In the heart of Christchurch’s trendy Tannery complex, Nori Table offers a dining experience that brings together the subtle elegance of Japanese cuisine with fresh New Zealand ingredients. Whether you’re stopping in for a light lunch, an evening of sushi indulgence, or a casual date night, the Nori Table menu offers a wide range of flavorful options. Known for its contemporary approach to traditional Japanese dishes, this restaurant has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. With a menu that emphasizes freshness, balance, and creativity, Nori Table is a true culinary destination within The Tannery.
Exploring the Core of the Nori Table Menu
Signature Sushi Rolls
Nori Table specializes in sushi rolls that reflect both traditional roots and modern influences. Each roll is carefully crafted, highlighting fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. The attention to detail is evident in both presentation and taste.
- Volcano Roll A spicy favorite featuring cooked salmon, avocado, and spicy mayo, finished with a torched top.
- Tempura Prawn Roll Crispy prawns with cucumber and avocado, wrapped in nori and rice, then drizzled with eel sauce.
- Rainbow Roll A colorful roll topped with assorted sashimi, showcasing fresh fish like tuna, salmon, and snapper.
- Vegetarian Roll Filled with pickled radish, avocado, cucumber, and sweet soy glaze for a plant-based delight.
Classic Nigiri and Sashimi
For purists, the nigiri and sashimi section of the menu offers the clean flavors of raw fish without distraction. These items are best enjoyed fresh and reflect the chef’s dedication to quality.
- Salmon Nigiri Buttery, smooth slices of salmon laid over hand-formed rice.
- Tuna Nigiri Fresh, ruby-red tuna paired with wasabi and vinegared rice.
- Assorted Sashimi Platter A chef-selected arrangement of raw fish, perfect for sharing or sampling.
Hot Dishes and Small Plates
Appetizers and Izakaya-Style Plates
Beyond sushi, Nori Table features a variety of hot plates and small dishes that complement the main courses or serve as a meal on their own. These items are inspired by Japanese izakaya (gastropub) culture and are perfect for sharing.
- Chicken Karaage Juicy Japanese-style fried chicken served with tangy dipping sauce.
- Edamame Lightly salted and steamed soybeans, a healthy and tasty starter.
- Takoyaki Octopus-filled savory dough balls topped with bonito flakes, mayo, and sweet soy.
- Gyoza Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, served with dipping sauce.
Donburi Bowls and Ramen
For those craving warm comfort food, the donburi bowls and ramen selections provide satisfying, hearty meals. The rice bowls are topped with savory proteins and vegetables, while the ramen is rich in umami.
- Teriyaki Chicken Don Grilled chicken glazed with teriyaki sauce over steamed rice and greens.
- Salmon Don Grilled salmon, miso glaze, avocado slices, and pickled vegetables on a rice base.
- Miso Ramen A warming bowl of miso broth, noodles, soft-boiled egg, and marinated pork belly.
- Spicy Chicken Ramen A bold option for spice lovers, loaded with chili oil and tender chicken slices.
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Options
Nori Table is inclusive of dietary preferences and features a generous range of vegetarian and vegan menu items. These dishes are thoughtfully crafted to ensure they never compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
- Tofu Teriyaki Don Crispy tofu cubes glazed in teriyaki sauce served over rice with greens.
- Vegan Ramen A plant-based broth with noodles, mushrooms, tofu, bok choy, and corn.
- Avocado Nigiri Simple and creamy avocado slices over seasoned sushi rice.
Desserts and Sweet Finishes
No Japanese meal feels complete without a little sweetness to end on a high note. Nori Table offers a compact dessert selection that blends traditional Japanese flavors with Western influences.
- Mochi Ice Cream A chewy rice dough exterior with creamy ice cream inside, in flavors like mango and matcha.
- Green Tea Cheesecake A fusion dessert combining the richness of cheesecake with earthy matcha notes.
- Yuzu Sorbet A citrusy, refreshing scoop to cleanse the palate.
Beverages and Pairings
Japanese-Inspired Drinks
The drink menu at Nori Table includes a mix of traditional Japanese options and modern refreshments. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or slightly bitter, there’s something for everyone.
- Hot and Cold Sake A range of sake options to match your meal’s intensity.
- Japanese Beer Brands like Asahi, Sapporo, and Kirin offer crisp flavors that go well with sushi.
- Matcha Latte Earthy and rich, perfect as a dessert drink.
- Plum Wine Sweet and tangy, a unique option for adventurous diners.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Green tea (hot or iced)
- Yuzu soda
- Lemon honey iced tea
- Traditional Japanese soft drinks like Ramune
Atmosphere and Experience at The Tannery
Nori Table is situated within The Tannery, a restored Victorian-style arcade filled with boutique shops, cafes, and artisan markets. The location adds a unique charm to the dining experience. Inside the restaurant, the atmosphere is minimalistic yet cozy, featuring clean lines, wooden textures, and ambient lighting. It’s a popular spot for both casual lunches and intimate dinners.
Service is known for being friendly and knowledgeable. Staff members are always willing to offer recommendations, explain unfamiliar menu items, and accommodate dietary requests.
Takeaway and Online Ordering
For those on the go, Nori Table offers takeaway and delivery options. The sushi travels well thanks to careful packaging, and warm dishes like ramen are delivered with components separated to preserve texture. The online ordering system is simple and user-friendly, making it easy to enjoy your favorite items from the comfort of home.
Why Nori Table Deserves a Spot on Your List
With its diverse and flavorful menu, warm hospitality, and beautifully designed setting within The Tannery, Nori Table delivers far more than just a meal it offers a curated experience for food lovers. From sushi connoisseurs to noodle lovers, and from meat eaters to vegans, there’s something on the Nori Table menu for everyone. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned fan, a visit to Nori Table promises a memorable culinary journey full of taste, texture, and discovery.