12 Vegetarian Restaurants in Christchurch You Need to Try
David Harris
| Last Updated: March 2024 You know the real challenge of vegetarianism? Finding exciting, flavorful food that won’t leave you missing the ol’ burger and fries. I recently learned that while helping a vegetarian friend find places to dine here.
Thankfully, we eventually learned that Christchurch has quite a few innovative plant-based restaurants. So after going around and trying each one, here are my top picks of vegetarian restaurants in Christchurch, New Zealand.
1. The Lotus Heart
Address: 363 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM & 5 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +6433772727
The Lotus Heart restaurant takes vegetarian cuisine on a global journey. Their menu features a variety of nourishing options, from whole-some Buddha bowls (including a keto-friendly choice) to hearty curries and Indian-style dosas.
They use the freshest, locally sourced, and organic ingredients whenever possible, ensuring your meal is not only delicious but also good for you and the environment.
Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have specific dietary needs, The Lotus Heart has got you covered. They’re happy to customise dishes to suit your preferences, so you don’t have to worry about feeling left out.
Pro Tip: The Lotus Heart only serves dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
2. Water Drop Vegetarian Cafe
Address: 2 Harakeke Street, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +6433416294
Water Drop Vegetarian Cafe doesn’t just offer boring veggie burgers and limp salads. They’re all about unique Asian fusion dishes and tasty takes on classic Chinese vegetarian cuisine.
Savoury laksa, crispy pan-fried dumplings, and melt-in-your-mouth pepper salt tofu. But this cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a peaceful atmosphere that sets the tone for a relaxing meal.
And Water Drop has affordable prices that won’t leave you feeling hangry or empty-walled.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on their limited braised noodle soup!
3. Veg’n Friends
Address: 314 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand
Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 2:30 PM
Phone: +64211878176
Veg’n Friends is fully vegan, which means everything is plant-based and bursting with flavor. Owned by a Latin American couple, Veg’n Friends brings the vibrant flavors of South America to your plate.
They make everything in-house, from their savoury empanadas to decadent vegan sweets. And they close a bit early, so swing by before then to get your fill of empanadas and coffee.
Pro Tip: On Wednesdays, you can get burritos and drinks for 16 NZD. Thursdays serve up empanadas and brownies for 12 NZD. And on the weekends, you can get empanadas for 7 NZD.
4. Barefoot Eatery
Address: 20 Welles Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday & Monday – 8 AM to 6 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 8 AM to 7 PM
Phone: +64211996738
Barefoot Eatery is all about creating dishes that are as good for you as they are tasty.
They have mouthwatering nourish bowls bursting with veggies, house-made waffles that are anything but boring (hello, buckwheat!), and toasted sandwiches that redefine the genre.
Plus, they cater to all sorts of dietary needs—dairy-free, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, you name it!
Craving something sweet? Their selection of treats is all made from scratch, so you can indulge in guilt-free brownies, cookies, and slices.
Pro Tip: Barefoot is located at The Welder, a cool co-working space, so grab your lunch and head outside.
5. Shree Jagannath Cafe
Address: 205 Fendalton Road, Fendalton, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +6433511488
If you’re looking for an authentic Indian feast that caters to herbivores, then look no further than Shree Jagannath Cafe. Their menu is a vibrant celebration of Indian vegetarian cuisine.
You’ll find anything from fluffy dosa (a South Indian crepe), savoury samosas, and rich chickpea curries that will have you wondering how something so delicious can be meat-free. Plus, they have a whole section dedicated to Bombay street food, perfect for a quick and flavorful bite.
The beauty of Shree Jagannath Cafe is that they cater to all spice tolerances. You can ask for your curries to be mild, medium, or vindaloo-hot, depending on your heat preference.
Pro Tip: Try their raita (yoghurt dip) and fresh mango lassi, to tame the flames if things get a little too fiery.
