IN BRIEF

Tiny bar, big flavours, natural wines and magical times.

WHY CHOOSE THIS RESTAURANT?

Grab a stool at the bar or snag a table, either way you’ll be impressed with the authenticity and honesty of this edgy little Christchurch hotspot, where the menu meets the vibe with what feels like effortless Kiwi hospitality.

ABOUT THE FOOD

Don’t get too attached to any one dish at Londo as they are off the menu and into the archive before you know it. The great thing is that new ideas are forever rolling off the tiny pass that will constantly remind you that seasonal and local really is the best way to eat. Our visit, as winter was drawing to a close, unearthed Brussels sprouts with just the right amount of crunch, nestled within stracciatella and wild onion; richly braised leeks, oyster mushrooms and salty bacon dotted lusciously with halves of soft-boiled eggs, and a crispy-crusted pork Milanese with bitter greens and a creamy caper and chive dressing that was an extremely good time for all.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Having held a head chef position for three years at Giulio Sturla’s Cuisine Good Food Award- winning restaurant Roots in Lyttelton, it comes as no surprise that Robert Fairs knows his way around a kitchen. Now the kitchen at Londo may be ridiculously small, but that only makes the end result even more astonishing. Robert has nowhere to hide as he cooks behind the bar delivering vibrant shared plates that are extremely well thought out and leave you wanting more. You’ll be returning to Londo to eat as much as to drink.

ABOUT THE TEAM

It’s a tight team of two with beverage guru and host Harry Findlay whipping up cocktails and dishing out advice on the all-star wines. Together Robert and Harry create the kind of place that you just know they would want to go to themselves.

OF NOTE

Locals in the know regularly pop into Londo to catch up. A spot at the bar gives you opportunities to dip into the snack menu and ponder an impressive wine list that thoughtfully showcases biodynamic, natural wines or a small but banging cocktail list, while having a good chinwag.

ADDRESS:  Unit 6/2 Papanui Road, Merivale
Check website for opening hours
MAINS:   $24-$33
CONTACT:   027 340 8385
WEBSITE:   londo.bar