthy, tender, and perfectly cooked. • Special Fried Rice – the staple that tied it all together, generous and loaded with vegetables. Drinks: • Ginger Beer • Passionfruit Juice – both refreshing and a nice balance to the spicier dishes. ⸻ The Verdict Flavourful, fresh, fast, and filling. The kind of meal that satisfies every craving — salty, spicy, sweet, and hearty all at once. It’s not gourmet, but it doesn’t pretend to be. This is comfort food done well and done right. ⸻ Final Thoughts Would we go back? Absolutely. We’ll return next time we’re in Ōtautahi and craving proper vegan kai — especially for a hearty, reliable dinner. Rating: 4.5 / 5 Best for: Affordable, generous, plant-based Chinese meals with no fuss Not ideal for: Intimate or quiet date nights — this place is popular and loud for a reason Three words: Cheap. Cheerful. Delicious.

   almost 9 months ago

1. Rafael K (Raf) ★★★★★

   Welcome is probably the best culinary surprise in Riccarton. Entirely vegan ! Best asian fusion choice in city. Don’t be put off by average looking outside or even more rusty and seasoned indoors. The food is worth it ! Food is yummy, fresh and delicious and affordable prices. There are so many options to choose from that it will take you months to try everything they. We have been going there regularly for the past few years and it’s our favourite Friday take away spot. Everything is worth a try depending on your taste. Our choice is hot plate eggplant with tofu and tofu mashed balls with veggies - never disappointed. It’s a family run business, owner is very friendly and accommodating. Place is very popular on weekends especially among students due to nearby university campus.

   almost 2 years ago
2. Jon Andrews ★★★★★

   Love this place, family run little business that is 95% vegan! All the dishes are really nice! However some better then others. No other restaurant exactly like this in Christchurch so very lucky to have this great spot to eat that. I’ve been dozens of times with the service always been great and food is prepared very fast, definitely recommend a visit.

   almost 2 years ago
3. Raf K ★★★★★

   Welcome is probably the best culinary surprise in Riccarton. Entirely vegan ! Best asian fusion choice in city. Don’t be put off by average looking outside or even more rusty and seasoned indoors. The food is worth it ! Food is yummy, fresh and delicious and affordable prices. There are so many options to choose from that it will take you months to try everything they. We have been going there regularly for the past few years and it’s our favourite Friday take away spot. Everything is worth a try depending on your taste. Our choice is hot plate eggplant with tofu and tofu mashed balls with veggies - never disappointed. It’s a family run business, owner is very friendly and accommodating. Place is very popular on weekends especially among students due to nearby university campus.

   almost 2 years ago

1. Natasha Mealing ★★★★★

   Amazing food, I would say the best Asian food in Christchurch. The meals are fully of veggies and heaps of tofu! I usually avoid Chinese restaurants due to past places being oily and not authentic tasting, I can say I definitely do not avoid Welcome Chinese, fresh, tasty and light! The tofu salad was so good!

   almost 2 years ago
2. Emma Chen ★★★★★

   A hidden, laid-back gem of a restaurant! The food is delicious and service is friendly, it’s the taste of authentic home-cooked food.

   almost 2 years ago
3. Ford Fenton ★★★★★

   Amazing use of soy to make the mock fish and chicken style dishes. The fried rice was great, and the steaming cast iron dish is a must for the table. The menu is huge . I didn't really like the soups , just not to my taste, probably bit too authentic for me.

   almost 2 years ago

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