Review Inati - Christchurch

Sean Oliver

One of the most amazing restaurants I've been too. Beautiful food, lovely service. If you find yourself in Christchurch, then this place is a must. The duck trumpet is a must, but if you just trust them they will serve you something delightful each time :)

Carl K

Best restaurant we have been to in NZ so far! By no surprise it’s also the most expensive, but worth every penny. The ambiance, service, the food quality is all too notch. Service staff are friendly, welcoming, and most importantly professional. The menu design is very unique, all dishes are designed to be share between two people, very innovative and tradition at the same time. The food really demonstrates their care and the skill of the chef, nothing on their menu is easily duplicable or common, which make them very impressive and unforgettable. We really enjoyed our celebration and will be happy to come back one day.

Charmaine Ng

We absolutely loved our experience at Inati. We got the "trust us 6 plates" and it was such a great choice. The highlight for me was the smoked venison and haggis, while my husband enjoyed the crispy artichoke the most. We also relished being able to observe the chef and his team preparing our plates, with our seats at the chef's table. The atmosphere at Inati was also so welcoming, despite it being a fine dining restaurant. We felt so at home the moment we stepped in, with a warm welcome by the funny and friendly Angela, and we even had the chance to speak to the chef Simon a couple of times. (Thank you for putting up with our questions while you were all busy preparing our plates!) All in all, it was truly an unforgettable experience and the perfect way to cap off our honeymoon on the South Island. We'll definitely be back.

Nic Pethig

Wow, seriously, just WOW! Food, awesome! And specifically asked for, heard and cooked around our specific allergies, trust the chef(s) Atmosphere, amazing! We were welcomed from the door, and treated as special guests, attentive and welcoming, no pressure to get in and out - created a brilliant experience. Staff, Outstanding! From our bartender in the lounge area, to Matthew creating the story around the food and drink (matched), this is one of the best dining experiences I've had (globally) and all in little ole Christchurch! Highly recommend booking!

Quintin Smith

Where to start… This was quite the culinary journey. From the warm and welcoming reception from staff to the little details like having your coats hung up or noticing the staff rinsing empty cans for recycling (go you guys!) this venue was solid throughout. Especially loved the beautiful brass countertop on the chefs table. We ordered the 8 plates menu option, and had a pescatarian in the group which was accommodated with ease from the BOH. These guys knew what they were doing, each dish was distinct from the last and the flavours used were so different from how you’d normally encounter them. I can’t tell you much more than that, other than to not eat that arvo and definitely treat yourself to the 8 plates. My favourite dish was the leek extravaganza… Awesome use of fresh, in-season, locally sourced produce. Great range of vino and superb cocktails on offer as well. Will be back for sure. Thank you for the kind touch with the happy birthday coconut dessert at the end, what a great spot for a special occasion 🎉👏

Wayne Giles

We chose this place because we knew we would gain experience and we did. They give you a good view of your kitchen in action. The dishes were well done and tasted great, our two favorites were the first two we had, the fish fillet in curry leaves and the duck trumpet with blackberry sauce. We picked a nice 2018 Pegasus Bay red. If you want a full dining and immersive experience, this is a great place to visit.

Ngaio Prince

An incredible culinary experience, with impeccable service and atmosphere. The servers were 11/10 professional, and their knowledge of menu items were flawless. Special mention to Joe who’s service was standout. Highly recommend doing the “trust us” with wine pairing, to experience wine that you wouldn’t necessarily have ever tried before, beautifully balanced dishes an absolute must for every foodie.

Sophie Fearn

Wow! Where do I start .. this is hands down one of the best restaurants/experiences I have ever been to. Their service was top notch, the food TO DIE FOR … the whole evening was 10/10 I absolutely can’t wait to go back. There’s also this great energy in there that you can feel, like everyone gets along really well and are happy. I loved that the food came out slowly like you were on a journey .. it was just so enjoyable thank you so much. My fiancé and I had an incredible date night.

Nick

My god, Inati was the most amazing experience I've ever had in a restaurant. And I don't say that lightly. Each dish was made to perfection and beautifully presented! Thier "trust us" tasting menu was definitely the best option. Such nice variety in all of these unique flavours and food combinations that you would never expect! I would say its well worth checking out at least once or more. I had such a lovely time with my family and will definitely be back next time I'm with them.

