Representing the top-notch dining establishments in the region as voted by the hospitality industry, the finalists in the Christchurch Hospitality Awards have been revealed.
Built around the concept of sharing where guests sit around the chef’s table, elegant eatery Inati is nominated in the outstanding restaurant category while chef Simon Levy is nominated for best chef and William Chase is nominated for the emerging front of house professional. The restaurant picks up its fourth nomination in the category of outstanding wine and beverage list.
Popular speakeasy bar O.G.B housed in an old heritage building in Cathedral Square takes out nominations for best bar, outstanding bartender and emerging front of house professional for Jonah King.
Great cafes are not lacking in the region with Child Sister, Hello Sunday, Little Pom’s and Unknown Chapter all receiving nominations in the category for outstanding cafe.
Those looking for the region’s best flat white have ample selection with Angus Robson of Child Sister; Fumihiko Takai of Espresso Studio by Fushoken; Mitch Barnard of Grain Coffee and Eatery and Katie Eldridge of Little Poms all finalists in the category of best barista.
The developing city also continues to cultivate a new wave of innovative pop-up hospitality establishments. Empire Chicken, Mumbaiwala, Ramen Ria and Smokey T’s all receive a nod in the category for best casual dining or street food establishment.
Those looking for a place to get a great drink also won’t be disappointed with the region’s growing assortment of top-notch bars recognised.
Alfred, O.G.B Bar & Cocktail Bar, Smash Palace and The Last Word all receive nominations for the title of Best Bar.
The Christchurch community is also able to vote for its favourite establishment in the People’s Choice Award category. Recognition is also been given to the demonstration of resilience and creativity during 2020 which has been undeniably tough for the industry.
This year the Restaurant Association has introduced three new categories for Outstanding Community Spirit, Outstanding Innovation and Outstanding Local Hospo Hero in recognition for the people and businesses that have stepped up and shown steely determination as we navigated our way through COVID-19.
24 awards will be handed out to the best of the Christchurch hospitality industry. From crew members to suppliers, to establishments – the best of the best will be celebrated for their contribution to creating a world-class hospitality scene in the region.
“The hard-working Christchurch hospitality industry deserves recognition more than most. They have been at the forefront of the redesign of the city and to have COVID hit them just as they were finding their stride is testament to their incredible creativity and resilience,” commented Marisa Bidois, CEO Restaurant Association of New Zealand.
“The introduction of our three resilience awards are a great opportunity to shine a light on some of the people and businesses that have stepped up as we’ve navigated our way through COVID-19.”
