A night to remember

Press, 19 July 1989, Page 27

A night to remember

Diners at Grimsby’s Restaurant are treated to a sense of occasion. Good, well-presented food and impeccable service in impressive surroundings make dining at Grimsby’s a night to remember.

“Each diner is very special. We look after our guests’ every need. “We want them to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves,” say the owner operators, Mr Wayne Beaumont and Mr Rex Morgan. Friendly, attentive service is an integral part of their approach. The waiters are there as equals, to talk to diners as well as look after them. The sense of occasion begins on entering the restaurant which is situated in one of Christchurch’s most historic buildings. Formerly the Christchurch Normal School, the * picturesque stone building was built more than 100 years ago. Its impressive facade was designed to overlook the street and Cranmer Square. In 1954 It became the training centre for the

post-primary department of the Christchurch Teachers College. When the centre moved to Ham in 1970 the building remained empty for some years. The section of the building which houses the restaurant was perfectly suited for the purpose, lending itself to the impressive baronial atmosphere. The Octagon Room, once the board room and then the rector’s study, has a lOm-high ceiling and original kauri beams and leadlight windows. This was superbly suited to becoming the main dining room. The Long Room with a 5 metre ceiling, was the administration centre of the building. The room shape and size remains unchanged. This is used for private parties and a small section seating up to 16 diners can be screened to form an intimate atmo-

sphere. Wayne Beaumont and Rex Morgan have been careful to retain the atmosphere of the building. In the foyer is a display of coins and papers

unearthed from a time capsule found during the renovations. Grimsby’s takes its name from the fishing port of Grimsby, England. The emphasis of the food is on fresh New Zealand produce, particularly from Canterbury.

The style has changed with the times, the owners say. Innovative dishes,

served with light sauces to complement the meat are distinctive features of the menu. Fresh bread is baked daily on the premises. Beautiful desserts are a temptingly indulgent way to end the evening’s dining. Grimsby’s is one of the few restaurants with a silver lamb Cuisine Award, which they received for their rack of lamb. Extra touches to help guests enjoy their night out are the fruit sorbet to clean the palate and em-

broidered hot towels brought out when guests have finished their meal. Grimbsby’s Restaurant seats 42 diners. It is open for dinner from Mondays to Saturdays.