It was a stunning calm day in Christchurch's Central City, everyone basked in the glorious sun and chatted happily in the garden of the Good Habit café, a former nunnery. After a while of enjoying the company of newfound friends, the feast was served. Four main dishes were presented, two vegetarian curries, a rich dish with lamb and onion, and one with a tomato base, chicken, and eggs. On the side were a range of colourful, tasty salads and traditional Injera bread.

Soon enough the buzz of conversation had given way to plate-scraping and the clatter of cutlery and there was a queue for seconds! The Snit chefs were beaming with pride. How incredible it feels to share kai together!

Meron, the spokesperson for Snit, talked of how excited she was to have the opportunity to share food with new people and to see the reaction of guests trying meals that she loved. As we know, food is so meaningful to us, and tells stories of who we are and where we come from. Over the course of the night, several guests commented that they’d never tried Eritrean food and were so touched to have been a pilot group for Share Kai.

Later in the evening, we sat together once more over a cup of traditional Eritrean coffee, bread, and popcorn. Roasted while guests watch then boiled and served in tiny cups, the coffee is strong and rich, and can take several hours to prepare. With full tummies, we can confidently say this was a magical night to be remembered, and we’re so excited to run the series of Share Kai and Kōrero community events with our chefs in February 2023 and we hope you join us!

Share Kai and Kōrero, at The Stanmore Back Yard, 97 Stanmore Road, Friday evenings 6 – 8pm:

February 10th – Eritrean kai and culture
February 17th – Afghani kai and culture
February 24th – Nepali kai and culture
March 3rd – Persian kai and culture

All meals $15 per plate, snacks under $10, drinks under $5.

Come along, bring the whānau and your appetite!