The Feed | The New Zealand Food News You Need To Know

It's that time of the week again. Get ready to feast your eyes on all the hottest food news from around Aotearoa. We’ve got the inside scoop on all the latest and greatest openings, collabs, events, products and more so you can spend less time researching and more time munching (because priorities, people).

Never miss a new opening or upcoming event in Aotearoa again—get us in your inbox here.

Restaurant Month Is Back And Celebrating 15 Years Of Feasting 

Image credit: Heart Of The City | B Beattie

Forks at the ready, one of the largest events in Tāmaki Makaurau's culinary calendar is set to return this August. The Heart of the City Auckland Restaurant Month will be dishing up it's signature offering of $55+, $45 and $30 menus (the latter being a proverbial middle finger to the recession) plus some swish events you'll want to lock in, stat, like La Zeppa's one-night-only transformation into a 1920s speakeasy, Chow Luck Club's iconic walking tours, a taco masterclass at Tacoteca and Korean eats with a side of Kpop dance workshops at Hazy Tiger. This year also marks the launch of a totally new Culinary Passport series with some seriously exciting curated progressive dinners. 

The Great NZ Toastie Takeover Returns Hot Off The Sandwich Press

Image credit: MadameSocial | Instagram

With all the cheese melts and McClure’s spicy pickles one can acceptably eat between two pieces of bread in one sitting, The Great NZ Toastie Takeover returns for its eighth year. Created by Cook & Nelson, this year has over 200 venues across Aotearoa slinging toasties in all shapes and forms, from brioche-bunned, sesame-crusted, to allll the cheese-pulled and pickle-packed varieties—even prawn toast (pictured above). Make it a great Kiwi toastie road trip and try them all until 5th August. 

Win Free Lunch For An Entire Year

Image credit: Commercial Bay | supplied

Battling with your colleagues over who has the best taste in lunch? Well, listen up. Harbour Eats Fork And Fame Awards is giving you the chance to put your lunch money where your mouth is. The month-long competition will see all the schmick eateries in Harbour Eats go plate-to-plate with winners being crowned in categories like bang for buck, best dish to flirt over, plant-based eats, messy feeds, sweet treat and fork-free.

The judge? You, plus a panel made up of Anna King Shahab, Gareth Stewart, Sam Low and Tabitha Lorck and special guests MasterChef NZ grand finalist Elliot McClymont and Pic Picot, founder of Pic's Peanut Butter. Yep, the pros are going to drop their two cents and you've got a chance to cast your vote, too, to see who'll take out the coveted title of People's Choice. Hit Harbour Eats between 30 June and 31 July, chow down then cast your vote to have your say. Plus, you might just win lunch for a year while you're at it. In this economy? Hell to the yes. 

Tuck Into Milford’s Foodie Month This July 

Image credit: Milford Motel | Craving NZ (Instagram)

Get ready for a foodie month of feasting—Milford’s eateries are doing up special signature menus at set prices for Milford Foodie Month starting this Tuesday. For all of July, eight participating restaurants and bars in the neighbourhood are taking part—including Khu Khu, Galata Kebab & Grill, Milford Motel and Pym’s of Milford to name a few (and don’t forget a Pym’s prawn cocktail while you’re there). Share your Milford eats and win a $250 dining voucher for your next Milford dinner date too. Sweeeet.

Cook The Perfect BBQ Brisket With A Bourbon Cocktail In Hand 

Image credit: Stone Oven / Crate Kitchen | Josh Griggs (Supplied)

Learn how to prepare and cook the perfect brisket—with all the tips on BBQ rubs and smoking techniques, to slicing like a pitmaster pro with the experts at Stone Oven this Thursday night. Shake things up with a bourbon cocktail masterclass to pair with the juiciest brisket burger and fries you’ll ever have. Sign up here. 

Wellington’s Iconic Little Penang Is Coming To Tāmaki Makaurau  

Image credit: SO/Auckland | supplied

The legendary Aunty Bee from Little Penang is coming to SO/ Auckland for a Peranakan Nyonya cuisine takeover for three nights, this Thursday 3rd July to Saturday 5th July. Pick your Lil P faves like their flavoursome Kapitan chicken curry, or a Harbourside Society twist on their Otak Otak—a spiced fish custard steamed in banana leaf and then cooked over SO/’s mānuka wood-fired grill. Make your booking stat—we’re eyeing up everything on the menu—plus a necessary side of sambal. 

