Sezn

Info

Map

Photos

Edit

Address

705 Gloucester Street
Dallington
Christchurch
Region: Canterbury
Licence: Fully Licensed
Cuisine: New Zealand
Add to 'My Restaurants'

Contact

Phone: 03-381 2496
Fax: 03-381 7659
Website: www.sezn.co.nz
Email: sezn705@gmail.com

Open

Tuesday - Saturday - 4.30pm - late
Jazz on Saturday between 6.30 & 8.30pm - Come and check these chaps out $10 Cocktails!

Comments

Our menu is totally produce driven and changes often. We source all our fresh produce locally and organically where possible. Our wine list is managed with the same vision and changes as we source new and exciting offerings, locally, nationally and internationally

Join us on Facebook: Sezn Restaurant and Bar

Private Dining Room
- ideal for Product Launches / Sales Seminars
- Weddings / Birthdays
- Boardroom Style Meetings
- Cocktail Parties
- Family Celebrations
- Just a damm good time

Beautiful Courtyard - Pop in for a drink and see for yourself, a little oasis in Dallington!

Wedding Scheming Services offered

If you love food, you love life. Welcome to our world!

Menus

6059_August_Menu.pdf

Overall DineOut Score based on 125 reviews

Total		9.1
Food		9.3
Dessert		9.2
Presentation		9.2
Service		9.3
Environment		8.4
Toilets		8.0
Child Friendly	Yes

Review by: Robyn toms (1) on 7th August 2010

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Amazing food, wine, service and atmosphere. A must for all. Will definitely be a regular . AWESOME all round. Service was amazing, very well informed choices by jovial staff who allowed you your space yet provided service dearly seen. Food presentation and taste was fabulous.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: suekate (1) on 5th August 2010

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		9

after being highly recommended by my son jason,an expert foodie, my sister in law kate and i decided to give sezn a try last evening and were certainly not dissapointed. The place has heaps of atmosphere. The staff were very professional, with the ability to cope with the pressure of a full house. The food was exquisite! and run by a very charming proprietor called Debbie. We definitely will return

Login to vote x2x2 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Magzstar [DineOut VIP] (155) on 2nd August 2010

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

WOW and WOW- this place is just amazing- we came here Friday night for dinner (complete with live jazz) and for atmosphere, service, food and wine knowledge this is flawless. We started with the entrees of artichoke soup with smoked fish and a smal lamb pie with pastry to die for- feathery, light, melt in mouth stuff. The the turbot and venison for mains- again the presentation and taste were superb. We shared a creme brulee and then finshed with an excellent cheeseboard and desert wine. The price is very very good and I wish there was a branch in Wellington!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: m horgan (4) on 30th July 2010

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

I haven't ben inspired enough to write a dineout review for more than a year. But this place has got it figured out. Just the right combination of professional but friendly staff, atmosphere and furnishing are tasteful but not overly formal. Food presentation was superb, quite unique, fun. Actual meals were excellent, we were a group of 9 and I expect had all menu options covered between us - we were all very happy with our individual meal choices but still jealous of what was plated next to us.
I can see why SEZN is rating so highly on dine-out at the moment - they deserve it! I can't wait to go again. Well done Sezn - if you're reading this and haven't been - do it.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Bree Jones (1) on 28th July 2010

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

My partner booked us in here for my 30th and I was excited having heard so much about it. I was almost worried that my expectations were too high and unlikely to be met ... I was wrong. Even before we stepped in the door, Debbie had rung my partner to determine the ocassion, any dietary requirements etc so immediately you feel special and from the second we got there Debbie and the staff made us feel welcome, and important (we even had personally printed menus), and the service level never stopped the whole time we were there.The food was simply exceptional, and the amuse bouche a nice touch! Both waiters kept a busy restaurant running seamlessly and still kept up silver service standards. But the highlight (and for someone that is more savoury over sweet) is the creme brulee ... literally melted in my mouth and I suspect I'm unlikely to find another to top it in this lifetime! 10 out of 10 in every aspect, what a great way to start my 30's!!!
PS. On trying to submit this review I am told i cannot submit a rate of all 10's so have taken off 1 for environment as a slight chill but still fab!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: shazza (12) on 26th July 2010

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		8
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

Where to start! From the moment we entered the cosiness of the bar to the dulcet sounds of the clarinet and bass, until we left several hours later, the experience was 10/10. The wait staff were superb from the bar to the dining room. Even though the restaurant was full, we were not neglected, staff were attentive but not obtrusive, and any little requests for extras or changes were accommodated with a smile. Our party of four ordered quite a variety of dishes so we got to taste and sample what others had ordered which is always fun. My steak was cooked to perfection and so beautifully presented. The little touches between courses, especially the mandarin sorbet, were exceptional. The espresso sorbet is a stand out of the evening for me. I'd heard about it but it wasn't part of my dessert, but they were happy to serve me a scoop to try anyway. It really felt more like visiting friends for dinner than being at a restaurant. Would I recommend it? you bet! Will I be back? You bet!! Absolutely to be recommended.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: avegandidthis (21) on 26th July 2010

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

I was taken here for a birthday dinner, unsure what to expect as I am vegan and it makes all eating situations slightly difficult. The woman who I assume is the owner greeted me by name and said happy birthday :) the man behind the bar was just new and very friendly, he made us the Sezn cocktail and it was delicious!
The atmosphere is beautiful, the artwork on the walls is cute and displayed quite interestingly. The toilet was full of candles and was very pretty.
Our waiter was great, when we didn't like the bottle of wine he bought us to taste he happily replaced it -thank you! The staff give you shawls if you go outside to smoke which is exceptional. We had a three course meal, mine was all vegan and absolutely amazing.
The selection of sorbets I had for dessert were to die for, and the crunchy little things that they were served with were a nice contrast. I can't wait to come back here again for dinner.

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Tim McGinn (1) on 19th July 2010

Total		8.7
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		8
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		N/A

I chose to take my partner to Sezn to mark a special occasion. If you mention this when booking like I did you may see a special acknowledgement of this on the menu which I think is a nice touch and makes you feel very welcome. Debbie as your host will always ensure that in any event. We had cocktails, a Marg and a martini while waiting to be seated and these were very nice....I like to be able to taste the alcohol.
We were positioned in an intimate corner while in the adjoining room a large party had arrived but this had no impact on the experience.
A complementary starter taster of mushroom soup/puree
with garlic foam was a portent of things to come. Even thogh i don't consider myself a fungus fan I loved it!
The menu was nicely balanced and catered nicely for my carnivorous tastes as well as my partner's vegetarian (fish excepted) palate as well. I had a mini pie of braised lamb to start while my partner had the artichoke and smoked fish soup. It would not have been my choice but I got to try it and was immediately jealous. The mains, mine a pork belly trimmed of excessive fat, and my partner's brill were outstanding.
Everything was well presented and although we were well satiated we found room for the cheese selection. Somewhere in the iddle was a nice G&T sorbet as well. Again a nice touch (takes me back to the days when Michaels restaurant was at its prime)
I never bothered to peruse the winelist as I got chatting at the bar to our sommelier and sampled a recommended bordeaux style Cab Merlot that i got to drink most of as i wasn;'t driving! A nice tawny port came out with the cheese.
One of the things that we both took from the expereince was that the staff seemed very happy to be there too, and were clearly skilled and efficient. A good sign for the long term.
Best dining experience for ages and i cant wait to go back and bring some friends with us to share the experience

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: james07 (3) on 18th July 2010

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

Enjoyed a lovely dining experience with our good friends here. The food was amazing! We all had the $65 pre-fix menu & its was great value! The service was faultless. We look forward to returning in the near future!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: love2eatout (4) on 16th July 2010

Total		8.7
Food		9
Dessert		8
Presentation		10
Service		8
Environment		8
Toilets		10

A wonderful restaurant tucked away in an odd location. But once you've found it, you'll rave about it. Possibly the best food in Christchurch, beautifully presented.
The prices aren't low, but we thought they were thoroughly reasonable for the level of fine food, service and environment we experienced.
Ladies, if you visit be sure to take a trip to the powder room! Gorgeous facilities!

