Our Story
FRAN’S BACK STORY
In September 2016, Francesca Voza and James Stapley brought their successful Wanaka concept to Christchurch and opened up the second Francesca’s Italian Kitchen in the heart of the central city.
Nestled between two of Christchurch’s most historically significant sites, The Isaac Theatre Royal and New Regent Street, Francesca’s Italian Kitchen quickly established itself as a favorite for local theatergoers and central city residents.
After three years, with the restaurant established amongst Christchurch’s best eateries, existing restaurant manager Ben Patton saw an opportunity to bring some new energy to the business and help continue the amazing growth Francesca and James worked so hard to build.
the start of something new in christchurch
So from October 2019 a new chapter began.
The addition of the new Public Library and the upcoming opening of the new Christchurch Convention Centre has given the restaurant new and exciting opportunities to show Christchurch what true, authentic Italian food is all about.
The focus on quality ingredients, traditional recipes and seasonal variation continue to be at the heart of what we do, with Head Chef Diego Ghidetti drawing on his years of experience living and working in Italy in his family’s restaurants.
Accompanied by a selection of fine New Zealand and Italian wines, guests can experience true Italian dining the way it has been for hundreds of years in the Old Country.
With Christchurch still continuing the monumental task of rebuilding the Central City, we are looking forward to the opportunity to bring our cuisine to people from all over New Zealand and around the world.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What time are you open?
We open every day of the week, from 12:00pm to 2:30pm, and then from 5:00pm to late. Our last sitting is for 8:45pm.
Are you child friendly?
Yes! We have kid's menu's just for your little people. We also have highchairs, should they be required.
Can I book an event at Francesca's Italian Kitchen?
Yes, you can. We have an events & celebrations section where you can find an example of our set menus which change seasonally and an indication of the cost involved. We have both adult and children options. We can host up to 50 people at an event or celebration. Please feel free to call us or email us with any special requests.
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Do you have set menus?
Do you offer vegan, gluten free &vegetarian?
Yes, we do. We have options for all! That said, although best efforts are made, food is prepared where gluten and allergens may be present. Please feel free to discuss any and all dietary requirements with us on arrival so staff know your specific needs.
Do you follow all government health mandates?
VISIT FRANCESCA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN
Enjoy the exciting flavours, aromas and hospitality of Italy, right here in Christchurch.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In winter they have these little garden shed things just fit for two outside. Super cozy and somehow makes the experience extra special. All the staff here are just amazing, super friendly yet also remaining professional at the same time. To follow through with the high standards, every dish we had, was just so good! If you are staying in Wanaka, make sure you dine here at least once.
SLADE JAMES
The potato skin is a MUST order. It’s the BEST and become the highlight of our trip in Wanaka. No other restaurant can beat that. Please order the potato skin and join my cult 😂 another thing that catch me is the wee green house hut(?) Its outside the restaurant but so cute and so private. It’s not cold at all, they provide hotties and heater. Very very highly recommended. Will definitely come back.
OLIVIA VICTORIUS
A flawless experience. It was really easy to book a table and all the staff were very friendly and professional. I ordered some polenta fries for starters, margarita pizza for my main and the tiramisu for dessert. The fries were crispy and delicious, the pizza had an awesome crust and the tiramisù was smooth and creamy. Overall everything was great.
ANTHONY KUTOVOY
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In winter they have these little garden shed things just fit for two outside. Super cozy and somehow makes the experience extra special. All the staff here are just amazing, super friendly yet also remaining professional at the same time. To follow through with the high standards, every dish we had, was just so good! If you are staying in Wanaka, make sure you dine here at least once.
SLADE JAMES
The potato skin is a MUST order. It’s the BEST and become the highlight of our trip in Wanaka. No other restaurant can beat that. Please order the potato skin and join my cult 😂 another thing that catch me is the wee green house hut(?) Its outside the restaurant but so cute and so private. It’s not cold at all, they provide hotties and heater. Very very highly recommended. Will definitely come back.
OLIVIA VICTORIUS
A flawless experience. It was really easy to book a table and all the staff were very friendly and professional. I ordered some polenta fries for starters, margarita pizza for my main and the tiramisu for dessert. The fries were crispy and delicious, the pizza had an awesome crust and the tiramisù was smooth and creamy. Overall everything was great.
ANTHONY KUTOVOY