Spectators Bar & Bistro sits on the ground floor of Addington's Metropolitan Stand, putting the dining room only metres from the harness racing action. Entry is free when the bar opens for public race nights, and parking is close to the door. Inside are regular tables and bar leaners; outside, the seating opens directly onto the lawn near the winning post, giving a casual meal the atmosphere of the track.
The food is built for relaxed, social eating. Cheesy garlic and sweet chilli flatbreads can start a table, while chilli and lime corn ribs, spiced-plum pork belly bites and loaded wedges bring larger flavours. Shark & Tatties pairs Emerson's-battered elephant fish with salad and tartare sauce. There are also fried seafood or vegetable plates and two straightforward pasta choices for diners who want something away from the fryer.
Pizza covers six distinct combinations. Margherita keeps things simple, Bacon Almighty combines three cuts of bacon with barbecue sauce, and Chunky's Special uses smoked meats, chipotle and red onion. Thai chicken brings yellow curry and cashews, Neptune's Catch layers prawns, salmon and fried capers, and Mediterranean Feast uses pulled lamb, feta, olives and tzatziki. Burgers and sandwiches add further pub classics, including a minute-steak Bookmaker and a generously filled bacon buttie.
A broad tap-beer, wine, spirits and non-alcoholic selection matches the bar's race-night role, while a children's platter makes the menu workable for families as well as groups of friends. Monthly events and changing race-meeting specials give regulars reasons to return. When Spectators is not operating as a public local, the same trackside room can be booked privately for birthdays, work functions and celebrations.
Address: 75 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand
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