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Hours
Tue
5:00 pm - 11:45 pm
Wed
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm5:00 pm - 11:45 pm
Thu
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm5:00 pm - 11:45 pm
Fri
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm5:00 pm - 11:45 pm
Sat
5:00 pm - 11:45 pm
Ratings and reviews
5.0
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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CUISINES
Asian, Polynesian
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, After-hours, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
Can a vegan person get a good meal at this restaurant?
Details
About
Introducing Manu; a vibrant and innovative restaurant and bar celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Pasifika glam and fresh Asian influences nestled in the heart of Ōtautahi Aotearoa (Christchurch, New Zealand). Our menu is a fusion of Asian, Pasifika, and Māori flavours. We showcase the unique culinary heritage of our region while embracing the diversity of our cultural Pacific and Asian backgrounds. Manu is the Māori word for "feathered creature”. Like a bird, Manu rises daily to embody an environment of colourful, sensual beauty and cultural diversity. At Manu, we believe food is a universal language that brings people together. Our dishes are crafted with intention to reflect the values of manākitanga, (hospitality) by inviting diversity, colour, and beauty to shine through our food and service. Our team is dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul.
CUISINES
Asian, Polynesian
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, After-hours, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
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5.0
74 reviews
Excellent
75
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Cooney whānau
Invercargill4 contributions
Jul 2024 • family
Manu Restaurant is a true gem in the heart of Christchurch. From the moment we stepped in, we were welcomed with "Kia ora" and big warm smiles. And WOW, a beautifully designed space that reflects a blend of Pacifica, Asian, and Māori influences. The artwork throughout the restaurant is absolutely stunning. Each piece tells a story, adding depth and character to the dining experience.
The food was absolutely amazing. From the Happy Goat Bao Buns which made my husband extremely happy!! The venison, Pāua spring rolls, manu fried chicken, dumplings, it was simply divine – the flavours were incredible, and each plate came out so beautifully presented.
The drinks menu is fantastic too! I tried the Matcha Onsen cocktail, and it was so perfectly balanced and how it's presented with dry ice was spectacular. There’s a great selection of Beer, wines and spirits as well, something for everyone to enjoy.
The service was top-notch. The staff were friendly and attentive. It’s clear that the team truly care about providing an excellent dining experience.
If you’re in Christchurch, Manu Restaurant is a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll leave with a full heart and a happy stomach. Highly recommended!
Thank you Manu for an unforgettable dining experience x
Written 6 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia Ora! Thank you for taking the time to give us your feedback, as a brand-new restaurant we really appreciate this.
Written 7 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Angela M
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • family
What a magical night we had, a perfect place for a special whānau birthday celebration! The atmosphere at Manu is next level, with beautiful hues of blue, lush velvet booths and stunning art. We started with delicious cocktails and then ordered a bunch of shared platters. The food was fresh with delicious flavors and presentation. The service was excellent and we even had a special birthday song, with all of the front of house singing. I'll be returning soon!
Written 3 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora!
We're so glad we were able to be part of this special occasion, Thank you for sharing it with us.
And Thank you for taking the time to give us a heartfelt review!
We look forward to welcoming you back for another wonderful dining experience soon.
Written 3 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kaycee8
Wellington84 contributions
Sept 2024 • family
Having experienced Blue Kanu in Queenstown I was keen to try Manu and it didn’t disappoint. The setting is a little more sophisticated and the placement of tables and plants made it feel quite private.
The staff are great. The food was divine (duck curry!) and the sharing plates (ceviche and paua and venison spring rolls). We also had cocktails and dessert (very unusual for me but couldn’t pass up the innovative options).
Written 28 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora Kaycee,
Thank you so much for taking the time to give us your feedback.
We are so happy you found us at our new home in Ōtautahi and that you had such a lovely dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you back to Manu very soon!