Channel Tropical Island Vibes, One Sip At A Time

Image credit: RUM Co.  | supplied

If your winter is feeling a little too grey, we’ve got the ultimate ticket to island time—no passport required.  RUM Co. of Fiji® has  just dropped FIJI DRY® in Aotearoa, and it’s set to be your new go-to for those crisp, laid-back sips. Think golden Fijian rum (crafted with decades of island know-how) expertly mixed with Schweppes’ premium Dry Ginger Ale or Lemon, Lime & Bitters—basically, it’s a South Pacific holiday in a can. Whether you’re winding down after work or turning up the weekend, FIJI DRY® is here to help you sip back and relax—no sand between your toes required.

Enter The Hotdog Eating Contest At Churly’s Tex-Mex Tailgate Party 

Image credit: Churly’s Brewpub | Instagram

Churly’s are bringing back their legendary Fourth of July tailgate party this year—complete with a hotdog eating competition. For a fun, family-friendly event with a special Tex-Mex spread (we hear there’s beer-battered pickles), live band, face-painting, apple-bobbing, pumpkin-bowling (you heard it here first), cake and Behemoth Brewing beers, it’s a party to remember. Don’t forget to sign up for a chance to be crowned this year’s hotdog eating champ here.

This Brewery And Bakery Are Running A Chocolate Stout and Pie Pop-Up

Image credit: Mythica Brewing | Supplied

North Shore’s Mythica Brewing are teaming up with NZ Supreme Pie Champs of ‘21 Euro Patisserie Torbay to create the ultimate chocolate stout and pie combo this Saturday 5th July. Get your hands on a stout-cooked steak and cheese, complete with jalapeno & bacon additions, venison steak & cheese or a vegetarian number. Beer lovers, complete the combo with their new beer release. Details here. 

Eat Your Way Through This Self-Guided Progressive Long Lunch

Image credit: Muy Muy Margarita Bar | Instagram

Pack your stretchy pants, Wine N’ Dine debuts at Christchurch this Saturday. A self-guided progressive long lunch hosted by Neighbourhood Events, make your way through the neighbourhood and stop in all the cool spots slinging signature small plates with Aotearoa wines to match. From pork chicharron tacos, goats cheese ravioli, and creamy burrata—to lemon tart, tiramisu and dulce de leche filled churros to name just a few in the snacks line-up. Get your tickets here. 

The Welsh Dragon Bar Is Transforming Into A Christmas Winter Wonderland

Image credit: Welsh Dragon Bar, Wellington | Instagram 

Cosy up by the roaring fire and spend the night at the Welsh Dragon turned Christmas Winter Wonderland on Sunday. With an epic Christmas feast featuring the essential Welsh leek and potato soup alongside roast turkey and ham, all the roast veg, as well as pigs in blankets and Yorkie puds to stuff your faces into—you won’t be leaving hungry. They’ve also got a dessert trio (trifle, crumble and chocolate cake anyone?), mulled wine, Christmas carols, and even a visit from Santa himself—it’s no wonder they’ve already sold out. Try your luck on the waiting list here.  

Lillies Turns One With A Pōneke Party 

Image credit: Lillies | Instagram 

Ōtautahi’s gem of a place Lillies is turning one this Sunday and celebrating with Pōneke’s very own Tommy Tomato pizzas (from Tommy Millions days) and Fruit Cru ciders, who are travelling down to Ōtautahi Christchurch to party it up at their winery, cidery and wood-fired pizza slingin' restaurant. With live DJ beats and tasty eats, book your seat at their bday party online. 

Ockhee Are Closing Their Doors After Five Years Of Sexy Seoul Food and Tasty Beats

Image credit: Ockhee | Vicki Young

Our hearts are breaking—Ockhee are closing their doors with the last day of trading on Saturday 28th June. Ockhee set such a vibe—I’ll never forget those hand-rolled rice balls with love, shatteringly crispy fried chicken, refreshing japchae and flame-grilled cheese bubbling over bul bo ssam. Get there for one last happy food dance and send them off with a shot of soju—the Ockhee hospitality way. Here’s to five delicious years of wholesome Korean food and hospitality from Paul, Lisa and the team. 

Head To Nanam For High Tea, Filipino-Style

Image credit: Nanam | Supplied

Nanam are kicking on with their 10th birthday celebrations and after a sell-out high tea last week, they’re hosting another Filipino-flavour forward high tea with choir and traditional dance performances this Saturday 28th June. Taste flavours of Filipino with ube macaron, calamansi meringue tarts and sikwate—a Filipino hot chocolate complete with sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves. 

All-Star Māori Chefs Are Cooking Up A Storm To Celebrate Puanga Matariki 

Image credit: Tohunga Tumau | Lemongrass Productions (Supplied)

Head to the Duke of Marlborough in Northland this weekend for an unforgettable six-course modern Māori dinner matched with Northland and Māori-owned wines, plus canapés and live music. Featuring Hāngī master Rewi Spraggon, Duke of Marlborough Hotel Head Chef Tama Salive, Head Chef Liam Tito-Salive, NZ Masterchef winners Karena and Kasey Bird, Rex Morgan and celebrity chef Joe McLeod. 

