20 minute read

TOP WAYS TO EAT OYSTERS

DID YOU KNOW?

Oysters are a great source of protein, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins A, B and E, folate, selenium, and zinc.

People either love them or hate them, but oysters remain a prized delicacy.

Aversatile shellfi sh, they can be eaten raw or cooked, the later including fried, baked, steamed, or stewed. Some people like to swallow the oyster whole, while others prefer to chew them to savour the full fl avour. Most Kiwis prefer Blu oysters, but Pacifi c oysters, available all year round, are also popular.

FRESH

In season bought by the dozen, already shucked, and served on the half shell. Keep the juice pooled in the shell, and add a condiment such as horseradish, lemon or a wine vinegar, if desired. Tilt the wider, bottom edge part of the oyster shell to your lips, slurping in the oyster along with its juices. You can also use a tiny fork to scoop out the oyster and eat it that way instead.

FRIED

Po’boy style oyster sandwiches are also popular. Shuck the oysters, then bread and deep-fry them, and arrange on a halved baguette with pickled slaw, hot sauce, and a mayonnaise-based remoulade.

STEWED

Oyster stew comprises oysters cooked with aromatics, milk, cream, and sometimes sherry. It is typically served with tiny crackers known as oyster crackers, which may have been named after the stew.

STEAMED

If you don’t like the idea of raw oysters but also don’t want to fry them, steaming is another option. Steaming fresh oysters for about three to fi ve minutes will also help open the shells. Steamed oysters can be eaten as is, added to a hot pasta dishes or even seafood chowders. If eating on their own, try a squeeze of lemon juice, a light viniagrette, or maybe butter and chopped chives, parsley or coriander.

oysters FIVE WAYS TO EAT

GRILLED

Also known as oysters Rockefeller, grilled oysters are made by topping oysters on the half shell with butter, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then briefl y baking or grilling them. Try a few favourite toppings, being careful not to overpower the delicate taste of the oysters. Options include grilling just with butter, then adding salsa. classic toppings, or a vinegar and shallot mignonette sauce.

christmas PLA N N I N G FOR

Our work tribe holds an integral place in our lives. An Ernst and Young survey found that one third of people get their greatest sense of belonging at work, second only to their own home.

Joining together for celebrations plays an important role in promoting harmony, and the ‘Christmas do’ is the big one for workplaces and for families. With 2022 dictating so much working from home, absence due to the illnesses we’ve faced, and time out to care for loved ones, this year’s work Christmas get-together takes on added signifi cance.

Quality Hotel Elms brings people together at Christmas and no, it’s not too soon to get this organised.

Food and Beverage Services Manager Ravi Naidu says, “Plans are already in place to deck out Fig Restaurant in a chic silver and red theme, setting the scene for group festivities, and the chefs are pulling out all the stops for their bu et and set menus.”

On the night before Christmas, plenty will be stirring in the kitchen. The veggies and seafood arrive for the team to prepare the freshest dishes for Christmas Day.

With the likes of garlic and rosemary rubbed lamb leg with rich brown gravy, Akaroa salmon served with creamy curry sauce, orange and honey glazed ham with brandy pepper sauce, Christmas can’t come soon enough.

Book for your work or family group Christmas on 03 355 3577 or email ravi@qualityhotelelms.co.nz

www.qualityhotelelms.co.nz

OXFORD TERRACE

WE’RE MOVING

LATE SEPTEMBER

79 CASHEL ST

FIG RESTAURANT & BAR Papanui

From enticing, light bites to innovative, international cuisine, discover one of the best kept dining secrets of Christchurch at Fig Restaurant and Bar. Located onsite at the Quality Hotel Elms, Papanui and open daily for breakfast and dinner, we pride ourselves on fresh, local cuisine - including a range of gluten-free and vegetarian options.

456 Papanui Road, Christchurch Ph 03 352 4903 ravi@qualityhotelelms.co.nz

Find us on: www.figrestaurant.co.nz

ODDFELLOWS CAFÉ Addington

Owner/Operator Joel brings his love of hospitality to this well established neighbourhood cafe. Alongside his experienced team they deliver consistently great coffee and fresh food made in-house, enjoyed in Oddfellows’ comfy atmosphere, whether you’re indoors or out in their generous sunny courtyard. Monday-Friday 7.30am-3.00pm.