Written 29 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elaine T
Queenstown4 contributions
Aug 2024 • friends
I Was fortunate enough to experience lunch and dinner at Manu. From the minute you walk through the door you are greeted with a warm Kia ora and immediately feel welcome and in good hands. The sense of arrival is flawless. The staff attentive, friendly and well dressed. The food was flavourful and presented in a unique and creative way. The silver sculpture of an octopus masquerading as a bowl that the laksa was presented in was especially memorable!
The bento box I enjoyed for lunch was simply stunning and the venison spring rolls a must try.
It’s been said the most important thing someone can leave you with is the way they make you feel! This perfectly sums up experiencing Manu.
I can’t wait to return.
Written 12 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia Ora,
Wow, Thanks so much for taking the time to give us your feedback, it means so much to us!
We're delighted to hear you had a few lovely dining experiences with us and we'll be sure to share your comments with the whole team.
We hope to see you back at Manu Restaurant soon!
Written 14 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Food4Bron
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • none
I booked a ‘long lunch’ for my birthday and it was the perfect place to enjoy with friends and family! Warm and inviting, greeted by the delightful owner on entry. They handled 6 opinionated and chatty women, with different food requirements with skill poise, humour and grace Nothing was a problem. We were there for 6 hours eating, drinking and enjoying the atmosphere. Interesting tasty menu in a divine setting. A must do. It will become a favourite!
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 20 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
Firstly Thank you for choosing Manu Restaurant for your birthday celebrations, we were thrilled to have you and your closest friends dine with us, the privilege was all ours!
We love that you stayed and enjoyed all that we offer and we can't wait to have you all back one day soon.
Written 22 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Travel01401653263
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • friends
I had the pleasure of being the first table seated for Manu's first dinner service and I was absolutely blown away! The food is this exceptional blend of Polynesian and South East Asian using a fantastic selection of New Zealands native ingredients such as horopito. We had a veritable feast having the pork adobo, venison and paua spring rolls, goat bao, flat bread the salad and the veggies dumplings and honestly no notes! The vegetarian options actually felt thought out which was fantastic for my friend. The drinks were also delicious again with a heavy New Zealand theme. Also the service was exceptional our server Dels was super knowledgeable for it being their first night amd she was very warm and welcoming! Honestly I haven't found another venue in Christchuch that offers an experience like that so please if you are considering visiting Manu do you won't regret it!
Written 7 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
We are so humbled by your feedback, thank you!
All our hard work is worth it when we ready reviews like this :) We look forward to welcoming you back to Manu very soon.
Written 11 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tom
Wellington3 contributions
Sept 2024 • couples
Wow this place is really great. Have been here twice, one dinner, one lunch. Both were awesome. Some of the best times I've had at an eating place. I'm surprised there's not more hype. The bento box for lunch is especially great value, got to try a bunch of yum stuff and hardly needed dinner. Very well looked after by Karen and Ani, thanks very much! Wishing this place all the best for it's future, really great addition and hopefully a long-term feature for Chch.
Written 12 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia Ora,
This is wonderful feedback for us to receive! Thank you for taking the time to give us a review.
We hope to see you back at Manu Restaurant really soon!
Written 14 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Antof88
Rolleston74 contributions
Sept 2024 • business
Have attended 2 functions so far with a group at this venue, a dinner and a corporate breakfast. Each time the place was perfect - food is generous, staff attentive and the atmosphere is electric. If you are reading this and have t gone along - change that now!
Written 17 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia Ora and Thank you!
We're thrilled you've been able to dine with us a few times, you are always welcome back.
Thanks so much for your kind comments, we'll be sure to share them with our team!
Written 17 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Renee W
Christchurch6 contributions
Aug 2024 • friends
From the moment you step in the door of Manu, you know this is a dining experience like no other. From the warm greeting from Mitch to the handcrafted cocktails by Tom, the sensational service from Ani and the team to the deliciously fresh and consistently excellent kai from Jonathan and his team in the kitchen; this place is spectacular. It is clear that the whole team is committed to the vision Karen and John have for Manu and want to make sure 'she' is a success. I truly feel like part of the whānau. I came the first time for the food, I've come the next 20 for the feeling. For dinner, I highly recommend the Clover Cup cocktail, Aunties Rēwena Flatbread, the Prawn Balls, Veggie Dumplings, Kaimoana Laksa and Coconut Rice. For lunch you can't go past the Kamokamo Mussel Fritters or the Okonomiyaki, but I'd say you can't go wrong with anything 💙.