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: jetty (1) on 3rd July 2010

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		8
Child Friendly	Yes

Ooo la la! I had wanted to go here for a long time as the restaurant is in my hood, and had spent some time reading the many favourable reviews. My partner and I had the set menu. Every dish was a delight, the perfect size- enough to fill- despite your eagerness to continue the savoury experience. Get to this restaurant, I rave about it to all and will be back soon!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Movie & dine (5) on 27th May 2010

Total		9.1
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		8

I had read a lot of reviews about this restaurant and wanted to experience it for myself. I found I wasn't disappointed. I went with a group of six friends and the experiance right from making the initial booking was very friendly and professional. On the night the food was superb , the service was warm and friendly and we just loved the live Band that was playing when we arrived. Thanks heap Sezn we'll be back.

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Helen & Monty (1) on 26th April 2010

Total		9.4
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		9

Debbie and her team are obviously very talented and take great pride in what they do. From the moment we entered the restaurant we knew we were going to experience a new level of dining. We dine alot and have experienced fine dining in many locations of New Zealand, but this is the first time I have ever been inclined to go to the trouble of adding a review. The waitress we had 2was very attentive but not in your face and the chefs did a wonderful job with preparation and presentation of the food. It was a real pleasure to be catered for by people so professionaland passionate about what they do. My partner and I are looking forward to going again to enjoy the ambience this restaurant offers to couples and explore more of the exciting menu. If you are looking for a memorable night this really is the place to go. Girls you can treat yourselves for this one. Boys if you want to impress the girls then this is the place to go.

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: gwynz (2) on 14th April 2010

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		8

Our friends recently asked me where to go out for their anniversary. I recommended Sezn as we had read good reviews but had never been ourselves. Partway through their evening they text and declared it was the best food they had ever had. High praise I thought, especially coming from fussy foodies (rather like us)!
When our relatives from Australia told us they were taking us out to our choice of restaurant we immediately chose Sezn. Tuesday night was less crowded and the warm cosy atmosphere was inviting. The view through into the kitchen was promising and things looked highly professional. At the same time the service was relaxed in a good way, with a bit of friendly banter with the Australian owner. On the table, our menus were printed personalised to our group as it was our relative's last planned trip to New Zealand. This was a really nice touch and unexpected even though the owner had asked what the occasion was. The wine was offered to taste in a very professional manner and nothing was a hassle.
We were given a little mushroom tortellini with foam to whet our appetite. It was perfectly seasoned and delicious.
The duck terrine was superb, the best we've had with an amazing mushroom centre. The cornichons served with this were a little intense to pair with it I felt, but it didn't take away from the experience
Everyone had different mains and no-one was disappointed. The pork belly melts in the mouth with a satisfying cruch of crackling, the venison and eye fillets were perfectly cooked and the brill...well... crisp skin, brown butter & capers and an absolutely melt in the mouth texture...10 out of 10.
Shared vegetables were delecate and succlent, the rosti was ok with a very nice horseradish sauce.
Dessert however was a delight. We'd spent a long time looking for the perfect brulee, and hallelujah. It came with a flawless caramelised top that gave way with a satisfying crack. Underneath was the most creamy, silky goodness you could ask for. After having many that were grainy or bland, it's a case of go no further. Beside this, pearched on a shortbread spoon was an intense, fresh strawberry sorbet. These so well complemented the brulee, and the spoon was light and pleasing.
In our 10 years together it's the best restaurant experience we've had. Well done Sezn!

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Girls Night Out [DineOut VIP] (120) on 30th March 2010

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

My friend and I booked in here for her birthday. When we arrived our table had personalised menus "Tonight it is all about xxxxxx (you). Happy xxth Birthday Celebration Dinner".
I had the pumpkin and mascarpone tortellini with almond and sage butter for my starter. This was delicious and not what I expected, the pasta was shaped like little funnels with the pumpkin in the bottom and the almonds sprinkled on top. I had a mouthful of the duck and mushroom terrine with cornichons and toast. The terrine had a perfect texture.
For my main I had the beef ribeye with chips, royale with cheese and bearnaise. The beef was perfectly cooked to medium rare. The meal came with a miniature burger, five centimetres high and about 3 centimetres in diameter - cute! I was granted a tiny sample of the braised pork belly with head to toe pork sausage and puy lentils. The pork was gorgeous.
For pudding I stuck with my usual Creme Brulee and I was glad I did. The Brulee was just the way I like it - warm, smooth and rich.
Our waitress was delightful!
and last but not least. In all my years I have never seen a romantic toilet, until tonight. There were petals on all the surfaces and mood lighting via candles floating in bowls filled with water.
We will be back.

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: map out (6) on 27th March 2010

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		N/A
Child Friendly	Kind of

Melt in your mouth pork belly in a cosy, dark atmosphere. Excellent wait-staff and quiet, efficient kitchen. A lot of couples were dining as it is clearly appropriate for a romantic dining experience. Equally suitable to groups as the staff are so on the ball and capable.
Super friendly bar with great live music; lovely garden out the back and I love the fact cellphones are actively discouraged in the dining room (their ovens stop working if a ph activates).
The chocolate delice was INCREDIBLE. Gluten-free did not throw them off their game ... great meal, and cocktails!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: CJD [DineOut Admin] (136) on 28th February 2010

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		N/A

When looking for a reliable place to have a meal, Sezn always comes out on top. Reliable service, consistent quality, awesome food. So, when family comes from out of town, we're booked in for another great meal.
Debbie, as usual, looked after us well, and the others who looked after us during our meal were professional and personable. The perfect balance.
I started with the venison pie as the kitchen produces the best pastry goodness from anywhere. The best pie in town? Probably. The venison pie is jam packed full, meaty and tender. Great start.
I followed with the lamb cutlets with braised shoulder pie (yes, 2 pies in one night!) and this was superb. The lamb cutlets were rare, but just how I like them. Rarer than I would do at home, but I like being shown how food can be prepared in a way I wouldn't do myself, and I enjoyed it! The pie with this was also packed full of tender lamb and the pastry was more melt in your mouth goodness.
We stacked the table with all of the shared dishes, and my preference was towards the broccoli & brown butter, although I had some of all of them, and went back for seconds too.
Dessert is truly wonderful here. I decided against the sticky date pudding as I have had the sugar overload previously, and went for the choc delight with the coffee sorbet. That was the best scoop of sorbet I have ever consumed. Like a very well constructed iced coffee in spoonable form. Delicious, and unshared. Similar ohh and ahh noises were coming from across the table about the gin & tonic sorbet. I'd go back again just for the sorbet. I'd consider breaking in and stealing it from the freezer!!
We finished off with coffees and liqueurs, all happy and contented. Cost was about $100/head, but well worth it.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Titch [DineOut VIP] (73) on 25th February 2010

