Dux Central provides Christchurch with an eclectic venue that is home to great mixed-bistro-esk food, friendly staff, local musicians and such an engaging atmosphere. An iconic institution for kiwis in this re-developed city, Dux Central is the final installment to date of the Dux brands. Dux Live (a venue for emerging artists and live music has since closed) and Dux Dine (which still exists in Riccarton) make up the Dux footprint in this city.
Chicken Tacos @ Dux Central (photo by @neelsmcgee)
Dux Central, located in town in Poplar Street, is the perfect setting for the two-story architectural venue that boasts an impressive 5 areas for patrons to enjoy. One of the areas, also known as The Brew Bar, is every beer lover's nirvana. With over 180 beers from across the world to select from, there is an option for all. Just be careful to ensure you know how much you are spending as beers can range from $8 to $100 for a bottle.
Curly Fries @ Dux Centra (photo instagram @neelsmcgee)
The Emerald room takes the Dux's love of wine and incorporates it into a space adorned with emerald coloured velvet cushions, mood lights, dark timber furniture. Great location for a date or to hang out with friends.
My personal favourite location is upstairs on the balcony, known as The Courtyard. It's the perfect location, day or night, to indulge in a few brewskis and to enjoy some good food. With large globe lights that illuminate the venue when darkness falls, and heaters to keep guests warm, it is the perfect spot to take you from day into night.
Braised Beef Tacos @ Dux Central (Photo instagram @neelsmcgee)
Dux Central provides patrons with a comprehensive menu from starters through to mouth-watering desserts. On my arrival to this much talked about venue I instantly fell in love. Heading over at prime lunch time on a Saturday, provided me the opportunity to enjoy a
Ginger Tom ginger beer and pick a hunger buster from the menu. The stand out dish for me was the chicken tacos.
Braised Beef Sliders @ Dux Central (photo instagram @neelsmcgee)
All items (excluding desserts) are matched with a beer or wine according to your preference. So whenever in doubt, go with what is recommended. Once orders are placed with the kitchen, the wait is not too long. Friends and I had decided to share tacos, curly fries and a bottle of
Two Rivers Rose.
The tacos came out and were full of flavour with crumbed chicken perfectly seasoned along with an array of salad and seasonal avocado. Each table has a selection of hot sauces, perfect for hot-sauce lovers like me. After splashing on some of the Jalapeno sauce, I knew I was going to enjoy my feed. The curly fries, sprinkled with Cajun seasoning make the perfect side snack along with some aioli dipping sauce.
Dux Central is a perfect oasis in a city still in re-build. If you find yourself wondering where to head for a drink, Dux should definitely be on the cards. Always a great day or night out with fantastic atmosphere, good music and lots of interesting people.