Written 8 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
What a beautiful review for us to receive, we are truly humbled as this is what Manu is all about, incredible food and true hospitality!
You are a true Manu local now and we love you for it :)
Arohanui, the Manu whanau
Written 9 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Helen S
2 contributions
Jul 2024 • family
What a find! New restaurant in the city, Manu is a must visit. Situated over looking the river in the central Christchurch, Manu has an outstanding decor and vibe that anyone would feel welcome into. From entering the restaurant, the service was second to none! The menu is varied, with emphasis on Pacifica and Asian inspired sharing dishes. Absolutely loved this experience!
Written 10 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora and thank you!
We really hope to see you back at Manu one day soon.
Written 11 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicola McGrath
Christchurch14 contributions
Aug 2024 • family
I had seen the signage as I drove past so did the modern thing and Googled Manu. The menu and decor looked intriguing. The reality far exceeded the Facebook page. Firstly that decor, sitting at the lush bar under a ceiling inspired by Matariki, having the most exquisite cocktail,we spoke to the learned bar staff before being seated with in the most opulent surroundings which I will let you experience. We chose 5 sharing plates and the flavors were simply beautiful. We actually were not going to order a main but knew we had to try..ordered the lamb-no words can suitably describe the flavour explosion, I have never tasted manual smoked lamb so now that I have I won't settle for less. To fine here is not about the kai, it's a whole experience and you will drool as we did. Maybe don't tell your friends as once word gets out about Manu getting a booking may prove difficult. !!🤭
Written 16 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
WOW, thankyou! Such an incredible review for us to receive, we really are so glad you enjoyed your Manu experience!
We hope to see you back dining with us soon.
Written 22 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Harry Hunter
3 contributions
Jul 2024 • friends
A friend and I dined on Manu's first day open to the public. We'd dined at Blue Kanu before and Manu encapsulates a lot of the same aspects that made Blue Kanu so great- attentive and cheerful staff, amazing food in a beautiful setting. In addition, Manu is intimate and relaxing- dining in was a pleasure.
Written 7 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora, what a pleasure for us to ready your review, Thank you! We do hope to see you again soon at Manu.
Written 7 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
emmmcc2024
Christchurch1 contribution
Aug 2024 • none
From stepping inside to being seated even before the menus were presented I was blown away. There isn’t anywhere in Christchurch that looks and feels like Manu. The food was beautiful and Aroha was brilliant. The personalised cocktails were amazing too.
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 16 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
Such lovely feedback for us to receive, we are truly grateful to you for taking the time to give us your review.
We hope to see you back at Manu very soon!
Written 22 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Courtney H
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • family
The most incredible dining experience we have had in a long time. From the moment we arrived we felt welcomed and treated with such kindness. Every meal and drink was amazing - fresh, beautiful Pacific flavours from beginning to end. The service was outstanding - every member of staff was friendly and warm. Such a fun evening!
Written 27 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora,
Thanks so much for taking the time to join us at Manu. Your feedback means so much to us all, it's our aim to make every single person feel welcomed like part of our whānau! Make sure you come back to see us again soon.
Written 29 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Food&Wine Lovers
Christchurch26 contributions
Jul 2024 • couples
We had to try this new restaurant in Christchurch and boy, were we amazed! Often new restaurants might look different, but they still offer roughly the same range of food. Manu is different in every sense of the word. The atmosphere, the decor and the staff stand out as a well-thought-through mix. The food adds another level to the complete experience. The Asian-Pacifica combinations were delicious. Spices and herbs were spot-on. For us, Manu gets a spot in the top Christchurch restaurants.
Written 10 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen Hattaway
Kia ora, what a beautiful review for us to receive, thank you so much!
We'll be sure to pass your feedback on to our team, as everyone deserves to hear this :)
Written 11 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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