Head To The North Shore For Margaritas, Tacos And A Mariachi Band 

Image credit: Stone Oven | Emily Raftery Photography (Instagram)

Transport yourself to Mexico at Spirit of Devonport and Stone Oven’s Margarita and Mariachi Concert and Dinner this Saturday. Enjoy dishes like wild goat birria tacos, elotes (grilled corn) and house-made churros with a fresh lime margarita in hand, serenaded by the Auckland Mariachi Band. Get your tickets here.

Celebrate Pride With Esther’s Pride Par-Tea 

Image credit: Esther Restaurant | Supplied

Celebrate World Pride Day with a side of glitter and ganache at Esther’s special pride edition High Tea. Dress up and join the glitz and glam as Miss Geena presents the dessert trolley with all the signature Esther chocolate swans (this time, in a raspberry pink edition). But wait, they’re also rolling the Scapegrace gin trolley for all your pride cocktail needs. $2 from every Par-tea ticket and pride cocktail sold on the day will be going to Rainbow New Zealand Charitable Trust—don your sparkliest outfits and raise a glass for pride this weekend. 

Ube Lovers, Assemble For the Ube Fiesta 

Image credit: Pinoy Cravings | Supplied

If you love all things ube, head to the Ube Fiesta this Saturday at St. Johns. Hosted by Chow Luck Club Foodie Market and Filipino Market NZ, there will be ube-ified treats like halo halo with ube ice cream, ube pastries, ube egg tarts and ube bubble tea to name a few on the ube must-eats list. Entry is free, head there early and choose from the full list of ube offerings here.  

This Wairarapa Festival Of Christmas Is Full of Snow, Lights and Mulled Wine

Image credit: Mao and Co | Birdie Content Studio (Supplied)

Head over to the hills of the Wairarapa for their annual mid-winter Christmas celebration in Greytown starting this Friday from 4pm. Get cozy next to the brazier with a mulled wine (or mulled gin) and your pick of bites from food trucks—including Chef Dale Keith’s smash burgers, Mao & Co.’s colourful dumplings, Good Times Food’s signature flatbreads and Bicycle Kitchen’s hand-crafted doughnuts. 

Celebrate Canada Day Early With Poutine And Natural Wine

Image credit: Cave à Vin | Vicki Young

Amy Farnsworth from Amoise Wines and Cave à Vin are celebrating Canada Day this Saturday with an Amoise Wine takeover and Canadian classics including all the cheese curd pulls on gravy-laden poutine and lobster mac and cheese. If you haven’t been to the North Shore for a spot of delicious wine, charcuterie and skillet cookies—now’s the time. With limited bookings left, DM to book your table stat. 

Dine In *Very* Good Company With Naumi Hotel Wellington's 7 Paintings

Image credit: 7 Paintings | supplied

Have your art and eat it too with 7 Paintings - The Art Of Dining. Inspired by some of the most iconic artists of all time—Michelangelo, Andy Warhol, Banksy, Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Dali and Van Gogh—you'll devour art history one bite at a time as you're guided through a 7-course 2.5 hour dinner like no other. The creative culinary feast is launching at Naumi Hotels in Wellington on Friday 27 June and will run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening until further notice. Sound like a bit of you? Head here to book with a crisp $159 (or $95 for kids). 

A Neolithic Feast 10,000 Years In The Making Is Finally Here

Image credit: Graze Wine Bar | Supplied

As part of the annual mid-winter multi-arts festival Lōemis, a Neolithic-inspired feast is coming to Te-Whanganui-a-Tara this Tuesday 17th June. Reimagined by Chef Max Gordy from Graze Wine Bar, guests will be treated to a mid-winter feast 10,000 years in the making with six courses featuring barbecued bull kelp-wrapped fish and buckwheat galette with roasted honey and apple. Come hungry.

Osteria Uno Are Serving Up Tiramisu With Lashings Of Truffle 

Image credit: Osteria Uno | Instagram

It’s officially truffle season, and Osteria Uno are going all out with a truffle-laced tiramisu. The mascarpone filling is folded through with lashings of fresh New Zealand truffle and then topped with a generous pile of shaved truffle for extra (savoury-sweet) measure. Get it quick while it lasts. 