Mike Salter

We had a superb experience at Inati. The food was delicious, fresh with so many unique tastes. The lamb carpaccio was exceptional as were the asparagus and the broccoli. The star for us was the octopus - splendid. The staff were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. There was just the right amount of energy and vibe. An outstanding evening overall.

Elora Walmisley

Absolutely amazing! We had the eight plate trust the chef menu and the food was exceptional. Interesting flavours, varied dishes, and everything cooked to perfection. Particular standouts were the Black Pepper Octopus and the Duck Trumpets. We also had two cocktails which were both great. In total we spent $350 for two people. It's not cheap, but one of the best places I've been to at that price point. The service was also top notch, friendly staff who were happy to answer questions about the menu. We sat at the bar and so were able to watch the food being made which I loved. The staff are clearly invested in ensuring the guests are enjoying themselves, and encouraged us to eat a few dishes with our hands. Didn't feel like a pretentious restaurant at all, and we were very comfortable! The atmosphere is lovely, music not too loud, chairs comfortable, good vibes. It's a small place and you can have a cocktail in their lounge to start as well. The bar chairs are a little tricky to get in and out of. If you have trouble with mobility I'd recommend requesting to be seated at a table at time of booking.

Jason Wills

Incredible experience. Our favourite restaurant in Christchurch, if not New Zealand. The menu changes frequently to match the seasons. The front of house service is friendly, knowledgeable and professional. Local produce mixed with local wines makes for an experience not to be missed. And to finish off, the restaurant is literally a chefs table on steroids. You are right amongst the action while the chefs prepare what can only be described as the best meal you will ever have. Highly recommended. 5 stars.

Alain Chan

Good concept of sharing with creative dishes while bringing simplicity to the next level. The 8 plates trust us menu was good, service tempo was spot on and the staffs are really attentive. Particularly liked the duck trumpets and the heirloom tomato dish. Both were executed perfectly while there are a few dishes that feel a little bit pale in comparison. Not sure how they determine the order of dishes in the trust us menu, but it would be better in my opinion if it's planned properly to slowly layer the flavors and build expectations. The order we got was like a roller coaster ride of emotions. Especially right after having a strong tasting dish, we were served an elegant subtle tasting dish that just stood in the shadow of the previous dish. Overall dining experience was great and looking forward to visit again for new surprises. PS: thanks for the good gesture and great experience Inati provided for me and my partner on our special day.

Brie Liberty

Inanti is definitely an experience and one that I would love to repeat. The furniture and crockery are on point making a stylish but relaxed atmosphere. The staff we’re all friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The only slight hesitation I had was that we seldom got the same server and being served by four different people stunted some of the natural flow and enjoyment of service. Having one waiter may elevated this experience to another level that we haven’t experienced since dining overseas… all of the servers in their own right were wonderful. The negroni cocktail was delicious and there was a nice selection of wines. The food is what would bring me back. Delicious! We sampled duck, corn, crayfish and venison. Everything was cooked to perfection. We loved the crumpet and the crayfish dish. They were delicious and unique- bringing some real memories of kiwi culture but taking them to the next level. Would definitely recommend & return. Thanks.

Laura Foley

We had 6 courses with wine match. All of the wines were beautiful. Food was superb. Recommend for a special event.

Alicia Kissick

Trust the chef option is a great way to try a bit of everything and you’ll leave very satisfied. Such creative plates loaded with interesting flavours you won’t find anywhere else like it. It’s certainly an experience

JaeHee Chang

I will get on the 10+hr long flight again to dine at the restaurant again. -- We had 3 small dishes and 1 large dish to share (INATI). The dishes were innovative and unusual. The brocolli and cauliflower creams on those small dishes were just amazing. The lamb prosciutto was a bit to strong to have it as the 1st dish. It would have been bette for us if it came later in the course. Plating was also very nice. Couldn't stop taking the pictures. We had a glass of wine each, recommended by the staff. Paired well with the dishes. -- We booked online and received confirmation email almost immediately. It was a good user experience. -- The restaurant had a long bar area with 16+ seats and about 4 tables for 4 persons. I liked the interior design as well. Gold and black but still felt bright. We were seated at the bar and had some good chats with the chefs and staffs. Open kitchen at the other side of the bar was good since we got to see our dishes getting ready. Thank you for the memorable dining experience.

s s

Well deserved to be a one hat restaurant, not more, not less. According to the Maori dictionary, inati means to share, as well as extraordinary. I was there for a quiet lunch all by myself. It was almost 2 when I arrived. They sat me at the chef's table, I was entertained by the beautiful food and the busy kitchen scenes. The stool was high and hard to get on. I enjoyed the set menu, which I was told nothing about, but wait to be surprised. It's very well priced and saved patron trouble from going through the menu at a very late lunch. I recommend.

