PALATE
FIRST DATE DILEMMA Get it wrong, and you’re gone. Right, and it may last all night!
THE PERMIT ROOM
THE BREW ACADEMY
ISAAC THEATRE ROYAL
779 Colombo Street, Christchurch permitroom.co.nz
84 Falsgrave Street, Waltham brewacademy.co.nz
145 Gloucester Street, Christchurch issactheatreroyal.co.nz
Arrange to meet your date by the Poupou fountain in Victoria Square, then wander over to dine in the dark, sexy opulence of The Permit Room. Out: flock wallpaper, Taj Mahal posters and copper curry bowls. In: cut crystal glasses and porcelain platters. Here, illicitness meets opportunity, and the Southern Indian menu reflects all of this wonderfully. Perfect for small plates and shared dining. From banana and kale bhajis to Keralan fried chicken, gunpowder cauliflower, and much more – plus fabulous vegan selections. The drinks menu is extensive, with a range of bespoke, exotic, and spicy cocktails.
Now, this is a true geezer-pleaser. Take your geezer and head down to Waltham and learn how to brew your own beer from the experts. Classes include a beautiful lunch from Smoke ‘n’ Barrel, plus you get to take home 40 bottles of freshly brewed grog. The Smoke ‘n’ Barrel menu is a beer match made in heaven. There’s a range of burgers, 1kg sticky ribs, beef cheek mains; Mac n cheese, mayo-loaded slaw. Oooh, potato skins and a nice little salad (+ meat) menu if you’re watching your weight. Or just head down for a plate and pint of my personal favourite, the Chinchilla – Hop Life Hazy IPA.
Impress your date with some heady romance and book the Royal Box, canapés, and champagne experience. This can be done independent of tickets for a show. Hosted by an ITR team member, you’re treated to canapés and champagne whilst in the Royal Box, where you can enjoy views of the lovingly restored dome and stage. If you are there for a show, you enter the theatre 35 minutes prior to the main audience and are personally seated by an attendant. Come interval; you will be treated to ice creams and any additional pre-ordered drinks. P.S. if all goes well, you’re able to get married in the box, too – just saying!
60
