6 Oct 2017

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Christchurch Art Gallery has been without a restaurant for the past six years, but the doors are finally opening on its new brasserie and bar, Universo.

Open for the first time tonight, Universo is owned by well-known local restaurateur Tony Astle, whose hospitality company Stealth also owns King of Snake, Chinwag Eathai, Mexicano's and cocktail bar The Dirty Land.

Tony Astle inside Universo brasserie and bar.

Tony Astle inside Universo, his new brasserie and bar at the Christchurch Art Gallery.

Mr Astle says the new brasserie and bar will be open from 10am until late every day and will have a contemporary, European style and a focus on locally sourced food and wine. The chef is Mark Wilson who worked at Sean Connelly’s The Grill, in Auckland, and Meat Fish Wine, also in Auckland.

Mr Astle says the gallery location is unique and he is very excited about it.

“It’s just such a wonderful building. Most galleries overseas have stunning food outlets and I thought the Art Gallery deserves something special. I hope what we’re doing here does it justice.”

Classy, contemporary and relaxed is the mix he is going for with the new venture, which has a large outdoor dining area.

“We’re trying to do something that’s contemporary but accessible to local clientele and tourists. We want it to be a place where someone wearing shorts or wearing a suit, or as a tourist, feels comfortable coming in.

The café will serve C4 Coffee and baked goods by local business, Bellbird, as well as Canterbury lamb. Mr Astle, who is known for his stylish interior design, says Universo has a tropical oasis feel, with lots of greenery including ferns and bamboo, and leather booth seating. “Our goal from day one has been to add something to the gallery and be sympathetic to what’s happening next door.”

Gallery Director Jenny Harper says it will be wonderful having the restaurant open. 

“We’ve been waiting a while, but I think Universo will be worth it. It’s going to be a wonderful addition to the gallery and our Design Store, and a great place for visitors to round out a visit to one of our excellent exhibitions. It will add to the gallery’s reputation as a place to meet and spend time with friends and family.”