5 Disraeli St, Addington

MANDEVILLE STREET KITCHEN Riccarton

Welcome to Spring! Come in and enjoy fresh seasonal salads, changing daily. Vegan, gluten free and keto options available, and fantastic coffee as always. Eat in, takeaway and catering available. Easily accessible, with parking directly outside.

4/57 Mandeville Street, Riccarton Ph. 03 343 6394

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MANDEVILLE STREET KITCHEN

FRIENDLY FANTAIL Canterbury

Boost your bod this spring with Friendly Fantail’s multi award winning – and super yummy – ALL organic Turmeric Latte spice mixes. Jam packed with goodness and with absolutely no nasties, our products are a super healthy, caffeine free alternative to a tea or coffee. Quick and easy to make at home and superb value as each packet makes up to 80 lattes - making each drink just 44 cents*.

*Based on our $35 turmeric latte packet.

PIQUENIQUE CAFE Timaru

You are invited to a picnic at our place! A whole new twist on a picnic - where you get to share a meal, nature and human interaction catered by us. Our indoor or outdoor flow areas are open, with a laid back communal feel. Our aim is to feed everyone, we have an all inclusive approach to food. Vegan/vegetarian, keto, gluten free, diabetic friendly etc. Menu changes seasonally.

The Complex, 300 Hilton Highway, Washdyke, Timaru Ph: 027 397 9787

Find us on: www.piquenique.co.nz

SEISMIC CIDER Canterbury

Kia ora Canterbury welcome to the pleasures of Seismic Cider. We are a family run boutique cidery based in the beautiful Horotane Valley producing award winning, modern, new world cider made with hand pressed local heritage apples. Not too sweet, not too strong, just the way cider should be. Taste, enjoy and relax.

INDIAN ROOTS Halswell

Indian Roots. Well, it’s a Love Story. It’s been a decade of nostalgia and yet hard to forget the fragrance of fresh grounded spices by the streets, those aromatic flavours of Old-Delhi dishes and the endless whistles of the pressure cooker. Our love for food and passion for the right flavours encouraged us to present Indian Roots, a brand with a vision to create memories through great food and people.

1 Hamill Road, Halswell Ph. 03 261 9260

Find us on: www.indianroots.co.nz

FOUR AVES COFFEE Phillipstown

Welcome to Vinyl Café. Come in and try our own Four Aves roasted coffee. We have fresh daily cabinet food as well as “Roast your own” coffee available. Relax to some great music, play some “old school” video games or just read a magazine. Support small locally owned and operated business.

24/B Essex Street, Phillipstown Ph 027 543 1877

FORMOSA Ashburton

Formosa afternoon tea available every Friday and Saturday.

To find out more about Formosa, just scan QR code to the right. Open Tue-Sat only.

173 West Street, Ashburton Ph 03 308 7874 info@formosainash.com

Find us on: www.formosainash.com

FISHERMAN’S WHARF Lyttelton

Come and dine with us at Fisherman’s Wharf with some of NZ’s freshest seafood and best views. Fisherman’s Wharf is in the heart of Lyttelton over looking the working port - the view is top class and forever changing. A very relaxing nautical vibe. Now offering a beautiful breakfast menu on Saturday and Sunday mornings!

CHEESE BAR Christchurch Central

Calling all cheese lovers! One visit to this Cheese Bar and it’ll soon become your new favourite go-to spot for cheese, food, wine, and more. Bring a date, a few friends, or simply head here to treat yourself (and your taste buds). We aim to please with cheese! Whether you are coming to us for your first visit or are one of our regulars, your experience with us will always be unforgettable.

87 Kilmore Street, Christchurch at Fino Hotel Ph. 027 779 9863

Find us on: www.cheesebar.co.nz

AREWÀ TREATS COCKTAIL CANDIES

Love cocktails? You will love our gourmet cocktail candies just for adults. Try our tropical cocktail range, from Pina Coladas and Margaritas to lip-smacking Cosmopolitan gummies. We have these and a selection of other flavours, perfect for your next occasion!

Available at selected stores or online at www.arewatreats.co.nz

CAFE MAYFIELD Mayfield

If you are looking for coffee on the go or a gourmet meal. Cafe Mayfield is the stop for you. Dine in or takeaway here as you go through the beautiful Mid Canterbury scenic route. We provide a diverse menu, including barista coffee, all day breakfast, Sally’s homemade sausage rolls, fish and chips, and much much more. Make us your next stop for the whole family; we even have a playground for the kids!