Total		9.3
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		8

What can I say? 99% of the previous comments have "said it all"; sometime with a bit of humour, sometimes with a pinch of salt... and in general we do agree with all the great and positive comments made!
One thing I can say with certainty is "we'll be back!" - next time however we aim to ensure our eyes are not bigger than our delicate stomachs ("butter & oil orgy") - and before we order a highly recommended wine (it complimented our choices almost perfectly), we check the wine list for the price - I simply got carried away and now it will be pure Christchurch water for a while :-)

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Lovefood (9) on 25th February 2010

Total		9.7
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Again - there is nothing I can fault this place on. Amazing food and wines (oh and cocktails - although I see the list has been cut down, but I know they will make anything I ask for!). Service was great and the ladies toilets - as always - breathtaking.
Creme Brulee - just superb as was the duck terrine. The beef melted in your mouth, however the pea, scallop and bacon soup was a bit light on the scallops and not quite as tasty as the terrine - yet I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
Keep it up - we love you!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: NotFussy (57) on 22nd February 2010

Total		9.3
Food		10
Dessert		8
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A
Child Friendly	Not at all

Finally made it to Sezn. Tried back in November but alas, it was fully booked. So, the opportunity arose on Thursday as we were in Temuka for a van we bought on Trade Me (how did we exist before TMe). Left Temuka at 6pm, our booking was at 8pm and most of the way Hubby is muttering "this better be worth it, Im starving". "Dont worry babe, Dine-out wouldn't lie to us"! As soon as we entered, Debbie greeted us by name and was genuinely happy to see us. From then on it was the best time Ive ever had in a restaurant. The entrees of Duck terrine and venison pie were amazing, the pinot noir Debbie picked just spot on. Mains were steak (for me) and pork belly (for him), both were devine. For dessert the cheeseboard (and a cheeky port) just delicous , room temperature cheese makes a huge difference. We both declared it was the best meal we've ever had, not just because of the food, but the service, the surroundings and the 'vibe'. Thanks Debbie and DineOut :)

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: food.love [DineOut VIP] (151) on 21st February 2010

Total		7.4
Food		7
Dessert		7
Presentation		8
Service		9
Environment		7
Toilets		7

Nice food, excellent service! Very professional and attentive. The pork was really, really tasty. I'll definitely return in the future.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Krys (1) on 31st January 2010

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		9

After visiting Sezn restaurant last few years , and I have to say what a great experience it was, we have decided to go to celebrate our anniversary in Sezn restaurant. Being spoiled by eating in many great restaurants around the world, Tokyo, Berlin, Prague, New York, I had a bit reservation.From my experience there are hardly any restaurants worth to mention. Christchurch is great city just not so great with culinary food. Yes there are some but not to the standard as it should. Anyway after arriving by taxi to the restaurant, when we entered Sezn restaurant we were transformed to another place.Paintings of various artists and great interior, designed to compliment each other will relax you and I have to admit forgot about outside world.We were welcomed by Debbie,and her professionalism is undoubtedly the best I had experienced so far. Sezn's staff what a renaissance of waiters, bar person and chefs they are.We were seated to our table where personalized menu was awaiting for us. What a great touch. Details like that creates unforgettable experience. The wine selection is very carefully chosen and as a lover of red wine what a treat. Menu is simple but very inviting.Our waiter new exactly when we are ready to order and without being annoyed or disturb he appeared beside our table and toke our order including his suggestion and explanations about meal and wine. The wine we have been recommended was just a symphony of richness and fruit flavors complimenting greatly with our meal.Review of restaurant SEZN - Part6 Both entrée and main were executed with perfection and I have to admit, I couldn't find, even if I have tried, anything to be criticized negatively. Deserts with were great point of closing the dinner and final cup of greatly made espresso was just final touch that even Corton in New York could be proud of. 5 from 5 from me

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: bBc (12) on 22nd January 2010

Total		9.5
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		8

when your glass of water is always topped up and yet you never see your sever, you know they are good. could not fault any part of this dining experience.... except maybe the high chance of being mugged walking back to your car at the end of the night!!
loved every part of the meal and the whole restaurant. Amazing, flawless service by a lovely scottish lass.

Login to vote x3x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: DMM (3) on 19th January 2010

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		9
Environment		7
Toilets		10

My mother has taken several people to Sezn and tonight I was lucky enough to get the intro! I was impressed with every part of my meal tonight. The pea soup with scallops and bacon was delicious. I never thought that a lamb cutlet could be upstaged by a braised shoulder pie - but it was - and the chocolate delice was amazing! I can't remember the last time I had a meal that was great from start to finish. I would definitely go back, recommend it to all, and hope to take the husband next time we are in Christchurch. Debbie and her team are attentive, professional and genuinely appear to enjoy doing what they do. Long may it continue!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Mark Field (2) on 15th January 2010

Total		8.6
Food		9
Dessert		8
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		7

We have been trying to dine at Szen for a few years, but each time we decided to go it was either fully booked or closed, so finally we made it last night. The occasion was my partner's upcoming birthday, and it was really delightful to be greeted on arrival and birthday wishes conveyed. After a glass of bubbles at the bar we were taken to our table to find a personalized menu on the table - a delightful touch.
The chef's little appetizer of eel was delightful, and the comment passed, was "More please!". For entrees we chose the Pea Soup with truffle oil - which I could easily had devoured, but we elected to share evenly, H chose the Duck and Mushroom terrine, classic in every way. Our main course were the lamb cutlet and the fish which was brill - both were delicious, beautifully cooked and full of flavor - it was great to see the fish served with the skin on! For sides we had broccoli with almond butter and the ubiquitous fries. We then shared a cheese board - the selection of cheeses were a nice safe choice, followed by a classic creme brulee.
The wine list is small but interesting - we chose a Heathcote Valley Shiraz and followed with a Rutherglen Muscat, both delicious and well priced.
The service here is excellent, friendly efficient and discreet, some of the best I've experienced here in Christchurch, and New Zealand. Friends have recommended Szen, and we are glad we have finally been Szened!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Snodge (5) on 6th January 2010

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		8
Environment		7
Toilets		N/A

We ate here for our final night of our holiday - Wednesday. The meal lived up to all our expectations given the review history on this site.
The amuse bouce of a small salmon patty was delicious. Only two of our party of four ordered starters. Both were fabulous. Three had steak which was simply devine. Tongue'n'cheek pie was quite strongly flavoured ragout in a cushion of delicate pastry, not to everyone's taste, but I certainly enjoyed mine (and theirs!). Brill was also delicious.
Desserts were outstanding. We ordered three and a spoon and went back for seconds so we tried everything but the sticky date pudding. Exceptional.
Service was really good, but maybe not quite as attentive as it could have been.
All in all we thought this a great restaurant and worth trekking out to Dallington for. We would definitely recommend it.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Julia Crowther (4) on 21st December 2009

Total		9.7
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		9

Once again the team at Sezn pulled out all the stops for our work end of year function,(44 people) no turkey or baked ham here. Just the most absolutely delicious, divinely cooked food. Exceptional menu selections. The team really know how to tantalize the taste buds. The Pea soup with scallops and bacon is to die for !!!.
So thanks Deb and the whole Sezn staff for once again making us feel welcome and special. It was just the best.

