Iconic Christchurch restaurant tram back on the tracks

9 December 2014

Iconic Christchurch restaurant tram back on the tracks

Christchurch’s restaurant tram is set to restart its dinner service from tomorrow (Wednesday 10 December).

The tram has been out of action since the February 2011 earthquakes, but repairs to the tram loop and a refurbished tram will see the service resume.

Christchurch Tram operators, Welcome Aboard have refreshed the menu and refined the restaurant service. Managing director Michael Esposito says the reinstatement of the restaurant tram has been much anticipated.

“Every day for the last few months we’ve had enquiries about the restaurant tram. It’s such a unique experience and Christchurch people will love showing guests around the transforming city while enjoying a quality meal.”

“It’s a little bit of nostalgia or history combined with a modern menu, plus the new city scape – we can’t wait to see people’s reactions to the new service,” says Michael.

Welcome Aboard have spent this week trialling the menu on the tram and are encouraging guests to book well in advance to avoid disappointment- especially over the busy summer months.

The à la carte menu, crafted by chefs from Rangiora based company Continental, has been tailored to showcase Canterbury and New Zealand cuisine. Where possible the chefs have selected produce from the region.

Gary Roberts head chef at Continental says “We’ve had to overcome some logistical challenges that preparing meals on a moving tram presents, we are really proud of the food and are looking forward to serving guests.”

A portion of the food is prepped off site and then made to order in the tight on-board tram kitchen.

The restaurant tram service runs from 7:00pm to 9:30pm departing from Cathedral Junction. Guests will enjoy a four course meal ($95 per person, including a complimentary beverage on arrival) aboard the colonial style tram. They will hear a short commentary at the beginning of the journey and travel around the newly opened inner city tram loop, stopping at various locations to take in the sights.

About Welcome Aboard
Other businesses owned by Welcome Aboard include; Punting on the Avon, the Christchurch Gondola and Jet boating, Bungy Jumping, Quad Biking, and River Rafting at Hanmer Springs.www.tram.co.nz

About Continental
Continental is a family owned and operated business which was established in 1965. The business operates two main divisions - Event Catering and Event Equipment Hire – as well as actively managing venues and the original Bakery on the Percival Street site. Continental also operate Kingsford Kitchen a day time eatery located at the Head Office 6 Kingsford Smith Drive, Southbrook, Rangiora.

www.continental.co.nz

ENDS

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