1992 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Rd, Mayfield Ph: 03 303 6210

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THE FINE LION Ashburton

The Fine Lion welcomes you to Ashburton with a relaxed atmosphere and a delectable menu for casual dining. Drop in for a meal with friends, a snack or a drink at the bar - check out the full cocktail menu! Our very popular private outdoor, heated balcony area is the place to be seen all year-round. Drop in and see what everyone is talking about.

Level 1, 152 Burnett St, Ashburton Ph. 03 307 0629

Find us on: www.thefinelion.co.nz

COSY CAFÉ Casebrook

Located on Cavendish Road, locally owned café with a wide range of homemade cabinet food, full breakfast, brunch and lunch menu available. Providing gluten free options and can cater for any other dietary requirements on request. Enjoy our Hummingbird roasted coffee blend made by our experienced baristas. Open 6 days, Mon-Sat 7am–4pm.

24/150 Cavendish Road,

Casebrook Ph. 03 352 0412 COSY CAFE Find us on:

THE SOUL QUARTER Central City

Experience the warm and inviting atmosphere of Soul Quarter, with fairy-lit summer courtyard dining and candlelit evening and winter dining by the fire. The talented head chef has put his whole heart into every dish he creates, celebrating local, fresh and seasonal produce with incredible flavours and plenty of options for those with dietary requirements.

MAISON de CREPE Merivale

Introducing our NEW Romantic French High Tea! A sophisticated and decadent experience to dress up for! You will receive a delicious array of perfect French patisseries including savoury mini croissants, bite-size crepe scrolls, macarons, petite French cheesecakes and choux buns with a hot drink AND a glass of French bubbles for just $49. 48hrs notice essential. 2 people min. Book online or call 355 8882

106 Papanui Road, Merivale Ph 03 355 8882 mdcnzmerivale@gmail.com

Find us on: www.maisondecrepes.co.nz

HUMDINGER GIN Geraldine

A winter warmer, our award-winning gin matured in a used bourbon barrel is the perfect end to the day.

Enjoyed neat or with a splash of ginger ale it is unique and special thanks to the balance of gin, bourbon and American Oak flavours.

Drop by Humdinger Distillery for a free tasting today, or order from our website or from a listed stockist.

SPRIG + FERN Merivale

Merivale’s Best Little Local. Call in to discover the relaxed, friendly atmosphere (no TVs, just board games!) with 18 craft beers and ciders, a host of wines, spirits and non-alc, plus exceptional meals. Takeaways (food/beer) available. Gold Card lunches Fri-Sun. Dog friendly. Open Tues-Thurs from 3:30pm, Fri-Sun from midday.

7 St Albans Street, Merivale Ph: 03 260 0015 merivale@sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

Find us on: sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

BUNCO’S Amberley

Whether you are passing through Amberley or looking for a great destination café to visit, you’ll be made to feel welcome at Bunco’s. A locally owned family business, we take pride in making everything on-site including brioche burger buns, pies, homemade ice cream and sweet treats in the cabinet. We have a great selection of gluten-free pies and slices too!

Open 7 days: Mon-Wed 6am-4pm Thurs-Fri 6am-8pm Sat 7am-8pm, Sun 8am-8pm 47 Carters Road, Amberley Ph 03 423 6285

Find us on: info@buncos.co.nz

THE ELMWOOD Strowan

Eat - Drink - Play New Menu - Daily Specials • Functions • Quiz Nights • Meetings! Superb food, great prices. Ample free parking! Your new local! Open 7 Days 10am til Late HNZ Excellence 2022 WINNER ‘Best Local’

1 Normans Road, Strowan Ph: 03 355 5345

Find us on: www.theelmwood.co.nz

DALCHINI TASTE OF INDIA Leeston

The most exciting news ever for Leeston Indian food connoisseurs! The first Indian restaurant in the Leeston area. Our brand new restaurant is serving delicious Indian cuisine inspired by all elements that make this food the best available. Dine In & Takeaway (Leeston delivery available). Open 7 days. Lunch 11.30am – 2pm. Dinner 4.30pm – 9pm

MONA VALE HOMESTEAD Fendalton

Mona Vale Homestead’s charming Pantry is in its last weeks of winter hours and ready to open 5 days from Wed 28 September! Your choice of moreish brunch or lunch offers or perhaps treat yourself to a High Tea experience! Book for an inside table or meet your friends on the patio overlooking the Avon for a relaxing afternoon.