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Butterball [DineOut VIP] (68) on 17th December 2009

Total		9.1
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		10
Child Friendly	Not at all

Group of 10 for a work dinner, very warm welcome from Debbie, taken through to the delightful garden, menus with our names companies name and date on the top, we sat and enjoyed the late evening sun while sipping our cocktails, wine order sorted while we in the garden, our orders were taken while we were imbibing and when our entrees were ready we were called through to our table, we had the fixed price menu, the tortellini, duck pie and smoked salmon were the tables pick of entrees, tortellini was excellent the pastas, pastries and breads are all made in house and this attention to detail showed in the taste and presentation of each dish
Mains were Mushrooms and Spinach Wellington, Lamb Rump, Braised Pork Belly, Rib eye and Brill, along with a selection of shared dishes, the fish was served with puy lentil it was a truly beautiful simplistic meal of wonderful flavor indeed the pickiest blandest eater of the group who dislikes fish enjoyed the Brill, the rib eye’s were all cooked med rare no one was asked how they wanted there steak done they were served with a tongue & cheek pie which initially caused a few raised eyebrows execution of the dish was excellent , the braised pork though a small piece was a beautiful flavor moist with a excellent crunchy skin, one of the Mushroom Wellington eaters found the dish too rich the other thought it excellent desserts were beautifully presented crème brulee with a coffee sorbet on a pasty spoon, the portions aren’t huge and I felt like I was part of a judging table for Top Chef ( in a good way) I did come away feeling full, overall the service, quality, presentation and attention to detail were excellent and the ladies toilets………….exceptional all other restaurants take note of the toilets, would certainly go back.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: jo woods (2) on 2nd December 2009

Total		9.7
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		10
Child Friendly	Kind of

what a great night!
went here last night for my 22nd bday,walked in with you must be jo happy birthday , started the night with some cocktails at the bar, yum! then made our way 2 the table and at the top of the menu it said " tonight is all about jo happy 22nd birthday, after ordering our meals, there arrived a wee soup and a roll as a treat from the kitchen , very nice touch and yummy! meals where fantastic, maybe a lil raw with my lamb but i do tend 2 like my red meat charcol, but still tasted fantastic, and the womans toilet is just a wee haven i didnt wanna leave, even had a cocktail invented for my taste and wow what a cocktail, i bet that ones going on the cocktail list called jo's special. all n all very personal touches and a great night!!! my favorite restaurant ever! thanks guys

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: coffee freak (6) on 24th November 2009

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		10

WOW!! i dined here in May... and oh my... this place is absolutly brilliant... brilliant isn't even the word to describe this place... What ever you think is the best service/food/atmosphere... this place will blow your mind in every catorgory!
It is a wee bit out of my usual price range (im not that rich) but you get more (AND SOME) than what you pay for!! I couldn't fault anything at all!! Im left speechless in a very good way!!
Keep doing what you guys are doing there!! Best restaurant i have been to!! :)

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Worthy (1) on 22nd November 2009

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		8
Child Friendly	Yes

I had very high expectations after reading previous reviews of Sezn when I booked it for my 40th birthday celebration . I have to say I was not disapointed in any way shape or form! I struggle to fault anything about our dining experience. Every single course was cooked to perfection, a real treat. The presentation was excepetional .Even the side dishes which accompanied our mains were delish. The service was attentive and faultless and the setting was perfect.We were greeted very warmly outside as we arrived. As we sat in the courtyard Debbie provided a wrap for my friends shoulders. The menu was personalised to my occassion and nothing was a problem. No requests went un met. Its these little things that make this place so special. This is one place we will be returning to. Thank you Debbie for making my evening so speciall!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: chchfoodie (5) on 20th November 2009

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

Sezn’s I had read about in the reviews etc and had high hopes that were exceeded. We arrived to find our names printed on the menus and an intimate table with candles. The food was incredible from the starter - we shared the salmon (recommended by the waitress) which was divine, the main of lamb was perfect, I loved the puree and all the different flavours yum - especially with a couple of delicious shared sides. I had to get dessert as it was creme brulee - SO good, perfect twist (in a teacup with shortbread spoon). The service was outstanding also, they made us feel special and each course was delivered quickly they checked often on wine levels and to see if everything was ok, but never got too much like other places. Can’t wait to go back!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Mr Lu [DineOut VIP] (383) on 12th November 2009

Total		9.0
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

As I plod and plonk my way from one cutlery bedecked table to another, I do so in the knowledge that every restaurant and café is being run, invariably, for two reasons. The first is because the owners want to make a profit and the second is because they have more than a passing interest in food, the preparation and serving of it, that is. Many proprietors, of course, are blessed with a third reason and that is that they love people and they want to make people feel special, happy and well fed . Often you’ll find one or two of these criteria evident in an establishment and sometimes you’ll find all three.
Occasionally, perhaps even rarely, One encounters more than all of these put together when exceptional all round talent is evidenced, a certain charisma of the kitchen and dining room, an effusiveness of genuine purpose, all in the hands of a sort of epicurean bon vivant.
It is with the utmost pleasure that I add my humble voice to the many before me in wholehearted endorsement of the many accolades and the mountain of kudos that have been bestowed on the matriarch of Gloucester Street, Debbie Elliston.
The bank has recently granted me a generous upper level extension to the numerous mega-mortgages that bear my name and so I have been quick to mentally calculate that I should be in a position to dine out at a further 200 restaurants and cafes in the next twelve months, funded by the stunningly smart and astute investment decisions that followed the “selling of my soul” to said banks.
And so I was able to realize a dream I’d had for many, many months – to dine at Sezns. Of course, I was waiting for an appropriately important occasion to do so as I knew in my heart and felt in my bones (the stomach played a part as well I should add)that Dame Debbie would not let me down.
One of my gorgeous stepdaughters was reaching an age-related milestone in her life the next day and so we both decided Sezns was the place to have a sophisticated, quality dining experience. I knew, from several well known overseas restaurant critics who have anonymously dined at Sezns and from my local colleagues and friends, that this was going to be a somewhat special evening in terms of the food, the service and the idiosyncracies of the location, the individual restaurant ambience and Debbie herself.
I have always striven to be anonymous when dining out as I court no favours, expecting nothing more or nothing less than every other diner receives. I never use my real name and always arrive by taxi, pay by cash or use a card without my name on it. Anyone who has read Ruth Reichl’s book, Garlic & Sapphires knows exactly what I’m talking about here.
Don’t expect to see something akin to the Siena marble & crystal chandeliers in the 18th Century former ballroom now dining room of Les Ambassadeurs in Paris as Sezns is housed in a couple of old shops, delightfully converted for their present day purpose. However, you musn’t despair as there is much to obviate any reservations you might have.
You will undoubtedly, I assure you, be nothing less than overwhelmed by Debbie’s disarmingly charming manner and sense of Australian showmanship. You will be welcomed, you will be treated as a special guest, you will not fail to be impressed.
Ushered to our table in the main dining room we sat, in the comfort of a perfectly moderated temperature-controlled space, and were stunningly looked after thereafter.
From the glasses of bubbly that started our adventure, through the pinot gris, pinot noir, shiraz and ports, teas and long blacks, service was exemplary and entertaining. Our waitress was professional, well informed and courteous and we had the additional benefit, as did the other diners on the evening, of having Debbie flit about like the Camp Mother, ensuring all was well and that water glasses were kept topped up. I got the feeling that were I to have fallen asleep on the floor beside my table she would have placed a blanket over me and tucked me in!!
As an entrée the seared venison with beetroot and hazelnut salad was excellent and a very photogenic indeed. The venison was beautifully cooked and sat provocatively but with a sense of style and comfort embedded in the modestly portioned salad and matched well with the pinot overall.
Our courses arrived, intelligently timed in between our excited dinnertime conversations, and each rivaled its predecessor for top place. My main was lamb rump with olives, potato and goat cheese purée, and salsa verde. A simple yet intrinsically artistic presentation hallmarked this dish and, of course, the eating confirmed its status as the work of a very skilled, talented cuisinier. How could I not be impressed?
Follow this exquisite plate of precious pearls with a dessert of some considerable significance and more than a modicum of Mana, dark chocolate delice with peanut butter icecream and macadamia praline (along with a glass of Port) and you will not fail to understand my feeling, at the end of this evening, that Debbie Elliston has a restaurant that is a product as solid as the rock of Gibraltar, and is herself in command of an instrument of culinary precision. She has a manner as accomplished as Oprah Winfrey, as politically savvy as John Key and as friendly as Edna Everidge.
My advice: Go for the very fine food, stay for the world class individual, honest & genuine service from Madame Elliston at what is unmistakably Le palais d'Elliston de Debbie. How can I not return for more of the same?

