As far as I could tell Anidote is the only 100% vegan cafe/restaurant in all of the…read moreChristchurch/New Brighton area, which immediately put it at the top of my must-visit radar! Upon walking in it was a bit unclear what the food options were and how to order. It turns out the big computer screen on the check-out counter is intended to order from (after you register or sign in, or something) but I didn't see anyone use it (I only came to know that's what it was for after a lengthy conversation with the owner--I had asked about it because it seemed quite out of place in an otherwise warm, cozy, and family home-like environment). Head chef Annie and her husband Levente were just sweet as ever and clearly working very hard to make Antidote a standout vegan establishment in the New Brighton-Christchurch region. The cafe is more of an order-as-you go/made-to-order type of thing. Which is cool and Annie's talent for making fully raw foods is just lovely. The freshly pressed juices looked particularly yummy. They also offer weekly yoga classes in the back room, there is soon to be a co-working space upstairs, I believe (although I couldn't get the wifi to work the few times I stopped in--they do advertise free wifi on the window), and possibly other events, so do check their calendar. I could see this place doing well in downtown Christchurch (with a bit more foot traffic) and a nice interior facelift to give it some vibrancy and oomph. My only concern is that a different location would take away from the amazing locals that seem to come in almost everyday--everything from "pirate" ukulele teachers and puppet masters, to yogis, young tourists, long-time townies, and everything in between. All in all, the food was nice and I very much enjoyed the company and energy that Annie and Levente exuded while preparing and serving the food.

I was thrilled with the healthy choices! My order was ready super quick, which was perfect since I…read morewas on my lunch break! #yum

Four of us just had a great meal here. All the dishes were good and were generous sizes. The…read moreseafood pasta was ordered by two of us and we could have easily shared one. There was so much seafood in it. Really tasty. One had a pizza that had a ton of meat on it and the other had the lamb gnocci which was also tasty. We all enjoyed our meal. Prices were reasonable. We would go again for sure.

These guys really lead the way in customer service, after 1.5 years living in another country, the…read moreowner immediately recognized me and greeted me by my name and asked about previous work discussions we had before I left NZ! From the first time I walked in all the staff greet me by my first name as soon as I walk in the door. Not only do they treat you like family, their food is super delicious and hearty, great tasty selection for those who are gluten intolerant like myself. Highly recommend in dining here!