Tim Martin

Could not say better things about Inati. We sat at the chefs table and had such a great talk with Simon and his lovely wife Lisa. The food was to die for every dish was just fantastic but the tartar was our favourite. If I could give 6 stars I would. I'm at a loss now I'm home in Brisbane, I can't wait to go back.

Chris Benson

Had a fab dinner at INATI last night, wonderful to be able to watch the chef's in action and talk to them as they do their thing, and then find you're talking to the owner / boss / head chef about wine, food and stuff was really wonderful. Best wishes Simon and Lisa, your place rocks. Can't recommend it more !!!

Merv Orford

Cant recommend Inati enough. Been praising to all friends and workmates for last two days. This place is one too add on the list of "must do,s" in Christchurch. Even if you only visit once (which will be hard) you MUST just to say you have been. Cant wait to return.

Cara Mooney

There are so many wonderful things we could say about our evening at Inati...the setting is warm and welcoming, to be able to sit and watch the chefs from the chefs table added to the experience and the food was all a-mazing! "Trust the chef" is the way to go....relax and enjoy good food, wine, great service and wait for the next plate to arrive - delicious! We'll be back.

Amanda Condon

Without a doubt the best restaurant in Christchurch! The most delicious food, exceptional staff, and fantastic ambience! the prix fixe is a fantastic introduction to the unique menu. Making the next booking as we're paying for the first meal indicates how much we loved it :) Can't wait to be back next month!

Jude Ryan

Our meal last night was a wonderful dining experience. I definitely would recommend the shared plating - the flavours & overall food design on beautiful plates was superb. Not to mention the matching wine. Simon & Lisa we congratulate you both on your dedication & success with Inati.

William Chase

Had a great meal the other night! The restaurant has a simple and sophisticated decor, some of the best service I’ve had at a restaurant in Christchurch , great location and of course the food was amazing!

Marion Ogier

Wonderful food and wine combos. Great experience at the chefs table watching the meals being prepared and nice to interact with them. Only negative are the chairs. Short people your legs will dangle and it gets a bit uncomfortable after awhile. Probably safer to choose a table. Particularly liked the pigs head and strawberry dishes.

Rachael Lonsdale

Fabulous lunch with delicious, seasonal food and beautiful surrounds. Attention to detail on everything and superb wine list. Clearly passionate owners will be back for dinner!

Michelle Lawson

Amazing food, fantastic atmosphere, superb staff and hospitality, and a must visit.

Beth Wood

I had the most amazing dining experience at Inati last night. I’ve had the pleasure of dining at many establishments and having met many chefs around the world but nothing quite like this. I loved talking to Simon (executive head chef) whilst dining aswell as having the chefs deliver some of our meals. We had 8 different dishes in total and even though I don’t eat meat (excluding fish) or dairy I could still eat 6 of those!!! Can’t wait to go back and try more. P.S. after sharing 5 different plates with my partner, instead of ordering dessert I had to order the clams again because I loved it so much.

Jacob Stanley

Fantastic food and service! Highly recommend. Will definitely be back. Thank you.

Tina McCormack

Had the most awesome meal here this week. The service from the team was great. Was there for 3 hours sharing yummy and creative plates. A must try!!

Kevin Steenson

Best meal I have ever had! I highly recommend the trust us menu.

Ben Campbell

I can't get enough of this amazing kitchen. Perfectly balanced dishes, beautiful presentation and top class service. I've been twice and will be back many times again I'm sure .. 5 stars both visits

Fran Allen

Wonderful meal, excellent service. Will go again ne t time we are in Christchurch. Excellent Central Otago Pinot Noir also.

Hannah Small

Outstanding! Every dish was absolutely delicious. Simon and Lisa, you guys are rockstars! Fantastic service and a refreshing take on kiwi cuisine. 10/10

Eliza Hamilton

Had dinner there last night just loved it....the Duck trumpets & blackberry jam where to die for.....

Sarah Mcelrea

Christchurch is so lucky to have Inati! The food is exceptional, service outstanding, cool decor and an awesome evening out! The goose trumpets and boeuf nuts were to die for!! We will be back, and soon!!