Login to vote x7x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Tim123Ham (1) on 10th November 2009

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

We had dinner at Sezn on a Friday night and even prior to arriving the service and care for our booking was exceptional. The food and wine was delicious and Debbie made a point of suggesting a range of delicious local wines to match each course. It was a lovely evening!!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: S@lly (11) on 29th October 2009

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		8

LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! It is the second time we have been there and it just keeps getting better and better. The food is exquisite, the wine list brilliant, the service amazing. A nice touch is that they personalise your menu based on the occasion. Would recommend this to everyone.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Greg T (4) on 17th October 2009

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		8

What a fantastic restaurant - lots of fun, fantastic service, and really awesome food. We were told during the meal not to compliment the chefs, as they'd be demanding raises. But by evening's end, we weren't allowed out the door before we'd gone and thanked everyone in the kitchen. The food was exceptional, so the compliments we gave the guys were genuine. Five of us opted for the fixed price plan - starter, main, desert, and a shared dish each. The shared dishes are great - try them all!! Our waitress was a gem - really helpful, very pleasant, and keen to make sure we had a great night. We did, and we'll definitely be back!!

Login to vote x3x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: krusensue (2) on 16th October 2009

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

Debbie and her team consistently make dining at sezn a top notch experience. It's always interesting to see what's on their menu, which makes it hard to choose! Little touches like the personalised menu, the flowers for a special occassion and the handwritten plates are very well thought out and keep us going back time and time again. We have recommedned sezn to friends and colleagues knowing they will love the experience of being sezn'd!

Login to vote x3x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Matthew Comins (1) on 13th October 2009

Total		8.8
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		8
Environment		9
Toilets		7

My wife and I went to Sezn for a special treat, as it had been a few years ago when we were there, under a different head chef.
I was always a bit sceptical since he had left.But the overall readers impressions/comments totally out weighed my decision making process.
The food and wine were absolutely delicious.The price fix menu was excellent and the atmosphere was warm and engaging.
The quality of the food was second to none and the whole evening went beautifully, Well done Sezn we'll be back for sure.

Login to vote x3x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Rufus [DineOut VIP] (69) on 16th August 2009

Total		9.3
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		9

Went as group of 5. The environment in the secondary room where larger bookings was not as cosy as the main room but was pleasant. The room was also quiet until the larger bookings arrived halfway through our meals.
The starters were delicious with the spinach tortelleni being appreciated by 3 people, the salmon was delicious and the most appreciated was the duck pie.
The mains were all delicious as well as being the appropriate sizes with the venison, vegetarian wellington and tarakihi all tasting good. 2 of the extras, roasted yams and creamy mashed potato were liked but according to some the potato rosti was too salty.
The wines with the 2 courses, a chardonnay and a pinot noir, complimented them well.
The 2 puddings had the dark chocolate mousse tart and the apple pie were both appreciated.
As usual the service was exemplary being polite, efficient and friendly.

Login to vote x3x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Vanessa Thomas (10) on 12th August 2009

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		8
Child Friendly	Kind of

We went one Tuesday night and decided on the Fixed Price 5 course menu. I had the tortellini for entree, pork belly for main and dark chocolate mousse on delice. All were outstanding. We have been three times and everytime the food & service has been wonderful. A great place if you want to have consistently top food with more than just a lettuce leaf on your plate. Owners & staff very friendly and obviously enjoy hospitality.

Login to vote x2x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Snoopy11 (5) on 9th August 2009

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		9

Having read so many rave reviews about this restaurant I wondered if my expectations would be too high on my first visit this week. Not so, it was fantastic.
The compact menu with five choices of starter, main and dessert certainly ticked all the boxes for me.
I chose the duck pie for my starter, the venison rump for the main and my favourite sticky date pudding to finish. The food was fresh, cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. The service was attentive but unobtrustive.
There were some nice little extras which included a personalised menu, a complimentary pumpkin rice ball and a chocolate stylized "Happy Birthday" message on the plate of my wife's dessert. Great stuff.
If you are looking for somewhere special to eat, then this great little restaurant hits the spot.

Login to vote x2x1 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: korfballpete (1) on 23rd June 2009

Total		8.9
Food		10
Dessert		6
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		N/A

The food just exploded in my mouth from the first bite. The duck pie starter was excepional.

Login to vote x2x2 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Gourmet 22 (2) on 20th June 2009

Total		4.4
Food		5
Dessert		3
Presentation		4
Service		6
Environment		4
Toilets		4

Visited them again after been there last about 2 years ago as they really had divine food – but this time – what a let down.
We were friendly greeted and seated at the same table as last time. I had the pork terrine as entrée which was not very exiting and hubby had the duck pie which he said was pretty good. I had the ribeye steak as a main – that came with a steak pie (something which I would expect at a pub but not at a restaurant in that price range) – the steak was cooked as ordered but had quite a big chunk of fat tissue inside. Also their website states that the steak is ‘ribeye with braised ox tongue ‘n’ cheek croquette and béarnaise’ – maybe someone needs to update the website (dated 19.February 2009). Hubby had the ‘mushroom and spinach Wellington’ which he said that it did not really leave an impression. The mains are all $32 and come without sides or salad – they need to be ordered separately and are $8 each which we found quite pricey. As dessert I had the cheeseboard – I got 3 microscopic sized pieces of cheese, 3 tasteless crackers, 3 pieces of mini pita bread and a bit of raisin chutney – the price - $15. I never had a smaller sized cheese board in my life and it was definitely not worth the price.
As they are praised to be a top level restaurant it was disappointing that they still do not appear to have a heating system – we ordered a bottle of red wine - the wine was served cold, never reached the right temperature and therefore did not taste as good as it could have. Also the chairs are still the same cheap looking and not very comfy wooden bistro chairs and the men’s toilet is like an open shed with spider webs on the ceiling. Compared to that the ladies toilet (there is only one) was decorated with about 20 candles and rose leaves.
It was quite disappointing and we will not be back for quite some time

