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Riverside Market

4.7
·7k reviews·Christchurch, New Zealand

A bustling indoor market in Christchurch offering a vast array of local and international food, artisan goods, and riverside dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Lunchtimes

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Riverside Market - Image 1

Riverside Market

Best Time

Weekday Lunchtimes

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling indoor market in Christchurch offering a vast array of local and international food, artisan goods, and riverside dining.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"An absolute gem with incredible food options, from fresh produce to gourmet burgers and dumplings!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore All Levels

Don't just stick to the main food hall; discover specialty shops and seating on upper floors. :world_map:

🍽️ Mix & Match Meals

Perfect for groups! Everyone can pick from different vendors and eat together. :forkandknifewithplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Global Flavors Under One Roof

Global Flavors Under One Roof

Food Hall

Indulge in a culinary journey with everything from pizza and sushi to dumplings and Greek street food.

Artisan Produce & Goods

Artisan Produce & Goods

Ground Floor Retail

Discover locally sourced food, artisan bread, specialty groceries, and unique gifts.

Riverside Views

Riverside Views

Outdoor Seating Area

Enjoy your meal with picturesque views of the Avon River, a perfect spot to relax.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Variety

Riverside Market is a foodie's paradise with diverse vendors. Plan to explore multiple stalls for a true taste of local and international flavors. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully savor the experience.

Location & Logistics

Situated by the Avon River, Riverside Market offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Check vendor hours, as some retail shops may close earlier on certain days, especially Fridays. The upper floors offer great views and restrooms.

Best Times

When
Weekday Lunchtimes
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Friday Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, food focus
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Mornings
Why
Fresh produce, early buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Riverside Market has such a great feel on a Sat afternoon. A blessing and a curse I think it’s drained a lot of foot traffic from other Hospo areas struggling around cbd?

🎯 Explore All Levels

Don't just stick to the main food hall; discover specialty shops and seating on upper floors. :world_map:

🍽️ Mix & Match Meals

Perfect for groups! Everyone can pick from different vendors and eat together. :forkandknifewithplate:

reddit.com

What restaurants/takeout do you recommend in riverside market?

reddit.com

Help me extending my Christchurch Must Go Places please!

☕ Coffee & Pastries

Grab a coffee and delicious pastry from the dedicated shop for a sweet treat. :coffee:

🍷 Wine Tasting

Sample local wines and spirits available for tasting in the main hall. :wine_glass:

reddit.com

Riverside Christchurch, New Zealand

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore All Levels

Don't just stick to the main food hall; discover specialty shops and seating on upper floors. :world_map:

🍽️ Mix & Match Meals

Perfect for groups! Everyone can pick from different vendors and eat together. :forkandknifewithplate:

☕ Coffee & Pastries

Grab a coffee and delicious pastry from the dedicated shop for a sweet treat. :coffee:

🍷 Wine Tasting

Sample local wines and spirits available for tasting in the main hall. :wine_glass:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll by the River

Enjoy the scenic outdoor area and views of the Avon River. :river:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Riverside Market for its incredible variety of food options, vibrant atmosphere, and pleasant riverside location. It's lauded as a must-visit for foodies and a great spot for groups to enjoy diverse cuisines together. Some minor points of feedback include potential crowds during peak times and varying retail shop hours.

"Great place to explore with lots of variety! Indoor and outdoor spaces are both really nice. Plenty of food options to try — highly recommend the Beef Steak Souvlaki. Worth a visit!"

Jay D Vera

"What a great place for an incredible variety of food! Love this place cause you can grab a pizza, followed up with sushi, have a whiskey tasting, then eat some of the most delicious cookies you’ve ever had. It’s reminiscent of the legendary Chelsea Market in New York City.

I definitely plan to return here whenever I’m in Christchurch."

Ben Rich

"We were in Christchurch for a couple days and we love this Riverside market for our lunch place!
Plenty of options to choose from and got everything from snacks, mains, desserts, and drinks. There are wine tasting down in the main hall, coffee and pastry shop in the food section and a couple local produced on the ground floor. As a food hall, great seats with view on the upper floors and a proper bathroom available right next to the market office on the second floor. We loved that we can eat different things and sit and enjoyed it together. We tried Raman from Cluck Cluck Slurp, Dosa Kitchen, Chicken Empire, Sushi train, Great Pastry shop, Empire coffee.
Definitely a recommendation to visit for meals!"

