“As a small owner-operator business with a huge environmental conscience, our philosophy is to offer an exceptional experience of flavour, love, and education. Everything in the store, from food to furniture, is carefully selected for its environmental impact. All produce is locally sourced and our wines are organic. We specialize in fresh food and cater for food intolerances. We seek to educate our customers on what is and isn’t food, hopefully waking people up to what they are consuming, where it comes from, and what benefits or damage it is doing to the body. We deliver an exceptional experience of flavour, love, and education.”

Organic whero peas with miso, pickled turmeric kumara puree, fermented chilli, and mallow leaf; organic pea flour and charcoal breadcrumbed chicken with smoked beetroot, activated walnut remoulade and fig leaf; and “smashgan”, a take on the Kiwi classic Afghan biscuit.

BearLion Food’s simple storefront is located on the edge of Christchurch’s earthquake-affected Red Zone. Here, an array of gloriously complex salads, preserves, pickles, cereals, fresh seasonal organic fruits and vegetables, indulgent treats such as meringues and cakes, hearty breads, and more is offered to locals and others who drive from around the city. Special Thursday dinners offer a delicious experience where diners can expect to leave satisfied and glowing with health. A deserved winner of New Zealand’s Most Innovative and Sustainable Café 2018.