A Matariki-inspired Hāngī Is Coming To Tāmaki Makaurau This Week 

Image credit: The Grill Horizon SkyCity | Supplied

Chefs Patrick Ikinofo and Kia Kanuta are coming together this Wednesday 18th June, creating an above-ground hāngī inspired by the Matariki star cluster for Te whāngai i ngā whetū (‘feeding the stars’) at The Grill Horizon SkyCity, as part of Matariki celebrations this week. Partnering with tangata whenua of central Tāmaki, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, complete with produce gathered from their Pourewa Māra (gardens), sustainably sourced kaimoana and a celebration of indigenous producers—to create nine courses, each a culinary tribute to the nine stars. For those lucky to have got their tickets to the now sold-out event, expect Kia’s nan’s rēwena and Patrick’s pop’s hāngī smoked butter to start, tītī (muttonbird), smoked eel terrine, and kawakawa glazed duck to name a few dishes in the menu.

Chef Jono Is Bringing His Fave Māori Kai To Pici This Friday 

Image credit: Pici | Supplied

Chef Jono Thevenard from Pici is bringing his fave Māori dishes from his childhood and some Pici remixes this Friday—for a special one night only, five-course set menu to celebrate Matariki. Make room for anchovy-vibe tītī butter on rēwena, creamed pāua (casarecce-style) and a Pici-style boil up. Don’t leave without dessert, à la Pici’s signature cheesecake—with a kawakawa twist. 

Get Your Hāngī-inspired Surf and Turf at Trivet’s Buffet Lunch 

Image credit: Trivet | Instagram

Trivet are running their famous Kaimoana Feast with a Matariki edition this Friday for one weekend only. Matariki Hera Kai (‘The Feast of Matariki’) will feature all your fave kaimoana, plus a hāngī-inspired roast with all the trimmings for a celebratory buffet inspired by moana (ocean), whenua (land) and Rangi (sky). Book your table here.

Celebrate Bar Magda’s Fourth Birthday With Filipino, Māori And Pasifika Flavours 

Image credit: Bar Magda | Josh Harvey (Supplied)

Askal, a contemporary Filipino dining room and bar based in Melbourne, is coming across the ditch to create a special birthday menu with Bar Magda this weekend, celebrating Filipino cuisine alongside Māori and Pasifika cuisine. Get ready for creative dishes and cocktails paying homage to Austronesian history alongside contemporary Filipino flavours. 

Bear Gelato Are Slinging Gelato-Affogato Cups 

Image credit: Bear Gelato | Supplied

Local gelato makers Bear Gelato are adding a hot new addition to put the pep in your step, or should we say scoop—with their latest affogato series. Now you can have your gelato and your coffee too—in a pistachio, chocolate or hazelnut dipped cup, complete with cream and a moka pot pour of espresso over. You’ll find us here with a steaming cuppa joe and a scoop of Salted Sicilian Pistachio in a pistachio-dipped cup this weekend. 

Your Classic Kiwi Bikkie Just Got A Gelato Makeover

Image credit: Little Lato | Supplied

Pop the jug on, Little Lato are mixing it up (literally) with Kiwi bikkie icon Griffins, for the latest gelato flavours. There are nine new flavours out Monday—including chocolate-filled Chit Chat, dulce de leche and honey with Squiggles, Hundreds & Thousands (a.k.a. my childhood), and jammy Shrewsbury to name a nostalgic few. For those on the more adventurous side—they’ve also released a savoury flavour with Tasty cheese and Snax crackers by the scoop, too. Sign me up.

This Thai Restaurant Is Getting A Golden Glow-Up

Image credit: Golden Silk Thai Restaurant | Instagram 

After a decade of bringing O.G. Thai flavours to Tāmaki, Golden Thai Silk Restaurant are re-opening their Hobsonville restaurant this Tuesday 10th June. Having closed for a big space refresh and renovation, they’re back with a lush new fit-out and all the signature menu items. Make your way there for your long-awaited pad Thai and green curry fix—and all crispy pork belly that you can shake your chopsticks at. 

Goodbye PonsonBurger, Hello Burger Wellington

Image credit: Visa Wellington On A Plate | Supplied

While we’re quietly recovering from all the meat sweats over the last two weeks (we’re looking at you, PonsonBurger), the 2025 Visa Wellington On A Plate’s festival programme drops this Wednesday. With Miramar-based locals Double Vision Brewing as the official partner this year, get ready for the biggest culinary festival in the Southern Hemisphere coming this August. From international festival events, to exclusive festival brews from Double Vision to go with the sell-out Burger Wellington (featuring last year's Burger Wellington winners One80 Restaurant's creation, at the top of this article). We'll be booking our flights and making our burger wishlist, stat. 

Miann’s Latest Dessert Is A Wheel Of Cheese

Image credit: Miann Patisserie | Instagram

Disguised as a cheesecake, Miann’s latest dessert is full of creamy vanilla cheesecake over a liquid praline centre, encased in hazelnut praline and a caramelised white chocolate shell. Served in its own special laser-engraved Miannambert box complete with Scottish shortbread biscuits, for your next-level cheeseboard addition. 