Login to vote x5x5 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: canterburygirl (14) on 20th June 2009

Total		9.4
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

The best restaurant I have been to in Christchurch in 2009! The service was fantastic from the moment you walk in side. They really go the extra mile to make it a speacial evening.
We had the prix fixe menu and were not disappointed. Everything was devine. From the first bite to the last it was a real treat.
We will definitely be visiting again soon.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: allblacks_no1fan (2) on 13th June 2009

Total		8.8
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		7
Toilets		6

Amazing Food, service, an awesome dinning experience for a special night. Thank you

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: siouxzihnn (1) on 11th June 2009

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		10
Toilets		10

This neighbourhood restaurant is a wonderful gem, and has never failed to deliver an excellent dining experience. Whether you are celebrating or just catching a mid-week main you always get the same excellent service and personal touch. Debbie is the best hostess I have ever encountered and her team is great. To anyone nearby who has never been there is just one thing to say "GO!"!!!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: helenea (3) on 8th June 2009

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

After reading the reviews on DineOut, and raves about it from friends, we booked ourselves in for dinner one chilly thursday evening...we were not disappointed at all.
I cant praise Sezn enough for their service, attentiveness, food and environs.
I had the pumpkin and marscapone tortellini with almonds and sage...delicious it is absolutely worth the visit to try just this!
my main was the mushroom and spinach wellington with rocket, pear and parmesan salad....incredibley cooked to perfection and tasted as good as well! and the salad was well dressed and tastey
My meat eating husband tasted both of my dishes and was suitably impressed at the taste sensations they packed into both the ravioli and the wellington...Excellent Vego options Sezn, well done!
My husband chose the entree of duck pie with parsnip puree and apple salad which was delicious and for a main he chose venison rump with braised shoulder pithivier, beetroot gratin and chocolate jus ...suitabley impressed and left not a smattering on his plate.
We chose roasted beetroot, rocket and horseradish cream and the honey roasted carrots and parsnips to share with our mains....both great choices.
Unfortunately we couldnt muster the room for even a shared dessert, but the upside of that is, we will just have to return again...and soon!
Upon paying our bill, we were asked about our dinner, and i mentioned the raves on this website we had read about them, I was then asked if the reviews lived up to the expectation...i said no...and quickly added that they had exceeded my expectations...which were very high to start with.
A great night out and cant wait to return

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: mark bennett (1) on 6th June 2009

Total		9.6
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Our last visit to this restaurant I was surprised with a proposal. The staff couldn't have been more helpful in helping my fiance plan the big question. Last night's visit was for my birthday and again exceptional service and the food was just to die for. The food is the best that I have had in NZ since returning from UK. Keep up the great effort, hope to visit again soon!!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: vantage (3) on 5th June 2009

Total		6.8
Food		7
Dessert		6
Presentation		8
Service		8
Environment		7
Toilets		3

after reading many glowing reviews came to see for myself. First impressions were good once we got through the door and bar was nice. Enjoyed getting an appetiser - was unexpected and bread roll was hot and very nice. Had pie and pork belly and the wife had terine and fish. Pie was v good, pork belly not so much - dry and very small. I was surprised to see that no veges or carbs came with main for the price i think this is unacceptable. Terine was a bit bland but nice enough and the fish well cooked with a nice sauce. sorbet in between was tasty. Ordered some fries PDQ which were excellent. Desert was ok but a bit unimaginative. Presentation and service very good.
Overall food was good but nothing like as good as the reviews would suggest. Prices were expensive and meal would have been too small without sides which were extra. high prices were so to cover the 'free' extras like sorbet and bread. Interesting a friend ate there not long after and also thought good but not great. won't be back as there are too many other really good restaurants in CHCH

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: MaryanneT (1) on 27th May 2009

Total		9.4
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Myself and my husband had a wonderful dinner here. The best restaurant we had been to in a long time where everything was just how we wanted. Exceptionally presented delicious food and you could experience three courses for a reasonable price. Nice wine menu too and the service was great with friendly well presented staff! Will definitely return and take some friends or family as well next time.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: romeo (2) on 16th May 2009

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

We dined here with two of our friends in March. We were delighted with the professional yet friendly service we received. The evening we dined was "Earth Hour" so the lights were off and candles lit throughout the restaurant.
We were seated promptly and proceeded to order our meals. The food was exceptional and all four of us were complimentary. Could not fault the food or the service, which was unobtrusive but attentive. Decided it was the best restaurant we had experienced for a long time.
All in all a lovely meal, and we all intend to go back!
The pumpkin ravioli is delicious!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Lovefood (9) on 16th May 2009

Total		9.4
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Loved this restaurant in every way. being an ex chef I can be a fussy diner. This was exceptional. Great flavour combinations, great service, warm, welcoming and inclusive. The outdoor area is great - cold last night but the owner with blankets for our shoulders made teh time outside more pleasant. The ladies toilets are amazing ( I know - a funny thing to comment on!).
The extra attention to detail was well appreciated and has made us a fan of Sezn. An absolutely fantastic dining experience in every way!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Jean Genie (13) on 8th May 2009

Total		9.7
Food		10
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

After having heard great things about Sezn from several friends, my boyfriend and I finally booked in for a meal - and were not disappointed! We were greeted by Debbie who was very friendly and welcoming and the service from our waitress was also impeccable. We opted for starters and mains (sadly enough, we were physically unable to fit in any dessert!) and before the starters came out we were served with a gorgeous little filo-pastry venison pie - bonus! I opted for the pumpkin and marscapone tortellini and my partner had the seared salmon. I don't eat seafood but was assured the salmon was fantastic, whilst my tortellini was divine. For mains, neither of us could go past the pork belly and loin - perfectly cooked and incredibly tasty. I'd highly recommend Sezn to others and we'll definitely return (and next time I WILL conquer a dessert!)

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: PaulH (1) on 8th May 2009

Total		9.4
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		N/A

I had heard that it was a great place to dine but all my expectations were exceeded. The quality service has to be experienced to be believed. The food was beyond comparison. The bar has been set very high in the areas that matter most, I will be definately returning there soon!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: ljmccorkindale (1) on 7th May 2009

Total		9.7
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		10
Toilets		9

I recently needed to organise a work function for over 30 people (a retirement dinner) and had great difficulty in finding a nice, reasonably priced restaurant that could seat that many people in one private room.
Then I found Debbie.
She was a great help to me as organiser, inviting me in to the restaurant to look around, to sample the wines and discuss and choose the best wines for the group on the night to fit my budget, to sourcing a projector screen for us for a presentation to be made during the party. The set menu (which was personalised for our party on the night) was varied enough to suit all tastes (and might I say that the tortellini entree that I had was to.die.for.).
On the night of the party, she greeted me with a glass of the wine that I had raved about in our earlier meeting, and proceeded to personally greet all all of our guests and very admirably learning at least half of all of our guests names! (and continued to use those names throughout the night). We started the evening outside in the beautiful courtyard which was lovely and sheltered, before moving inside to the private room, where we had a dedicated team of staff looking after us, ensuring our food flowed out from the kitchen very smoothly.
Whilst the private dining area was perfect for our purposes, for such a small venue, it is surprising how little impact (I hope) we seemed to make on other diners in the restaurant: a group the size of ours of course would be rowdy, but the noise didn't seem to carry out to the rest of the restaurant at all.
As further testament to Sezn, I received nothing from praise from the members of my group (this is very unusual!) about the restaurant, the food, the wine and the atmosphere.
All in all, I cannot rate Sezn highly enough as a venue for medium-large group dining (and I've organised a lot of large group dinners before!) - I tried to sumbit this review with all 10s but dineout.co.nz won't let me!
I can't wait to go back to Sezn as a casual diner.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: gtgibson (1) on 9th April 2009

