As if the beautiful bright lights of New Regent Street aren’t enough to draw you in, then come with us as Cityscape takes you Downstairs.

Emma Mettrick and Paul Howells are at it again with this swanky new bar, and sister to their highly acclaimed restaurant Twenty Seven Steps . It launched in the space directly downstairs from the restaurant, in the centre of New Regent Street, and it’s a wine-focussed bar to add to the street’s growing number of speciality establishments.

Ōtautahi’s newest offering features a slick bar and intimate seating across divided spaces. The moody atmosphere is lit up with cracked glass globe pendant lights throughout, which define the inside and beam out onto the street.

We sit at a street-side table offering the privacy of frosted glass windows, and we still feel like we were a part of the vibe. The maître d’ is one of Christchurch’s best Italian transplants, Orazio, who many will recognise from top venues around town. The team’s attention to detail and world-class hospitality are a big part of why we end up staying late.

Now for the most important bit: the wine and food. We try the Duck Liver Parfait with buttery bread and a side salad for something light.  Then, for more robust fare, we get the Kimchi Croquettes, a unique dish with a bit of kick that is easily pacified with a Downstairs house cocktail creation.

Orazio tells us the Marie, a tequila-based libation, is the most popular drink on the menu, and upon the first sip we immediately understand why. Sweet, clean and delicious. The wine list is extensive and intriguing, with a selection of new drops that are exclusive to Downstairs in Christchurch. Beers on tap include a good range of pilsners, lagers and pale ales.

We eat, drink and merrily relax while tourists and townies take the vibe in around us. There is a real community feel to the place that owner Paul describes as a “wine pub”. It’s decidedly different from the upstairs offering, and really brings something new to this great little walking street.

18 New Regent Street
downstairs.co.nz