Your central city local
Tucked into The Crossing, Elements has become one of those city spots to make your local – whether it’s for a quick coffee, a long brunch with friends, a relaxed lunch, or even a celebration.
Built around three simple ideas – Escape, Relax, Refuel – Elements is designed as a place to step away from the day, settle in, and enjoy really good food and great company.
Breakfast kicks things off with a fresh, flavour-packed menu. For the truly hungry, the Farmhouse Breakfast hits the spot, while lighter options like chilli crab scramble, house-made granola, and pesto beans with stracciatella are perfect if you’re after something a little more delicate. Elements has also built a strong reputation for its signature Eggs Benedict. The classics – bacon, mushrooms, and Akaroa salmon – stay constant, while the extras change with the seasons. Right now, think potato hash, spinach, house pickles, leeks, and silky hollandaise, all working together for that perfect brunch bite. Pair it with a fresh juice, and you’re set for the day.
When brunch rolls around, the menu steps things up a notch. Pandan French toast, Okonomiyaki Japanese pancakes, spicy brisket bacon Benedict, and New Zealand lamb gnocchi bring bold flavours and guarantee full bellies. It’s also fully licensed, serving up fun, brunch-inspired cocktails and a curated drinks list, making it just as appealing for late mornings and afternoons as it is for early starts. Drop in later for lunch, with fresh salads, market fish, and dry-aged flank – ideal for a business meeting, a casual catch-up, or a leisurely city escape.
With its central location and welcoming vibe, Elements has also become a popular spot for functions. The music volume is just right, and light pours in from the first-floor windows. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, brand activation, team-building event, office night out or special celebration, the space is designed to be flexible and relaxed. General Manager Phil Cooke describes it as “a versatile space that works for all kinds of events,” with a menu that can be tailored to suit every style and group.
But beyond the food and the setting, what really sets Elements apart is its focus on people. From day one, the aim was to create a place guests genuinely want to spend time in. Over the years, Elements has grown organically, building a loyal base of regulars and strong connections with the community. “Seeing familiar faces every day is what makes this such a rewarding place to work,” says Phil. “We genuinely love looking after people, and that’s something our whole team believes in.”
Consistency has been a big focus, with clear service standards and a strong team culture ensuring every guest enjoys the same great experience, every visit. The result, Phil says, is food that’s consistently excellent, service that feels natural and warm, and a space where people feel instantly comfortable.
Looking ahead to 2026, the team has a few aims. There are plans to grow their online presence, a light rebrand, hosting more events, and highlighting their drinks offering, but one thing is central to Phil, saying “Our goal is to be known as the best brunch restaurant in Christchurch. Not just because of what’s on the plate, but because of how people feel when they walk through our doors and when they leave.”