Total		9.5
Food		10
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		10
Child Friendly	Not at all

If ever the experession a rose between thorns could be used to describe a restaurant, then this is the place to use it on. Set out of the way and nestled between some a very unassuming corner shops, walking through the door at Sezn’s is like walking through the door of a magical wardrobe.
I first dined at Sezn’s for a wedding banquet about a year ago and was blown away by the quality of the seven course wine matched gestation menu. We were served seven amazing dishes with a wine matched for each course. Rich, aromatic, tender, melt in your mouth dining. Being a wedding, the meal went late in to the night, and was followed by quality drinks at the bar, and good conversation with the friendly and relaxed restaurant staff. The mood of this place I describe as ‘sexy’. The perfect restaurant to ‘woo’ your one true love. Low lighting, comfortable seating, richly coloured beautiful interior decorations – and all without being pretentious or stuck up.
I was really surprised to come back to the restaurant for the first time since the wedding- and to have the manager recognised us! (I don’t think we were that memorable). She knew our names, asked after the wedding couple. It was a really nice touch, and we felt welcome from the start.
The bar staff and waiters are mostly foreign, oh-so beautiful and exotic. I get a real kick out of being served food by a waitress with a gorgeous Gaelic or European accent.
The food presentation is still immaculate, and the service top notch. The menu has obviously changed since we were last there, but it was still absolutely delicious. Rich and warm, and perfectly sized servings. If only I could afford to eat at a restaurant every night… *sigh*
My only regret is not trying the toilet - my wife raves about it.
If you are ever in the neighbourhood, and are looking for simply the best dining experience in Christchurch without the pomp, but all the quality, try Sezn’s. It's great.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: jemhayward (3) on 8th April 2009

Total		9.0
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		N/A

We're visiting from the UK. We've eaten at Raymond Blanc's restaurant in Oxford uk, we've eaten food prepared by a protege of Heston Blumenthal - and Sezn is up with the best of them. Service and welcome is excellent, the food well thought out, imaginitive and tasty. We had individual glasses of wine with each course, and the matches were excellent. Wines were well priced and well served. Coming from the uk, the prices were really competitive. We were made to feel very welcome and special, with our own personalised menu, and even a hand crafted treat with a glass of fine port to finish.
This must be one of the best restaurants in the NZ, maybe in the world. Next time I go, I will try out the toilets too!

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Wannabe Kiwi (7) on 8th April 2009

Total		9.9
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

Well what can I say? Sezn certainly lives up to its reputation. I booked the table about five weeks ago and upon booking I was asked what the occasion was, who was coming, any dietery requirements etc etc.
When we arrived at the restaurant Debbie, the owner, greeted us at the door. She knew who I was anyway but she had never met my father and step mother who are visiting from England, yet she remembered their names and greeted us all accordingly.
After enjoying a cocktail in the bar and in the courtyard we were taken to our seats where a customised menu was on the table for us.
Rather than ordering a bottle of wine, Debbie hand picked different wines to go with different meals. I had a sweetcorn soup, followed by what I can honestly claim is one of the best steaks I have ever had in my life and a cheese board to finish off (which included a red leicester, one of my favourite cheeses from the England).
On the way home we all agreed that our meal at Sezn was up there with Le Petit Blanc in the UK, a restaurant owned by Raymond Blanc. However although the food was good it was not what made Sezn special.
The service is out of this world, everything down to the personal greeting, the table service even the complimentary port at the end of the evening. I will go back here time and time again and if you havent been the number is at the top of the page. Call and make a reservation now.
Oh and check out the toilets....

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: shannon_g (14) on 6th April 2009

Total		9.4
Food		10
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		8

This restaurant is something special Its like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
We went here back in November 08 for a double birthday with a group of friends.
The staff made this an enjoyable and relaxing night.
When you first enter Sezn you are greated by a nicely light bar and offered some drinks before your table is ready. When you do head through to your table, its like a hidden room behind the curtain that opens into a formal restaurant that you would not expect to be hiding out the back.
Menus and the table is all set to go. We all ordered a 4 course set menu and that was all we had to do.
Food coming out of the kitchen was presented at the perfect times and no questions were asked who was having what. The staff knew exactly who was having what dish.
The dessert was even better, they go the extra mile for out birthday boys and personalised their desserts with a nice finishing touch.
The price is a little more than you cheap night out, but for the dining experience of a 5 class restaurant, this is definately value for money!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: nulli secundus [DineOut VIP] (194) on 4th April 2009

Total		9.0
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		9

When Sir Winston Churchill said " the things we like are either immoral or bad for us " he obviously had not had the opportunity to visit Sezn, nor would he have the opportunity to experience a high degree of excellence in a restaurant-a-la-suburbia. He may well have been the Grandson of the Duke of Marlborough, but he also would not have footed it with Debbie the Mayoress of Dallington !
We entered Sezn at 6p.m with the most delightful jazz band doing their thing at the bar..The aptly named trio "Savour " set the scene in this restaurant to the enjoyment of all. I am totally and utterly convinced that no matter where you are situated in Christchurch, if you provide a service of excellence.in all respects ,your restaurant will do extremely well. The eastern suburb of Dallington is one of Christchurch's smallest being only 1.3 sq kilometres and containing only 3600 citizens ,so Sezn not only has to cater for the local yokels but rely on their reputation fo attract other nefarious travellers like me and my lot ... Last week it was Mrs Nulli's birthday and off we went to Cook,n with Gas ...now 5 days later it was my birthday and after reading the reviews about Sezn we thought " here goes " We changed the booking twice from 7p.m to 8p.m and then from 2 to 4 people as the family joined us at the last moment ....but all this seemed so easy for Sezn ..no body language saying " oh ! God they can't make their minds " or " is this the family from hell " we were most impressed.
The owner Debbie something-or other was mingling with her flock of money laden chickens for this most pleasant , smily, cheerful and I-am-so-proud-of-my restaurant person was clucking around like mother hen in a most enchanting way ,....not too obtrusive but making us and everyone else extremel;y welcome . We knocked off a bottle or two of Fiddlers Green Sav Blanc at the bar enjoying the complimentary bowls of cashews and then commenced our culinary journey. we switched to another local wine, the Sandihurst 2006 Pinot Gris and let this cooly scented wine with it's spicy finish gulletise in the depths of our throats.
Not content with free jazz,and free cashews we were then served a shot of steinlager with a mini-me pizza the size of a penny ....what a great touch ...for I've always believed that the " best things in life are free !!" The Scottish lass that served us was delightful as was Rob Roy at the bar...I chose the Pork Belly with fresh coleslaw. This was perfectly cooked and presented on a rectangle plate. The pork was in two parts , one part being cut into a square sandwich-like object with a hat of smooth yet not too crisp crackling on top ...real novel and competing with the main pork belly which was all pork and no fat belly ,a pork loin gratin and celeriac roulade . Great tucker for birthday boy !. With a side salad of rocket and with homecut chips sitting up in a cone of silence I forgot my age ...I was in "Excellent Land in the Coles Book Arcade Picture Book " Leaving the live sunflowers on the table unscathed ( cos they looked good enough to eat ) we all made a brief bathroom stop ( not all at the same time !! ) and for God's Sake ! they were excellent too.
Glowing Report...? why not ? The Mayoress of Dallington was on the night re elected unopposed in her restaurant ...the place of all Sezns ..
.....finally I would like to dedicate this review to the late BadBaxter for I know he too was a man of Excellence and as we continue our Dine Out journey I am sure his journey too will be one where Angels dine ....

