Gatherings Restaurant is an intimate restaurant at Unit 5, 2 Papanui Road in Merivale, Christchurch, rated 4.7 from 320 Google reviews. The website recommends reservations, as seating is limited, and says groups of up to twenty can be accommodated by arrangement.
The website describes a menu that changes weekly with the seasons, using organic vegetables, wild and ethically farmed meats and sustainably sourced seafood. The wine list focuses on organic and low-intervention producers, with a small selection of craft beers and spirits. Guests can choose a set menu, and groups of 8 to 20 can book the whole restaurant for a private long lunch on a Friday or Saturday. Reviewers mention oysters, a degustation menu, a feed-me option and a beetroot and smoked eel salad, and call it a cosy wine bar.
At a restaurant built around seasonal produce, ask what is best that week and consider a set menu or feed-me option so the kitchen can guide you. Book ahead for small rooms.
For a seasonal sharing meal in Merivale, Gatherings on Papanui Road is a good booking.