40 Mona Vale Avenue, Fendalton Ph: 03 341 7450 gather@monavale.nz

Find us on: www.monavale.nz

PERCIVAL STREET BAKERY Rangiora

Rangiora’s best kept secret! Honest freshly made bakery goods including speciality breads, deli and sweet options to fill your cravings. Be sure to pick up your daily coffee with easy parking options and the peaceful Victoria Park is just over the road. Your favourite local bakery.

138 Percival Street, Rangiora Ph: 03 310 6096

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SWEET SOCIÉTÉ Sydenham

Stocking the well-known French-inspired J’aime Les Macarons. She Universe Chocolates, Italian Gelato, and mouth- watering freshly creamed donuts. Sweet Société offers a twist of European tea, French Baked Cheese Cakes, meringues, and more. With a wide range of gluten-free treats, you can be sure to find something for the whole family. All freshly baked and delivered daily. Open 7 Days.

356 Colombo Street, Sydenham (inside Colombo Mall) Ph 03 365 2771

Find us on: www.sweetsociete.co.nz

THE GOLDEN MILE TAVERN Templeton

The Golden Mile Tavern has a family-friendly restaurant in the heart of Templeton and offers a consistent standard of delicious meals using locally sourced produce. Our restaurant is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, we also open for breakfast from 9am on weekends and serve a Roast every Sunday. Pop onto our website or Facebook for more information!

JUNIPER JINN

A new take on Gin. Deliciously dry with lots of up-front Juniper. Perfect as a Jinn and Tonic or Dry Martini. 3 different bottle sizes, free delivery nationwide. Order online or have a taste and pick-up a bottle at a Farmers Market near you. Dates on Facebook.

Ph: 022 197 1608

Find us on: www.juniperdistillery.com

TWENTYFOUR CATERING Canterbury

Take the work out of your next dinner party. Providing a genuine customer-focused experience using natural products, delivered by our family-focused team. • Private Functions • Weddings • Events • Consulting & Temp Chefs

THE CHINA KITCHEN Papanui

We make the freshest and best authentic Chinese food to delight your palate and feed your soul. Our food is made with healthy ingredients using our very own recipes. Try our homemade Dumplings, made fresh for you everyday. No MSG. Gluten free options available. Dine-in or takeaway + Menulog and UberEats. BYO wine & fully licensed. Open Tues to Sat 11.30am-9.30pm, Sun 11.30am-9pm.

21a Main North Rd, Papanui Ph. 03 354 6818

Find us on: www.chinakitchen.co.nz

NAWAB EATERY Methven

Your best ski field, or hot pools visit can only end perfectly with a delicious authentic Indian Cuisine experience at our cosy restaurant in Methven. Nawab Eatery is the perfect place for visitors and locals to celebrate together and eat the best authentic Indian Cuisine. Dine In & Take Away Lunch - 11.30am to 2pm, Dinner - 4.30pm to 9pm Open 7 Days

12 TAPS CIDER HOUSE City

Always look on the “Bright Cider” Life! Open Now – with all the “core” elements of your favourite UK Cider bar and now serving delicious Cider with a ton of atmosphere and bar menu available. The only craft cider bar in the South Island. The place to be for any true cider lover or to enjoy your favourite tipple. Cheers – we look forward to seeing you. Open Wed 3pm-11pm Thurs-Sun 11am-11pm

150 Lichfield Street, Christchurch

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FLIPS CATERING Canterbury

Let us help you make your Cup Week Races truly memorable this year with a delicious Car Boot Picnic Hamper. Impress your friends and family with delicious easy to eat treats… we’ll do the work; you simply enjoy it! A Hamper to suit every budget. Mention you saw this Advert in Metropol for a 10% discount

LAKEHOUSE RESTAURANT Lake Hood - Ashburton

A stunning lake side restaurant and functions venue, open for lunch and dinner. Enjoy our NEW fully covered and heated dining area on the deck for the ultimate in lakeside dining with beautiful views over the lake to the alps. The perfect venue for functions – weddings, family celebrations or a day trip for lunch. 5mins off the main highway from Ashburton.

