Downstairs Bar
MondayClosed.
Tuesday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Wednesday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Thursday4:00 – 11:00 pm.
Friday4:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Saturday2:00 pm – 1:00 am.
SundayClosed.
What do you get when you marry the cosy vibes of an intimate pub with the sophistication of an inner city wine bar? You end up with the best of both worlds and the result is Downstairs on New Regent Street.
With an ever-changing food menu and wine selection, welcoming space and chic interior, it is quite easy to spend an entire afternoon or evening in this aptly appointed ‘wine pub’.
New Regent Street is no stranger to hospitality venues picking a specialisation and excelling at it. After all, Downstairs is the sister venue to Twenty Seven Steps, a beloved central city restaurant that is known for its modern and sophisticated approach to dining. Owners Emma and Paul, have taken this same tact with Downstairs and their passion for excellent service and creating an atmosphere that is full of old-world charm is apparent in every detail here.
What strikes you when you first walk up to the bar is the blackboard advertising an extensive list of wines by the glass. On any given day there are about 40 different glass pours on offer and the Downstairs philosophy on what they serve is quite simple - “it’s always wines we like made or sold by people we like”. With this approach, there’s always something new to try from both local and international labels and a range of styles from champagne to pet nat’s, traditional classics and funky naturals.
Once you’ve settled on your pour of choice, peruse the food menu, where the focus is on celebrating local ingredients and making them shine on the plate. Whether you’re after something snacky like an antipasto platter or something more hearty like the slow braise of the night, there is the perfect pairing to be found for your wine.
Open Wednesday - Saturdays, make this warm and inviting spot part of your regular after-work or weekend catch up routine.
Words by Julia Rutherford & Photography by Nancy Zhou
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
16/22 New Regent Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
Nearby Places
Paddy McNaughton's
Paddy McNaughton's is a pint-sized pub with Guinness and Magners on tap. It’s the closest thing to a Dublin pub this side of the equator. Live music every week.
Head over Heels
With New Zealand and international labels abound, expect plenty of classic shoe designs, mixed with fashion-forward options from the latest collections of top designers.
Odeon
Take one of Christchurch’s best chefs and his wealth of international experience, add his Andalusian-inspired dishes to an epic and interesting wine list, and top it all off with a sumptuous, luxe decor and you get Odeon.
The Church Pub
The Church on the corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets in the heart of the city is a cornerstone of Christchurch hospitality.
Similar Places
The Birdwood
Much-loved neighbourhood cafe by day, knock-out contemporary Italian eatery by night – The Birdwood might just be the dream local hospo joint.
Bessie
Dark, a little brooding and faultless in its theme, Bessie is an immaculate display of fine dining in the inner city.
Lyttelton Coffee Company
A quirky place humming with activity, this place is home to a coffee roastery and a cafe big on sustainability, community and authentic fare.
Little Vintage Espresso
A jewel in the Amberley crown, Little Vintage Espresso offers delicious homemade food and good coffee.