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: wineo2 (6) on 3rd April 2009

Total		8.0
Food		9
Dessert		7
Presentation		7
Service		8
Environment		8
Toilets		N/A

I made a reservation on-line for my birthday, and Debbie got right back to me asking if I had any dietary restrictions and how young I was turning (!).
We arrived a bit early and were greeted with a friendly smile and handshake from Debbie. We had a drink at the bar (GREAT Otago bubble - Arcadia) and then were seated at our table. I was thrilled to notice they had printed a special menu for me wishing me a happy birthday - wonderful touch.
We both ordered the prix fixe menu and our waitress came out with a really unique amuse bouche - a one-bite pizza with a shot of Speights! really fun. I had the salmon starter, which was very good, but my husband's corn soup was amazing - full of flavor but not too creamy. It came with a mini "epi" - real french bread that tasted like they had to have a bread oven in the back! I moved on to the Vege main - good but not that exciting, and my husband had the steak - done the way he likes with a tasty pat of mushroom butter. We both had a side - the french fries with the two sauces was great, but our side of beans was way undercooked, and even when they took them back and returned with another, they were still underdone.
I ordered the cheese board - ok, nothing I haven't seen before, and my husband had the date pudding - really yummy, and I don't typically like dates.
The wine list is small - it could use a few more reds from NZ other than pinot noir, but well chosen and decently priced.
Overall, it was a very good dinner with happy, efficient service and really good food.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: lydiaanne (1) on 2nd April 2009

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		10

I had such an amazing night! Not only was the food delicious, but the service was exceptional and the toilets were worth photographing. Well done!

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Big Rich (1) on 1st April 2009

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		8
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		8

A real surprise and totally exceeded expectation and perception. The food and service were first class. Price wise it was at the mid to upper end of the scale but value for money . You certainly felt your go real bang for your buck. If you love food you should give Sezn a crack. You won't be disappointed.

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Mystery [DineOut VIP] (92) on 25th March 2009

Total		9.1
Food		9
Dessert		N/A
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		10

My second visit to Sezn, this time as part of a large group (30ish) in the private room. Debbie and her team were welcoming and very efficiently attended to all our needs during the evening. Lovely bread platters to start, with olive oil and tapenade should you wish to indulge (the bread was so good on its own that I didn't). We then selected mains from the menu, with sides to share being distributed around the table. My rib eye steak with beef croquette and mushroom butter was divine (esp the croquette), and there were happy murmurings all around me as others enjoyed their own choices.
We didn't have dessert (tho I did stare longingly at the choices, my favourite lemon tart was not on the list but the lemon meringue pie looked like it would have done me...). Sigh. Next time.
The women's bathroom was just stunning, so beautiful that I would have photographed it had I a camera with me. Totally romantic and girlie.
Debbie says the secret ingredient at Sezn is 'love' - which could be a little corny EXCEPT Debbie and her team walk the walk. A woman out in the courtyard enjoying a predinner drink was brought a wrap in case she was a little chilly. Another was remembered (including her unusual food allergy) from a visit around a year earlier. Personalised menus to commemorate the event. It's little things like these that make diners feel like special guests, instead of just another faceless customer. Awesome job

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Yum (12) on 24th March 2009

Total		9.8
Food		10
Dessert		10
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		8
Toilets		10

I went to this restaurant with rather low expectations. The guest of honour picked this restaurant because it had fantastic diner feedback. I am pleased he did. We didn't go for the $65 set menu (but we will next time). It seemed a lot of money. I don't mind paying but if I do it had better be good. I'd like to use an expletive here to emphasise how fantastic the food was but don't want my review disallowed. I was blown away. We were a table of 8 everybody adored the food it was amazing. The service was fantastic. The hand crafted fries the best fries I've ever had. The pork dish was outstanding. The cheese plate was delicious. I spoke with the owner and a couple of wait staff and poked my nose into the kitchen to say thanks they were all charming, knowledgeable, passionate professionals. Thank you so much for a bloody wonderful meal.
PS Ladies you must use the toilets they are beautiful

Login to vote x3x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: manic (2) on 23rd March 2009

Total		8.7
Food		8
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		8
Environment		8
Toilets		9

Brilliant service and food! The sticky date pudding for desert has to be the best desert i have ever tasted!!!
Great presentation and price!
Will definitely be back sometime

Login to vote x0x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: GEC (2) on 16th March 2009

Total		8.9
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		8
Toilets		8
Child Friendly	Extremely

Went as a group of seven for my birthday.Six adults and a seven year old.
We were personally welcomed and shown to our table which had personalised Birthday Greetings and Menu.
Staff extremely attentive and obliging.
Small taster before starter a nice touch.Wait between courses was almost perfect ,about 15mins(I hate being rushed) and all meals came to the table together.
Dessert went from plain to extremely indulgent (My choice)
Wine list a bit limited but of good quality.
Child was well looked after and enjoyed her meal and time there.
Toilets were very good, espec. women's-with handcream etc. (so I'm told)
Good parking in vicinity.
We had to book, as SEZNS was well patronised, I was of two minds writing this review as the place is so good and not too far from us and will probably get more crowded.

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: Rufus [DineOut VIP] (69) on 10th March 2009

Total		9.2
Food		9
Dessert		10
Presentation		9
Service		9
Environment		9
Toilets		7

Went as a group of 4. The set menu with a choice of starters, mains and desserts was as good as previously. The Salmon, duck, vegetable tortoleni and pork starters were all delicious with a pleasant small pie prior to this. The sorbet palate cleanser inbetween starters and mains was delicious also. Two people had venison and this was delicious as was the spinach Wellington and the other red meat mains was also scrumptious. Puddings lived up to expectations with the lemon meringue, caramel parfait and dark chocolate mousse all being full of flavour. The three courses together made for a full but not overly so palate.
Service was by a new member of staff who provided a good friendly and attentive service and the owner was her friendly self. Wine list provided a good range of tasty wines and not too expensive a price and the cocktail list looked good.
The women's toilet was very impressive apparently and the men's toilet was functional, clean and hygenic.
A great meal, good service and a great way to treat yourselves especially when used in conjunction with the dineout card.

Login to vote x2x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

Review by: jude54 (1) on 6th March 2009

Total		9.3
Food		9
Dessert		9
Presentation		10
Service		10
Environment		9
Toilets		9

Went out with small work group and had the most wonderful meal, service and attention. Will definitely go there again and tell other people about it.

Login to vote x1x0 | Add your feedback to this | Share on Facebook

« There are reviews older than 18 months, click here to show them »

48,000 views