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Christchurch
Reviewed by Diana
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Christchurch Restaurants Click
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Date/Time:
Fri 16th Feb 2007, 7.15 pm
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Restaurant:
The Coffee House
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Booking:
Not essential, but recommended at night
365 6066
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Where
to Find:
290 Montreal St., Christchurch
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Parking:On
the street, in one of the Council parking buildings within
2/3 blocks, or in the Arts Centre carpark on the corner of
Park Tce and Worcester St
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Service:
Delightful, friendly and efficient young staff. Remember that this
restaurant is one of the establishments near the Arts Centre, so
there is always a flurry of activity just before the shows start.
If you’re attending one do the sensible thing and let the staff
know you’ve got limited time, and they’ll do everything possible
to accommodate you.
Presentation:
The food is beautifully presented, absolutely fresh and completely
delicious. Their polenta is the best I've ever tasted. They roast
their own coffee, which is fantastic, and the cause of pilgrimages
from offices all over the central city.
Wine List:
Reasonable , and from some sneaky listening-in I can vouch for the
fact that the staff have an impressive knowledge of the wines on
offer
Value for
Money:
Prices very reasonable for meals of
this quality. I heartily recommend the scallop and prawn brochette
salad. Check the specials, and don’t bypass the truly delectable
venison if it’s on offer.
Ambience:
This can be a sunny spot,
so bring your sunglasses on a summer evening, and choose your table
to suit your love or otherwise of heat. The separate areas of the
restaurant (small dining room, screened in verandah, gazebo and
outdoor tables) give a wealth of choice, and mean it doesn't get
too rowdy. Pleasant upmarket cafe-style décor with original
old wooden floors.
The feel
good factor:
Great food from two excellent,
very experienced European chefs, in a charming old building. Atmosphere
always relaxed even when the place is buzzing.
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