The finalists have been announced in the Canterbury Hospitality awards and represent the best dining establishments in the region as voted by the hospitality industry.
The newly established boutique luxury hotel, Majestic at Mayfair, is proudly leading the way with an impressive five nominations in this year’s awards including Outstanding Café.

The talents of the team shine as Sophie White secures a nomination for Outstanding Barista, Zachary Chin earns recognition in the category of Outstanding Bartender, and the emerging culinary talent, Ben Hamilton, is nominated for Emerging Chef. The entire team also earns their fifth nomination, this time for the coveted title of Outstanding Front of House Team.
Majestic At Mayfair will be going up against Little Poms, Estelle and Child Sister who are also nominated for the Outstanding Café award.
Petite wine bar Londo has garnered an impressive four nominations in this year’s awards including Outstanding Bar and Outstanding Wine and Beverage List. The talented individuals behind the scenes are also celebrated, with Robert Faris receiving a nomination for Outstanding Chef and Harry Findlay earning recognition in the category of Outstanding Bartender.
Canterbury is known for its vibrant dining scene offering a diverse range of options from casual cafes and bistros to upscale fine dining establishments.
The competition for Outstanding Restaurant is red hot with 5th Street, Gatherings, Inati, King of Snake and Twenty Seven Steps all vying for the coveted title.

Inati
Those looking for the best casual eateries should check out Bar Yoku, Arbour Woodfired Pizza,
Gang Nam and Smokey Ts who are all nominated for Outstanding Casual / Street Food Establishment.
Bar flies won’t be disappointed with the region’s growing assortment of top-notch bars recognised.
Salut Salut, The Last Word, Londo and Downstairs receive nominations for the title of outstanding bar.
19 awards will be presented to the best of the Canterbury hospitality industry. From crew members to establishments – the best of the best will be celebrated for their contribution to creating a world-class hospitality scene in the region.
CEO Marisa Bidois says, “”Canterbury’s dining scene is a testament to the city’s resilience and adaptability. In the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes, it has not only rebuilt but flourished, offering a diverse culinary landscape that celebrates local produce, embraces global flavours, and welcomes innovation. From the vibrant farmers’ markets to the creative dining experiences, Canterbury’s gastronomic journey is a reflection of its enduring spirit.”
The Canterbury community is also able to vote for its favourite establishment in the People’s Choice Award category.
Voting is open until 1 October, 2023 and the winners will be revealed on Monday, 16th October.
Tickets to the event are on sale now, to purchase or for more information regarding the awards please visit https://hospitalityawards.co.nz/canterbry. Stay connected with key updates and announcements on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Canterbury Hospitality Awards 2023 Finalists
Restaurant Association Outstanding Barista
Cassidy Henderson, Empire Coffee
Fumihiko Takai, Espresso Studio
Katie Aitkins, six ounces
Sophie White, Majestic at Mayfair
The Spirit School Outstanding Bartender
Harry Findlay, Londo
Zachary Chin, Majestic at Mayfair
Gracie Irving, 5th Street
Cory Evans, The Last Word
Tevalis Outstanding Front of House Team
5th Street
Earl
Inati
Majestic at Mayfair
Bidfood Outstanding Casual Dining/Street Food
Bar Yoku
Arbour Woodfired Pizza
Gang Nam
Smokey Ts
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Outstanding Café
Majestic at Mayfair
Little Poms
Estelle
Child Sister
Grey Goose Outstanding Bar
Salut Salut
The Last Word
Londo
Downstairs
DineFind Outstanding Wine & Beverage List
Downstairs
Cellar Door
Londo
Salut Salut
OneMusic Outstanding Ambience & Design
Delilah
King of Snake
Odeon
The Church
Antipodes Outstanding New Establishment
Bareno
Estelle
Odeon
The Church
Silere Merino Outstanding Regional Establishment
Black Estate
Brew Moon
Greystone
Ma Maison, Akaroa
Anchor Food Professionals Outstanding Chef
Finbar Mcarthy, Gatherings
Robert Faris, Londo
Simon Levy, Inati
Tim Keates, Earl
Southern Hospitality Outstanding Restaurant
5th Street
Gatherings
Inati
King of Snake
Twenty Seven Steps
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Emerging Chef
Ben Hamilton, Majestic at Mayfair
Jamm andrei uy, Bar Yoku
Maia Wallace, SUPER
Seth Joblin, Twenty Seven Steps
Pomeroy Group Emerging Front of House
Madeline Simons, The Birdwood
Connor McNab, Earl
Mia Drinna Mr.Brightside Rooftop Bar
Barbara Kubo Rossetti, Twenty Seven Steps
Nova Energy Sales Rep
Andy John Allan, Punky Distro
Joseph Clarke, ServiceIQ – Te Pukenga
Tim Woodfield, red+white
Zac Goy, Aitkins
American Express Outstanding Supplier
Hancocks
Leeston Grocer
ServiceIQ – Te Pukenga
Bidfood