Feast Your Eyes, Wonky Box Are Branching Out To Blooms  

Image credit: Wonky Box | Supplied

Our fighting food waste superheroes Wonky Box are saving more than imperfect fruit and veg with their latest venture—Wonky Flowers. By rescuing discarded stems that would otherwise go to waste due to appearance or weather supply issues, Wonky Flowers are fighting floral waste with a surprise delivery every week. For $52.00 you can give discarded florals a new lease on life, support local growers and reduce waste. Sign up here. 

Celebrate Philippines Independence Day with A Filipino Feast Over Fire

Image credit: Rothko Restaurant | Supplied

Melbourne’s modern Filipino restaurant Serai is coming across the ditch to collaborate with Rothko for one night only on Sunday 15th June. With over 10 dishes celebrating modern Filipino fare in ‘Fire and Feast’ style, expect dishes like tangy kingfish kilaw, humbà glazed eel, wallaby and koji leche flan with purple kūmara ice cream. Tickets include access to the Sculptureum galleries and a glass of champagne on arrival. Drooling? Book now.  

Onslow’s Venison Wellington Returns With Huntress Wines 

Image credit: Onslow | Supplied

The Venison Wellington returns to Onslow this Sunday 15th June, and what better way to enjoy their Sunday lunch than with a wine pairing from winemaker (and huntress) Jannine Rickards from Huntress Wines in the Wairarapa. Grab your seat at the table for some epic kai, wine and kōrero.

Nanam Is Teaming Up With Giapo To Celebrate, Filipino-Style 

Image credit: Nanam | Supplied

Nanam is going all out with ice-cream magic a.k.a Giapo for its 10th birthday this year. If you didn’t get to try Giapo and Nanam’s latest collaboration over the weekend, head to Giapo this Wednesday to get your hands on a Filipino leche flan remixed one last time—complete with pineapple gelato and zesty lime.

Get Your Halo Halo On At This Filipino Festival

Image credit: Pinoy Cravings NZ | Vicki Young

Celebrate Phillippine Independence Day early with one of the biggest Filipino events in Tāmaki. Expect non-stop Filipino entertainment complete with fashion catwalks and dancing, plus allll the lechon, ube queso ice cream and halo halo than you can shake your BBQ skewer at. Plus there’s the 8th Filipino-Kiwi Awards happening too, celebrating the Best Filipino Chef of the Year and Filipino eateries in Tāmaki. Entry is free so head early to party on Saturday 7th June, 10am-6pm at the Auckland Showgrounds. Check out the full line-up of events here. Mabuhay!

Relive Your Childhood Birthday Cake Dreams at Duck Island’s 10th Birthday 

Image credit: Duck Island | Supplied

From a tiny scoop shop in Hamilton to their signature pink stores (in Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland), Duck Island is celebrating 10 incredible years with nostalgic, birthday-inspired flavours by the scoop and pint across Aotearoa. With boundary-pushing flavours, expect malt crumb over chunks of chocolate cake, a Princess cake-inspired tangy rhubarb-raspberry and olive oil chiffon, as well as toasted coconut cake with spiced pineapple—all swirled in ice cream form. The first 100 through the doors will get their hands on free bday cake-inspired scoops from 12pm on Friday 6th June, at their Cuba Street (Wellington), Hamilton East and Ponsonby (Auckland) stores.

There’s A Wine Release Party on Karanaghape Road This Friday And You’re Invited

Image credit: Amoise Wines | Emily Raftery Photography (@emilyrafteryphotography)

While we’re on the celebration buzz, Hawkes Bay winemaker Amy Farnsworth from Amoise Wines will be celebrating the release of her new 2024 vintage at the newly refurbished Pici Wine Bar on K’Road. Yes to natty wines (including a couple of her new cuvées making their debut), plus eats from Pici's Chef Jono and beats by epphraim. From 5pm. Come party.

Nomu Is Giving Away 500 Free Matcha To Celebrate Its Latest Blend

Image credit: Nomu  | Supplied

Matcha is having the moment of all moments right now and one brand doing this green gold a solid is Nomu (in fact, their MO is to make sure Kiwis never have to drink a shit matcha ever again, all while keeping costs down). Hot on the heels of their twice sold-out Ceremonial Grade Matcha, which launched in November last year, comes their shiny new Premium Grade Matcha—described as 'the perfect entry matcha for the matcha-curious, with a smooth and lighter-bodied taste.' And what has us frothing even more is the news that five spots (Cafe Ditto in Auckland, Cream Eatery in Auckland, Blended Deli in Papamoa, Betsy Coffee Truck in Wellington, and Heirloom Cafe in Christchurch) will be giving away 100 free brews made with this lush new blend on Thursday 5 June to celebrate, from 8am until sold out (keep an eye on Nomu's socials for more info). Matcha 'bliged.

