Historic Clarendon Restaurant revives classic dining in the city
A slice of Christchurch’s early history has been reinvented in the centre of the city, with the opening of Clarendon Restaurant and Bar in the newly renovated Clarendon Tower.
The Clarendon Hotel was a landmark building when it was constructed in 1902, and remains a stalwart of the local landscape to this day. In its heyday the hotel welcomed Queen Elizabeth and the Beatles as guests, and today the contemporary restaurant which carries the historic Clarendon name continues the tradition of quality and decadence.
The welcoming outdoor seating is bathed in afternoon sun and provides a welcoming retreat from the hustle bustle of the city centre, with views over the adjacent river. Meanwhile, the restaurant remains true to the original style of the building, with frosted glass panels along an interior wall reflecting the original exterior, which has been carefully restored. Archive photographs of the original Clarendon Restaurant line the walls of the bar, and the classic feel is carried through to the restaurant furnishings and menu.