Penny Gaffney

What People Like

Amazing food variety
Vibrant atmosphere
Riverside views

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Retail hours vary

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Riverside Market is centrally located in Christchurch. Many visitors find it easily accessible by walking from the city center. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby. Parking can be found in surrounding car parks, though it may be busy during peak times. Reddit

Yes, there are several car parks in the vicinity of Riverside Market. It's advisable to check parking apps or signs for availability and rates, as it can get busy, especially on weekends and evenings. Reddit

Cycling is a great option as Christchurch has good cycle lanes. There are usually bike racks available near the market, making it a convenient way to arrive. :bike:

Absolutely! Riverside Market is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop within a short walking distance, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city. :bus:

The best way is to wander through all levels and stalls. Take your time to sample different foods, browse the shops, and enjoy the atmosphere. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience. :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Riverside Market is free. You only pay for the food, drinks, or goods you purchase from the vendors. :ticket:

Riverside Market generally operates daily, but specific vendor hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times, especially for retail shops which may close earlier than food vendors. Reddit

Riverside Market often hosts events, live music, and themed nights. Keep an eye on their social media channels for announcements about upcoming activities. :microphone:

Yes, Riverside Market vouchers are available and can be a great way to sample different offerings. Check their website for purchasing options and redemption details. :gift:

There is no admission fee for the restaurants or eateries within Riverside Market. You pay directly for your food and drinks. :moneywithwings:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Riverside Market boasts an incredible variety of food, including pizza, sushi, ramen, dosas, burgers, dumplings, Greek souvlaki, pastries, and more. It's a true culinary melting pot. Reddit

Yes, many vendors offer vegetarian and vegan options. You'll find dedicated stalls and dishes across various cuisines that cater to these dietary needs. :leafy_green:

You can get both! From quick snacks and coffee to full meals like ramen or souvlaki, Riverside Market caters to all appetites. Reddit

Absolutely! There are ample seating areas, including communal tables in the food hall and outdoor seating with river views. The upper floors also provide comfortable dining spaces. Reddit

Highly recommended are the Beef Steak Souvlaki, ramen from Cluck Cluck Slurp, and delicious cookies. The variety means there's something new to discover with every visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant food stalls, the bustling atmosphere, and the scenic views of the Avon River from the outdoor seating areas. The architecture of the market itself is also photogenic. :camerawithflash:

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and vendors, and always ask permission before taking close-up shots of people or their products. :iphone:

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting, especially with the market lights coming on. Weekday lunchtimes provide good activity without overwhelming crowds. :sunriseovermountains:

Look for the colorful displays of produce, the artful presentation of food, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers. The riverside setting provides a picturesque backdrop. :art:

Drone photography is generally not permitted within enclosed public spaces like markets due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local bylaws before flying drones. :noentrysign:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Riverside Market is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The wide variety of food options means even picky eaters can find something they'll enjoy. Many vendors offer kid-friendly portions or simpler dishes. The communal seating areas make it easy for families to dine together, and the open layout allows kids some space to move around. TikTok

Look for stalls with familiar favorites like pizza or burgers, and don't miss the sweet treats from the pastry shops. The riverside location also offers a pleasant outdoor space for a post-meal stroll. Restrooms are conveniently located on the upper floors. :stroller:

💰 Budget Travelers

While some vendors offer gourmet options, Riverside Market also caters to budget-conscious travelers. You can find affordable and delicious meals by exploring the diverse food stalls. Sharing dishes or opting for smaller bites can help manage costs. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday lunchtimes when deals might be more prevalent. The free entry means you only spend on what you consume, making it easier to control your budget. Look for vendors offering hearty portions at reasonable prices. :money_bag:

couples

Riverside Market offers a vibrant and engaging experience for couples. Enjoy a 'food crawl' where you each pick different dishes from various vendors to share, creating a unique tasting journey together. The lively atmosphere provides a fun backdrop for conversation. Instagram

For a more relaxed outing, grab a coffee and pastry and enjoy the riverside views from the outdoor seating. In the evenings, the market takes on a different charm with a buzzing ambiance, perfect for a casual date night. :heart:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Adventure

Riverside Market is celebrated as a premier destination for food lovers in Christchurch. It brings together an impressive array of vendors offering everything from local produce and artisan bread to international street food. Visitors rave about the ability to sample diverse cuisines, with options like ramen, sushi, Greek souvlaki, and gourmet burgers all available under one roof. This makes it an ideal spot for groups or families where everyone can choose their own culinary adventure. Reddit

The market also features specialty shops selling local wines, craft beers, and unique pantry items, alongside cafes offering excellent coffee and pastries. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the sheer variety, ensures a memorable dining experience. It's often compared to renowned food halls in other major cities, highlighting its quality and scope. Reddit

For those seeking specific dietary options, Riverside Market is accommodating, with many vendors providing vegetarian and vegan choices. The layout encourages exploration, with seating available on multiple levels and outdoor areas overlooking the Avon River, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy your finds.

Beyond the Food: Shopping & Atmosphere

While food is the main draw, Riverside Market also offers a curated selection of retail shops. These boutiques feature locally sourced products, artisan crafts, specialty groceries, and unique gift items. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or discover local New Zealand products. TikTok

The market's design blends rustic charm with modern aesthetics, creating a welcoming and vibrant ambiance. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, the atmosphere is consistently buzzing. The indoor space is well-designed, and the outdoor seating by the river adds a serene element to the experience. Instagram

It's a popular spot for locals to meet friends, enjoy a casual lunch, or simply soak in the lively environment. The combination of diverse food, unique shopping, and a pleasant riverside setting makes Riverside Market a multifaceted destination worth visiting. Reddit

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