Truffle Season Is Coming

Image credit: voco Auckland City Centre  | Website

Truffle isn't for everyone (Drew Barrymore, for example, denounced it on Instagram just last week. They say never meet your heroes and in light of this, I kinda understand why). For those of you who DO like this pungent-but-highly-prized treat, head on over to voco Auckland City Centre from Monday 3 June and unearth a selection of lush, truffle-themed specials. Sip on what's likely to be your first-ever truffle oil washed vodka cocktail at Bar Albert ($28), or enjoy a $40 truffle-topped pizza from Mozzarella & Co (plus, you can add truffle to any dish on the menu here for just $12). And for one night only—Friday 6 June—you'll get 50% off both at the latter. See you there, fellow trufflers.

This Is The Most Beautiful Honey You'll Ever See, Period

Image credit: The Southerly  | Website

Unboxing a bottle of The Southerly's whisky-infused honey is a real-life treasure chest moment—the vessel itself looks better suited to an art gallery than a home kitchen, while the liquid inside is of even greater value. This premium, 300+ MGO Mānuka honey is laced with eight-year oak barrelled whisky that will dance ever-so-delicately across your palate, and is as exquisite served over roasted root veggies, ice cream, or ham on the bone as it is dripped into your fave cup of tea (using the matching honey wand, of course). Secure your piece of this liquid gold for $375, right here.

A Chocolate Mousse Trolley Is Doing The Rounds At Origine

Image credit: Origine  | Instagram

Working in this industry means you hear about some pretty niche things (flaming cheeseburgers, cocktails served in bongs, and volcanic sushi are just a few that spring to mind). Another example is the tableside chocolate mousse service currently doing the rounds at my fave French joint in the 09, Origine. Acclaimed chef Ben Bayly and team are doing us an absolute solid with this new offering, which sees a gigantic bowl of rich and silky mousse ladled into cut-crystal bowls, then topped with whipped cream, mandarins, shaved chocolate and more, right before your every eyes. Oh la la.

This Top Chef Is Hosting A Matariki-Themed Dinner Beneath The Stars

Image credit: Max Gordy  | Instagram

Matariki is around the corner and personally, I can't think of a better way to celebrate this very special holiday than with a feast prepared by Wellington's top chef, Max Gordy of Graze Wine Bar, at Wellington's e Ara Whānui ki te Rangi Space Place. Max will be serving up a seven-course Matariki-inspired menu within the planetarium here on Monday 9 June, complete with roaming canapés and matching Matahiwi Estate wines. “Connecting dishes to the stars in the Matariki cluster offers us a way to bring traditional and creative elements together and experience the mauri and whakaaro of what these stars mean for us,” he explains. Delicious dinner aside, guests will also get to hear from NASA intern Daniel Wrench about the mysteries of space (say what?). Tickets are $275pp with proceeds going toward helping the next generation of space obsessives on their way.

Big Transformations Are Underway For Tappo

Image credit: Pici Wine Bar  | Instagram

If you've walked past a very closed-looking Tappo recently, don't be sad. This cosy bar/wine shop, run by the same peeps as the phenomenally successful Pici and Ooh-Fa (and, in fact, right next door to the former), is actually undergoing renovations to make it into something bigger and even better, with all being revealed in an official launch party this Friday 30 May. To quote Tappo's official Insta account: “What’s next? A full refresh, inside and out. More space, more good vibes, same ethos, on a whole new level.” (Interestingly, my OCD nature meant that I went back to double-check this quote the evening before publishing, only to discover that the Tappo Insta now has a new handle—@pici.krd_winebar. Interesting!). 

One Door Closes, Another Opens For Tokki Owner/Chef, Jason Kim

Image credit: Tokki  | Instagram

Similarly, you might have seen that top Tāmaki chef, Jason Kim, has just announced the closure of his restaurant, Tokki (you know, the one in Milford with noodles as long as your arm). And while it might be the end of Tokki, it's certainly not the end of Jase—with the chef teasing that he has a new and even more incredible project in the works (but not before a well-deserved holiday). Enjoy your rest, Jase, and we can't wait to see what you have in store next. In the interim, make sure you get into Tokki one last time before their final service on Saturday 21 June.