Lake Hood Drive, Lake Hood, Ashburton Ph 03 302 6064 info@lakehouselakehood.co.nz

Find us on: www.lakehouselakehood.co.nz

SALMON HEAVEN Bush Inn (inside)

Tired of all the wet, cold weather – time to entertain! Come & visit us for all your entertainment needs – salmon, blinis, cheese, pickles, prawns and much more. See you soon. Check out our website with free delivery NZ wide or if visiting Auckland come and see us at Salmon Heaven, 124 Parnell Road.

The Provedore Bush Inn Centre Ph. 0800 222 811

Find us on: www.salmonheaven.nz

IN SITU CAFE Opawa

Best breakfast ever! You are definitely “in situ - on-site” for the best breakfast and best coffee in Christchurch at our café. Porridge with berry compote and almond or grilled banana and candied walnuts or choose your favourite morning dish off our menu. Made fresh on site with healthy options as well as your traditional favourites like streaky bacon full breakfast, mince on toast and eggs benedict.

239 Opawa Road, Hillsborough Ph. 03 332 8587

Find us on: www.insitucafe.co.nz

TWO FAT POSSUMS West Melton

Gold Card Lunches Mon-Fri Mon/Tue Wood-fired pizzas $20 Tues Quiz night - free entry & prizes Wednesday $15 Burgers Thursday Rib night $20 Sunday $10 Waffles Function Room - fundraisers/private functions Takeaways available. Open 7 days: 11.30am-late

Weedons Ross Road, West Melton Village Ph 03 421 6481

Find us on: www.twofatpossums.co.nz

THE POP TOP Sydenham

The Pop Top is a fresh new coffee cart based in the collaborative, creative space of TyanHaus. Manager, Ruben returns home with a goal after years honing his craft in London’s speciality coffee industry... to bring colour, brightness, and sweetness to Otautahi’s coffee scene. Open in TyanHaus Mon-Fri 8-2, Sat 10-4, with skateboarding, basketball and disc golf to enjoy!

TyanHaus 6 Carlyle St, Sydenham E: ruben@tyan.haus

Find us on: thepoptop.haus

MOSAIC BY SIMO Addington

Being NZ’s first authentic Moroccan Restaurant, we feel a great responsibility to introduce our guests to the wonderful flavours and hospitality of Morocco and provide an unforgettable dining experience. Savour the many layers of herbs and spices, infused oils and fragrant waters, the sweetness of syrups, honeyed fruits and nuts, the pungent saltiness of preserved lemons and olives. So, take time to share the pleasure of eating at Mosaic by Simo.

Shop 3/300 Lincoln Rd, Addington. Ph: 03 338 2882

Find us on: www.mosaicbysimo.co.nz

PROTOCOL Cashmere

Join us at Protocol where our Head Chef Roi has created a new seasonal menu using locally-sourced ingredients served in a modern way with a Mediterranean twist. Featuring a lamb shoulder for two and a beef bourguignon hot pot, you will not want to miss out on trying these. Open Tuesday to Sunday, we look forward to seeing you soon.

2 Colombo St, Cashmere Ph. 03 964 2880

Find us on: www.protocolbar.co.nz

FORTH LUCK GIN Canterbury

Located in the Cust hills of Canterbury, New Zealand. The vision started with a love of distilling and creating. Organically sourced botanicals, no nasty chemicals or flavour enhancers. This results in a high-quality multi-award winning gin collection. Made in small batches, providing a quality and personal experience of full flavour gins with love from the Forth Luck family.

PENNY BLACK VICTORIAN TEAROOM The Tannery

It’s a destination reminiscent of a time when ‘taking tea’ in a fine establishment was an occasion. Indulge in a Traditional High Tea this festive season. Birthdays, anniversaries, bridals and baby showers are all catered for and will be made into memorable affairs where you’re treated like a Royal. Book your high tea today!

37/3 Garlands Rd, Woolston Ph: 03 381 3445

Find us on: www.pennyblack.nz

RIVERSIDE KITCHEN Central Christchurch

We are now taking bookings for end of year get togethers. Whether it be a private dining experience, cooking class, team building “Masterchef Challenge”, or one of our other amazing options, we have the package available to suit your needs. Treat your team and/or clients to a memorable culinary event at Riverside Kitchen.

Upstairs - Riverside Market Cnr Lichfield St & Oxford Tce Ph 021 168 7209