Where we’re eating and drinking
There’s no rest for the food-obsessed... when the dish team isn’t bringing you delicious recipes, we’re out there trawling far and wide in search of tasty fare. Below, we share our latest favourite haunts.
1 Claire Aldous, Food Editor
Rhu, Parnell: Rhu is a new all-day eatery in Parnell by chef Tushar Grover and his team, serving up reimagined classic dishes. No bog-standard fare here. A delicious but rich, Steamed Egg and Bacon Cream with housemade sourdough is their take on bacon and eggs; an epic Fried Chicken Sandwich on milk bread and the Charred Avocado and Kimchi on toast make up some of the dishes on their short, but carefully-curated menu. Nice to see Pierre Bernardu is back seamlessly managing the front of house. @rhu_akl
2 Monique Bulman, Publisher Services Manager
Mexicano, Christchurch: What better way to wind down after the foodshow than with Frozen Margarita’s at Mexicano's in Christchurch. We chowed down on the ceviche, tacos and beef quesadillas. All big flavoured with plenty of heat. Such a fun vibe and décor with great fast paced service., easy on the purse too! mexicanos.co.nz
3 Caitlin Whiteman Digital Editor
Matakana Market Kitchen: In retrospect, I'm realising that this experience is slightly embarrassing because despite being presented with a gorgeous (if not overwhelming) menu that had over 50 options for brunch (I counted), I still opted for the avocado toast. However, this proved to be the best I have ever had. This small town gem is nestled amongst the bustling Village Farmers Market with a gorgeous view of the Matakana River. If you're having a weekend trip up north, this is well worth the visit. PS for our gluten-free friends - there's an entirely separate menu that's gluten-free! matakanamarketkitchen.co.nz
4 Chrisanne Terblanche, Art Director
Caretakers Cottage, Melbourne. This little bar in the heart of Melbourne is literally in an old caretaker's cottage behind Wesley Church. Some of the best cocktails I have ever had. The team behind the bar are masters at their craft and clearly love what they do. I also overheard a man enthusiastically telling his friend, 'It’s the best Guinness pint outside of Ireland.' The music was fantastic, the service was great, and the ambiance of the old cottage has that X factor that makes Melbourne just so damn cool. Do note, the bar is tiny and they don’t take bookings, but it’s worth the wait or showing up a bit early. caretakerscottage.bar
5 Yvonne Lorkin Wine Editor
Craggy Range, Hawkes Bay: The $95 set seasonal menus at Craggy Range Restaurant just outside of Havelock North in Hawke’s Bay are jaw-achingly delicious. Set aside a good two hours to fully appreciate deliciousness in the form of Pecorino cheese fritters with harissa mayonnaise and venison tartare, tarragon sauce & potato chip. The long-low and slow cooked Glazed lamb shoulder, almond cream, cavolo nero & pine nut crumb to share, is falloff-the-bone beautiful. And their lemon posset is my pick of desserts. Chef Casey Mcdonald and his team just roar with talent and I suggest following their guided wine picks with every course. craggyrange.com
6 Tamsin Morgan Deputy Editor
Cave á Vin, Milford: This intimate wine bar is a favourite amongst North Shore locals for its great selection of wines and plates. The home-made sourdough bread is exceptional, as are the special dishes which change with the season if you want more of a meal than their epic charcuterie board. Their specialty is natural wines and you'll find some amazing varieties from here and abroad. It gets busy, so best to be in early (after a walk along the beach) or book ahead. Especially if you want to sit outside and watch the world go by. cafeavin.co.nz