Wolf Down 3 Kilos Of Pad Thai In The Ultimate Flex

Image credit: Khu Khu | website

If you go a bit khu khu for Pad Thai (see what I did there?), unbeknownst for you, every plate of noods you’ve smashed has led up to this moment: Khu Khu’s 3kg Pad Thai Challenge. If you can finish a sultry 3kg serve of vegan Pad Thai by yourselfi in 30 minutes, you won’t pay a cent, plus you’ll snag a free ticket to their bottomless brunch. Beware though, falter at the finish line and it’ll cost you a princely $99. So, in the words of Ru Paul, don’t fuck it up.

Dr Libby Just Announced A New Book, And This Time She's Tackling Iron Deficiency

Image credit: Dr Libby | supplied

Long-time creator of relatable content (before that was even a thing), nutritional biochemist Dr Libby has spent the last 5+ years doing a deep dive into iron deficiency which affects 31.2% of all women globally. Alongside 'Fix Iron First' ($28-45) is the release of Dr Libby's plant-based iron supplement 'Iconic Iron' ($69.95) which is said to be a gut-friendly, non-constipating way of keeping your iron levels topped up (and banishing fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, anxiety, hair loss and other symptoms of anaemia). Both book and supplement are available from drlibby.com, with Iconic Iron also available from bioblends.com.

Pistachio Papi Just Arrived In Doughnut Form

Image credit: Krispy Kreme | supplied

It’s no news that we’ve been falling—hard—for pistachio lately and when Krispy Kreme announced their next drop would be stuffed with *the* pistachio mousse itself (Pistachio Papi, who else?!) and topped with chopped hazelnuts, we went weak at the knees. The doughnut-slinging giant’s most sexy collab yet, is available in stores around the motu for the next two weeks only, with the final batch being sold on 3 June. So get in quick, or go green with envy. 

Get Caked This Saturday With A New Flavour Of Sybs

Image credit: sybs | Instagram

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been quietly amassing *quite* the collection of sybs candles. Naturally then, you’ll be stoked to know that candlemaker Cam Yates has just announced a brand new hot gay handmade candle edit—CAKED—and it’s dropping this Saturday at Ponsonby Central Markets at 10am as well as online. Catch a sneak peek of what to expect in this reel. Dare I say have your cake and sniff it too? 

Hill House Cafe Has Officially Chef’s Kissed Goodbye To Their Cinnabuns 

Image credit: Farm House Cafe | Wono Kim

Remember when Hill House Cafe and its sister venue Farm House Cafe got into an actual bunfight over the name of their iconic cinnamon buns (formerly known as cinnabuns)? Well, the buns have been officially renamed—from henceforth they’ll be known as SIN IN A BUN and I’m immediately frothing. Same incredible buns, saucy new name. I’m in love all over again.

Your Favourite Restaurant Might Be Able To Score $25,000 From AMEX

Image credit: Urban List

I hear time and time again how difficult it is to be in hospo right now so you bet I almost fell off my chair when I heard that AMEX is giving away five $25,000 grants to five eligible Auckland restaurants. The grant, which is part of the Backing International Small Restaurants programme, can be used for things like enhancing digital capabilities, buildling or refreshing dining spaces, making improvements to kitchen operations, revitalising local outreach programmes, and more. In short, it could make a massive difference to the long-term sustainability of your local, so encourage your favourite spots to throw their hat into the ring. AMEX is accepting applications from now 'til 1 July so spread the word. 

In Case You Missed It, Auckland Now Has Two Broke Boy Tacos

Image credit: Broke Boy Taco | Instagram

The only thing that could possibly be better than Broke Boy Taco? A second Broke Boy Taco, obvs. And now, it's a reality. Birkenhead just levelled up with a second store opening at 32 Birkenhead Avenue (aka the spot formerly known as Coffee Time). Get your fix of birria tacos, quesadillas, and more from 11am 'til 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am 'til 10pm Friday and Saturday. Yeeeee. 

Take A Bite Of The Gold Coast And You Might Just End Up There

Jetstar’s launching a new direct route from Dunedin and Hamilton to the Gold Coast and to whet your appetite, they’re giving away some pretty spiffy soft serve on Thursday 29 May between 12 and 6pm at Union Lawn and Base Mall. The flavours? Bushwalker’s Delight ft. mini lamington cube chunks, dark choc drizzle, blackberry compote, crumbled biscuit ‘soil’ and a sprig of rosemary; and Broadbeach ‘Gold Dust Glam’ with crushed shortbread ‘sand’, white choc pearls, a passionfruit syrup swirl and a dusting of edible gold glitter. Better still, snarf a soft serve and you might just win a trip for 4 to the Gold Coast. Hot damn.

