Civil and Naval Bar & Eatery
A historic tailor's building transformed into Lyttelton's go-to spot for craft beers, unique cocktails, and mouthwatering tapas with a cool, eclectic ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Civil and Naval Bar & Eatery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic tailor's building transformed into Lyttelton's go-to spot for craft beers, unique cocktails, and mouthwatering tapas with a cool, eclectic vibe.
"This cozy, quirky place offers a great ambiance and definitely not run of the mill nor are the colourful patrons!"
Be Proactive with Service
Engage bar staff proactively for prompt service, as it can sometimes be a bit relaxed.
Tackle the Tapas
Try the superb tapas-style dishes, with a special mention for the fried cauliflower and calamari.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Bar & Eatery, Tapas
Price
Mid-range
Address
16 London Street, Lyttelton 8082, New Zealand
Website
civilandnaval.co.nz/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Trendsetting Atmosphere
A funky, hip spot attracting artists and trendsetters with a warm, inviting vibe and cool DJ tunes.
Delectable Fried Cauliflower
Highly praised fried cauliflower, coated in spices and perfectly crunchy, drizzled with chipotle crema and maple syrup.
Worldly Drinks Selection
An eclectic array of international and local craft beers, boutique wines, and handcrafted cocktails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Be Proactive with Service
Engage bar staff proactively for prompt service, as it can sometimes be a bit relaxed.
Tackle the Tapas
Try the superb tapas-style dishes, with a special mention for the fried cauliflower and calamari.
Visit on a Monday
A great oasis on a Monday night, with friendly staff and generous portions.
Consider Small Bottles
For sparkling wine lovers, consider small bottles to ensure maximum fizz.
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Proactive with Service
Engage bar staff proactively for prompt service, as it can sometimes be a bit relaxed.
Tackle the Tapas
Try the superb tapas-style dishes, with a special mention for the fried cauliflower and calamari.
Visit on a Monday
A great oasis on a Monday night, with friendly staff and generous portions.
Consider Small Bottles
For sparkling wine lovers, consider small bottles to ensure maximum fizz.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Civil and Naval is a beloved Lyttelton institution known for its cozy, quirky ambiance and consistently superb tapas-style dishes, though service can occasionally be a point of contention. Diners rave about the unique atmosphere and the quality of the food, highlighting specific dishes like the fried cauliflower and calamari. However, some patrons have experienced slow service, particularly during peak times, and advise being proactive to get attention.
"We really enjoyed our mid-morning coffee break with the Saturday market in Lyttleton. A great day out from the city"
Neil Baldwin
"I just love this cosy quirky place. Such great ambiance and definitely not run of the mill nor are the colourful patrons who are characters just like this character filled establishment. This is my 2nd visit in the past 4 years. I loved it the first time and this latest visit did not disappoint. The menu is not extensive but it doesnt need to be. The 4 dishes we ordered were superb! Cooked to perfection, tasty as hell! I gave the chef that feedback too. Why wouldn't you when it's well deserved. The bar service person was a little lax I guess it could be interpreted as part of the charm to be honest so be prepared to be pro active to get what you want. Highly recommended"
Tania Stoyanof
"Great food. Great selection of spirits! Good to see a place so busy on a Monday you do struggle for seating, be aware."
shona parsons
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's known for its funky, hip atmosphere, a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, and delicious tapas-style dishes, especially the fried cauliflower.
Service can be a bit relaxed; it's recommended to be proactive in engaging with bar staff for faster service.
Highly recommended are the fried cauliflower, calamari, hand-cut chips, and the Wednesday-only smash burger.
Yes, they offer an eclectic mix of international and local craft beers, wines, spirits, and handcrafted cocktails.
Absolutely, it's a great spot for a casual lunch, especially during the Saturday markets in Lyttelton.
The atmosphere is described as funky, cozy, quirky, and hip, attracting a trendy and diverse crowd.
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This cozy haunt is packed with locals who come for the tasty tapas-style food, produced in a tiny kitchen, and the excellent cocktails. There's an eclectic selection of international and New Zealand wines, spirits, and craft beers.
Best restaurants for shared plates, Christchurch Neat Places
Much-loved Lyttelton institution Civil and Naval knows a thing or two about simple, delicious food. Offering a very well thought-out sharing menu dotted with memorable plates such as polenta crusted calamari, miso butter coated edamame beans, hand cut chips and bottomless aioli (genius) and delectable deep fried cauliflower with maple and chipotle, it’s well worth visiting this cool spot for a drink and a few plates on any or every night of the week.
The Best Bars In Christchurch
On Lyttelton's main drag, you’ll find Civil & Naval, a little tapas bar squeezed into what was formerly a historic tailor. Look out for the original facade and the few seats outside a large window, which peers out onto London Street. Grab a seat outside under the green canopy in the bricked courtyard or cosy up for drinks by the log fire.
The 10 Best Christchurch Restaurants
Civil & Naval is one of the best places to eat in Christchurch. Here, you’ll find plenty of craft beer and tapas options, making it a great spot to stop at between seeing the local sites. The interior of this eatery is intimate, so it’s a great spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a relaxed meal with your significant other.
The Top 10 Fried Chicken Joints In Christchurch - ChristchurchNZ.com
A brilliant take on a classic, Civil and Naval’s fried cauliflower is coated in a drool-worthy mix of spices and fried until perfectly crunchy and tender. This dish gives the fried chicken (also available) a run for its money. Served up with a zingy chipotle crema and drizzled with maple syrup before serving.
Bars in Christchurch | Where to Go
A cosy yet cool and approachable bar, this bar is located in Lyttelton in a beautiful brick building. You will have them serving food, beer, wine and cocktails from all over the world. The focus is on boutique and family-owned producers as well as small scale international distillers.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Lyttelton
Further down the street, Civil & Naval is a bright and cool space offering coffee during the day and good cocktails at night. It's always busy, and the bar staff have some excellent tips on what you should order.
Best Nightlife in Christchurch
Bar and Bistro Casual Dining New Zealand American Burgers Restaurants Bars Nightlife. Civil & Naval is the biggest, little bar and eatery in Lyttelton. This craft beer and tapas bar is one not to be missed.
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