The Best Cafés & Restaurants in Christchurch with Kids
The Best Cafés & Restaurants in Christchurch with Kids
By Kate @christchurchwithkids
Finding a great café or restaurant that welcomes kids and serves amazing food is basically the holy grail of parenting. Whether you’re after a spot with a play area (so you can actually drink your coffee while it’s hot), or just somewhere with plenty of space for kids to roam, Christchurch has some absolute gems.
Here are the best family-friendly cafés and restaurants that make eating out with little ones not just doable, but actually enjoyable.
The Lil Brew, Redcliffs
186a Main Road, Redcliffs
Housed in a gorgeous old red cottage, this café is a dream for parents of little ones. It boasts three separate play areas - two outdoor and one indoor - so kids can stay entertained while you tuck into one of their incredible fresh-baked cookies, specialty scones or acai bowls. There's also a charming little gift shop upstairs and, for those with furry kids, it’s pup-friendly too.
Why parents love it: Amazing sweet treats, plenty of play areas, and historic cottage vibes.
Brighton Beach House, North New Brighton
16A Beach Road, North New Brighton
A café right across from the beach and a massive playground? Yes please! Brighton Beach House has a lovely fenced play area with shade, so the kids can have fun while you enjoy a peaceful coffee. Whether you’re stopping by post-beach or just popping in for brunch or coffee, this is a must-visit for families.
Why parents love it: Location, location, location! Playground, beach, fenced play area - everything you need.
Riverlution, Richmond
46A Vogel Street, Richmond
A fresh new opening, Riverlution is a container café nestled in a community garden. There's plenty of outdoor seating, loads of shade, and even chickens for the kids to greet. Plus, it’s right next to Avebury Park, which has a brand-new playground plus a paddling pool - ideal for a full morning out.
Why parents love it: Nature, space, and bonus points for chickens and a playground next door.
London Canteen, Spreydon
92 Stourbridge Street, Spreydon
This recent opening is a literal oasis for caffeine-deprived parents. Attached to Oderings Garden Centre in Barrington, it offers a reasonably priced menu, delicious patisserie treatsand a huge enclosed outdoor space, plus another little area of fully outdoor seating. There’sa sandpit with toys, books, and a dedicated kids' menu - so good you might actually be able to relax.
Why parents love it: Cheap menu food, lots of space, and a sandpit = a stress-free café experience.
Real Fruit Parlour, Edgeware
1066E Colombo Street, St Albans
Fresh smoothies, real fruit ice cream, actual fresh juice (not from a bottle!), and an excellent selection of cabinet treats make this café a hit. The interior is fun with a faux tree over the wall and ceiling! There's also a little play area with a huge range of toys, ,booksand colouring-in to keep little ones busy while you enjoy a smoothie or coffee.
Why parents love it: Great healthy options for kids, and a play area to keep them occupied.
Dune Café, South New Brighton
51 Bridge Street, New Brighton
This stylish beachside café brings Byron Bay vibes to Christchurch. With an outdoor playhouse, indoor toys, and incredible coffee and smoothies, it’s a great spot to recharge before or after a beach walk. The food is chef’s kiss - especially their massive cabinet lineup.
Why parents love it: Relaxed, modern, beachy, delicious food and plenty to keep the kids entertained.
Meshino, Merivale
75 Rutland Street, St Albans
Housed in a gorgeous old villa, Meshino is a must-visit for coffee-loving parents. There’s freshly squeezed orange juice, a cute outdoor play area with a cubby house, mini slide, and toys, and it’s just one block from Malvern Park, which has a fantastic playground.
Why parents love it: Classic, cosy and close to a great park for post-brunch adventures.
Sign of the Takahe, Cashmere
200 Hackthorne Road, Cashmere
A café inside a literal castle? Say no more. Sign of the Takahe is hands down one of the coolest spots to take the kids, not only does it have stunning views, but there’s also a knight’s suit of armour on display inside. While there aren’t toys as such, there’s plenty of outdoor space to run around. If you need even more adventure it’s just a two-minute drive from Victoria Park Playground, so you can pair your coffee with a play.
Why parents love it: A castle, coffee and treats plus the coolest spot for photos - it’s a win all around.
One Good Horse, Parklands
6 Inwoods Road, Parklands
If you need a place for dinner with friends (without losing your mind), One Good Horse is it. Inside, there’s a mini indoor soft play centre, perfect for older kids who need more than just a colouring sheet or toy box. Plus, their kids’ menu is solid, making it one of the best places for a casual family meal.
Why parents love it: A full indoor play area = actual adult conversation at dinner.
Utopia Ice Cream, Sumner
15 Wakefield Avenue, Sumner
Boutique small-batch ice cream? Heaven. This little gem not only serves some of the best ice cream in Christchurch, but it also has a cute garden area with shaded seating and vintage toys for kids. Bonus: it’s right behind Sumner Beach, so you can grab a cone then stroll by the sea.
Why parents love it: Gourmet ice cream, coffee and a beautiful setting - what’s not to love?
Under the Red Verandah, Linwood
29 Tancred Street, Linwood
Set in a charming old house, this café has a courtyard with plenty of seating shaded by trees and lots of space for kids to roam. Their brunch menu is fantastic, and there’s a little box of toys for kids. It’s super popular, so book ahead if you’re going on the weekend!
Why parents love it: Great food, relaxed vibes and a courtyard perfect for brunching with kids.
The Welder, City Centre
20-26 Welles Street, Christchurch
This hipster hotspot features multiple eateries under one roof, including Grizzly Bakery (amazing croissants), Barefoot Café (vegan treats), and Kokomo (smoothies). With plenty of space to roam inside and a toy area for kids, this cool space and variety of food make it great for a delicious snack and a catch up with friends, especially on a rainy day.
Why parents love it: A food-lovers’ paradise with enough variety to keep everyone (and every budget) happy.
