Inati, a top fine dining experience in Christchurch, New Zealand. Enjoy the “Trust Us” menu at the gleaming brass chef’s table, with a front-row view of the culinary action.
On my recent trip to Christchurch, I didn't spend all my time looking for the best bars in Christchurch. I was on the hunt for their finest eats as well.
This led me across the Avon River, away from the lively bars and bustling dining scene of Oxford Terrace. Just a short two-minute stroll from the heart of the action, I found myself in a quieter, more serene corner of Christchurch, right at Inati’s doorstep.
Inati is the Maori word for “to share,” and that’s precisely what chef Simon Levy and his talented team embody. They bring New Zealand and Canterbury’s finest produce to the table, creating a dining experience designed for sharing.
Sara xxx
Our visit to Inati was independently paid for and anonymous. We have an "own time own dime" philosophy for restaurant write-ups.
What's in this post
On Arrival
Arriving early, we had the choice of being seated right away or savouring a pre-dinner drink at Inati’s intimate and cozy bar. Opting for the latter, I indulge in a well executed dirty martini and my dining partner, a rum on the rocks.
The look and feel
Inati offers two distinct seating options. For an immersive dining experience, the Chef’s Table features bar seating along a stunning brass counter, providing a front-row view of the open kitchen in action. Alternatively, groups of three or more can opt for traditional table seating, perfect for a more intimate gathering.
Sitting at the counter is an experience in itself, an adventure that comes with a lofty perch! The bar stools are impressively high, offering an unparalleled front-row view of the kitchen’s artistry.
Thankfully, the attentive staff are always ready to lend a hand as you climb up. However, if you have mobility concerns choose the traditional table seating.
The Service
We are looked after by Matthew who takes excellent care of us during the evening. From hoisting me up onto the bar stool to making sure I disembarked without incident after the "trust us" menus' wine pairing.
His expertise in both the dishes and their perfectly paired wines is impeccable. We required a few dietary substitutions, and they were accommodated seamlessly, without hesitation or fuss.
Inati Menu
Inati offers two dining experiences, à la carte or their signature “Trust Us” menu. The “Trust Us” option features a curated selection of six plates ($129/person) or eight plates ($165/person), thoughtfully chosen by the chef.
We opt for the eight course "trust us" menu with wine pairing ($240/person).
We begin our degustation with an enticing selection of smaller plates, starting with smoked veal tartare (dish 1). It sits atop a potato base, reminiscent of potato bread, and is crowned with meringue looking light, airy truffled egg white.
Next, we’re treated to scampi toast (dish 2) and duck parfait trumpets (dish 3). The scampi is lightly seared, offering a delicate, torched flavour, perfectly complemented by the fermented gherkin.
The duck trumpets, meanwhile, are filled with a luxuriously smooth parfait, each bite delivering a delightful contrast of textures, the crisp crunch of the waffle shell and the sweet-tart notes of black peach jam.
Oyster mushrooms (dish 4) served with caramelised whey, burnt honey, and buckwheat. The mushrooms are a meaty crisp tempura style fritter. The hearty fritter, like all the following dishes, is shared between two people.
Smoked curried mussels (dish 5) with fermented asparagus hides under a subtly smoked potato foam made from the muscle liquor.
Creamed corn (dish 6) is served with charred corn kernels, pickled jalapeno, lime zest, and fennel.
The final of the savoury dishes (dish 7) is a perfectly pink North Canterbury lamb fillet with meaty crouton, smoked courgette puree, pinenuts, and lemon.
The final dish (dish 8) is Inati’s creative take on the classic Kiwi treat, the mallowpuff, a staple on their dessert menu. The flavours evolve, and tonight’s rendition features a malteser mallowpuff. It boasts a crunchy biscuit base, topped with a layer of malted marshmallow, followed by a smooth vanilla marshmallow, encased in a rich chocolate shell. A nostalgic end to the meal with a modern twist.
Final Thoughts
Inati is a must visit when in Christchurch. Beyond Chef Levy's well curated and scrumptious menu that beautifully showcases the best of New Zealand’s produce. The experience is elevated by impeccable service and the captivating kitchen theatre on the pass. It’s an unforgettable dining adventure that truly delivers on every front.
Inati Quick FAQs
Tuesday – Saturday: Dinner 5:00pm – Late
Closed Sunday & Monday
Location: 48 Hereford Street in Christchurch Central.
Phone: 03 390 1580
Email: [email protected]
Trust Us – for the table.
6 plates $129pp with wine $189pp
8 plates $165pp with wine $240pp
Individual smaller plates start at $28 through to $115 for larger plates.
Yes, booking is highly recommended for Inati.
There is parking in the streets around the area, or closest parking lots 109 Cambridge Terrace Parking, West End Car Park, and Wilson Parking.
Leave a Reply