6. Welcome Chinese Vegetarian Cafe
Welcome Chinese Vegetarian Cafe
Address: 2 Wharenui Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Phone: +6433482630
Welcome Cafe takes inspiration from all over China, with dishes that burst with savoury, sweet, and spicy notes. Crispy dumplings, flavorful noodle soups, and hearty stir-fries are anything but boring.
They have an amazing lunch buffet, perfect for trying a little bit of everything. Pile your plate high with veggie versions of all your favourite classics.
They have plenty of vegan options, and many dishes can be made gluten-free. They even avoid ingredients like onion and garlic for those with sensitivities.
Pro Tip: Warm up from the inside out with a steaming pot of their famous steam boat. This winter speciality lets you choose a flavorful broth, like spicy Malay or herbal Chinese, and then cook a variety of delicious veggies and mock meats right at your table.
7. 29 Sweets
Address: 5A Pilgrim Place, Sydenham, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6434201130
This vegetarian and vegan Indian restaurant is a haven for those who love bold spices and delicious, plant-based eats. 29 Sweets isn’t messing around with bland veggie fare.
Their menu is a vibrant celebration of Indian cuisine, with curries, dosas, and thalis bursting with flavor. From the creamy texture of the shahi paneer to the crispy delight of the aloo tikki burger, every bite is an adventure.
Pro Tip: Try their dairy-free ice cream!
8. Herba Gourmet
Address: 96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6439259911
This spot on Oxford Terrace is a haven for vegetarians (and anyone who digs fresh, healthy food). Their whole vibe is about vibrant, healthy salads made with fresh ingredients— perfect for a quick lunch on the go.
Get the herb-crusted falafel and then choose your superfood salads like beetroot and feta, chickpea and quinoa, and more.
Dietary restrictions? No worries! Herba Gourmet caters to a gluten-free crowd, with many of their dishes naturally gluten-free and most offering a gluten-free option.
Pro Tip: Try their kumara ribbons with cumin seed oil
9. Green Superfood & Juice Bar
Address: 6/363 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Phone: +64276016251
Gre3n Superfood & Juice Bar menu has colourful salads, veggie-packed wraps, and tempting smoothie bowls.
They’re a superfood bar, incorporating nourishing ingredients like acai, chia seeds, and hemp into their creations. Nutrition for the win!
Really, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs, Gre3n has something to offer you.
Pro Tip: Be sure to try their hemp seed smoothies or protein shakes.
10. Grater Goods
Address: 105 Orbell Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand
Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +64272899295
Grater Goods is not your typical salad bar. It’s a haven for plant-based food lovers, where vegetarian cuisine is elevated to an art form.
They’ve perfected the art of creating plant-based versions of all your favourite dishes, from spicy chorizo and creamy cheese to juicy burgers and rich pâtés.
And their deli counter is stocked with their house-made vegan delights, perfect for grabbing a quick snack or taking a little bit of Grater Goods’ magic home with you.
Pro Tip: Be sure to try their delicious KFT salad.
11. Bikanervala
Address: 458 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Phone: +6435950292
At Bikanervala you’ll find North and South Indian classics like creamy dosas and crispy samosas, alongside satisfying street food like chaat (think savory, saucy goodness).
They even have Chinese and Continental options for those who want a bit of variety. Basically, there’s something for every vegetarian taste bud. The portions are generous, so you won’t leave hungry either.
Pro Tip: Get their mango mastani. It’s deliciously sweet.
12. Portershed
Address: 322 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Portershed takes classic New Zealand dishes and gives them a vibrant vegan makeover. Think juicy quarter-pound burgers, fluffy French toast with creamy (vegan!) ice cream, and donuts that are light and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you’re a die-hard vegan, a curious vegetarian, have dietary restrictions like allergies, or follow Halal principles, you’ll find something delicious to enjoy.
Pro Tip: They make some of the best coffee in town, so definitely give their coffee a go.
