The Halswell — Restaurant in Christchurch

I'm really conflicted about the Halswell. We have been there twice recently for dinner and drinks (in the bar area), since it has been refurbished. The first time was when it was exceptionally busy and the second time was when it was perhaps 1/4 full. The outdoor area looks really nice and there is a small children's playground. There is also parking out the back.

Pros: The new refurbishment looks great - it's classy and comfortable The menu has a lot of choice and the food is presented really nicely (note that the physical menu has more dishes listed than the one available through QR code at the bar tables) Staff seem pleasant and accommodating The majority of the food seemed to satisfy our (two) group(s), and included pizzas, burgers, cos salad, fried chicken and clam chowder

Cons: Sometimes the food has only been lukewarm (clam chowder seemed to be a particular issue) The wagyu rump, while cooked to medium rare as requested, was somehow still a terrible tough cut of meat, even using a steak knife (everyone at the table commented on the difficulty in cutting it) - I think we would have rather had a better cut of meat but a smaller portion, especially for the price. I just cannot recommend the wagyu rump at all The first time we were there, the table fries took almost 1 1/2 hours to come out, but it was exceptionally busy and they did tell us there may be some delay because the restaurant side was full, so it wasn't unexpected The second time we were there it was quite cool in the bar area, and it felt like the aircon was blasting cold air out. We needed our puffa jackets on, but it may have been because the place wasn't full, so there wasn't as much body heat

Overall, I think we would probably try here again as I think it has potential, but we would just be wary of lessons learned with particular dishes, and we will dress for the cold just in case (easier to take layers off if needed). We look forward to sitting outside in the summer...

Booking for dinner at 6pm, didn’t receive dinner until 7.30pm, we ordered an entree that arrived WITH the main at 7.30pm. When it came to ordering, we were told that two of the items we wanted were unavailable, which was hugely disappointing. There were hardly any people in the restaurant while we watched every plate of food come out of the kitchen and head straight to the bar. A steak knife we were given for our meal was incredibly filthy and looked as though it hadn’t been washed at all. Our waitress Chloe was an absolute star and her table side manner was on point. Chloe was very apologetic about the wait and gave us a round of free drinks which was so very appreciated. The food itself once it arrived, was lovely. Our sirloin steak was quite dry unfortunately, and not cooked medium rare, it was medium-well. The lamb was stunning and the entree of beef brisket croquettes slapped SO hard! They were the pick of the night alongside the lamb.

Would definitely come back, but when it’s not so busy, as clearly the restaurant wasn’t prepared for such a busy night. As a suggestion, perhaps let the wait staff know to tell the guests what’s not available before they order.

Front of house lady was superb, full of energy and enthusiasm even though she was run off...

Went there for dinner last Monday on arrival we were seated & the server asked us If we were ready to order ! We said give us a minute . Upon ordering a few minutes later asked if we could change kale for a few carrots ? We were told flat no . Meal came out . Side dish took another 10 minutes . Steaks looked good but as I was starting to eat blood was filling up my plate & massed potato turning red . I ordered medium rare . Server came to ask if our meal was ok , which I replied not really and showed her why . I said I’m pretty disappointed the steak not only Cooked incorrectly but hasn’t been rested . If there’s a problem the chef can talk to me .She then took it back. 5 minutes later another person came out ( not chef) and basically started to accuse me of every thing and my fault as I apparently upset the server ( total reddish ) it was then that my mate stood up and said this is totally unacceptable to speak to us this way and we left . Never ever experienced this from anyone in all my years eating out . If this is what our country is coming to god helps . Never ever will return to this place . Used to go there before it changed...