KOL To Get New Lease Of Life Under New Ownership

Image credit: Lewis Hartley | Supplied

So you remember how KOL—the Ponsonby spot from hospo heavyweights Sid and Chand Sahrawat —was set to become an incubator space for new restaurants? Well, it looks like that idea's now been given the flick, but for good reason: the couple will now be passing the reins (and by that, I mean KOL in its entirety, including the current staff and menu) over to another successful foodie duo, Sapan and Ruchi Parikh. The Sahrawats are huge fans of the pair's two existing restaurants, Red Fort in Greenhithe and Spice Rack in Albany (in fact, Sid says they serve some of the best Indian food in New Zealand!), so such a changing-of-the-guard seems kinda kismet.

The new era of KOL will begin on Wednesday 21 May, with Sid and Chand on hand to mentor the Parikhs over the coming months. Come expecting the same dishes and atmosphere you know and love, with some exciting new specialties thrown into the mix.

Score A Free Strawberry Matcha This Saturday

Image credit: Thea Matcha | Instagram

If you're a matcha girlie, you already know that a free strawberry matcha is worth its weight in gold (it sure costs that much normally). This Saturday, be at SO Fitness from 12.30pm and you'll snag a Thea starwberry matcha and a lil' somethin' from So Fitness. And in case you're wondering, there's no pilates involved—you already did the mahi this week, it's time for the treats. Better still, one person will also score a pilates x matcha bundle valued at over $400. LFG. Details here.

Host The Prettiest Pink Ribbon Brekky With One Of These Gorgeous Treat Boxes 

Image credit: Knead on Benson  | Instagram

Supporting a good cause is a no-brainer, especially when there's food involved. Enter Knead on Benson, the cafe with a talent for creating some of Auckland's most exquisite treats, who've pulled together the most gorgeous box of goodies for those wishing to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast on Thursday 22 May (part of the annual fundraising effort for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ). 

These beauties are stacked with enough eats for six people, including on-point pink iced buns, chocolate cookie sandwiches, berry and jam custard tarts, beetroot tarts, salmon and cucumber sammies, and proscuitto, egg, and pickled onion mini croissants. Plus, $20 from the cost of each box will go directly to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Available for pre-order until Sunday 18 May via kneadonbenson.co.nz. $200 per box.

The World's Biggest Whisky Club Has Launched In NZ, With One Hella Cool Prize Up For Grabs

Image credit: The Whisky Club  | Website

Fan of the dram? Then listen up. The world's largest whisky community—The Whisky Club, which has 37,000+ members and counting—has launched in New Zealand, and not only that, they're offering one new member a trip for two to the home of whisky itself, Scotland, for a booze-fuelled vacation worth almost $20,000. And even if you don't win that hella cool prize, membership to the club is itself a win, 'cos you'll receive an exclusive whisky, created by the world's best distilleries (think Glenmorangie, Glendronach, Benriach, Balvenie and Bushmills), each and every month. 

If this sounds like a bit of you, Auckland bars Rocketman and Panacea will be hosting parties to celebrate the club's launch on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 May. Slàinte!

Tales Of Bumping Into An Old Friend (If Cheesecake Counts As A Friend?)

Image credit: Gu  | Website

Not so long ago, I parted ways with a collection of glass ramekins I'd been holding onto for well over a decade, and almost as many moves between houses. These had actually come from a range of premium, single-serve cheesecakes by British brand Gu, which were sold for a short but sweet season in Kiwi supermarkets. 

So imagine my surprise this week when, roaming the refrigerator aisle at my local Woolies, I stumbled across these desserts once again. Yes, after what must be about a 15-year hiatus, these exquisite cheesecakes have returned (to Woolworths at least) in four delicious-as-ever flavours—Salted Caramel, Double Chocolate & Vanilla, Spanish Lemon, and New York Cheesecake. You can bet I bought some (and by default, have re-started my ramekin collection). $10.95 for a two-pack.

Domino's Could Be Paying A Month-Sized Slice Of Your Mortgage Or Rent

Image credit: Domino's  | Supplied

Drop everything—Domino's is currently offering one lucky customer a month-long holiday from their mortgage or rent, as part of their Slice of Relief Competition. In keeping with the nature of the comp (read: lending a helping hand in this cost-of-living nightmare we all find ourselves in), all you have to do is order one of their new and deliciously cheap $5.99 Value Range pizzas—BBQ Cheese & Beef, BBQ Hot Dog, or Ham & Cheese—then snap and upload a pic of you eating it, to their website. Too easy! Entries close Monday 19 May. May the odds be ever in your favour.

Little & Friday: A Personal Tribute To One Of Auckland's Most Iconic Cafes

Image credit: Litttle & Friday  | Instagram

Many years ago, at my first food writing job, my boss took me with her to cover a new cafe that had opened on the Shore. I still remember the cabinet, groaning with OTT treats, the mismatched crockery (unheard of at the time) and specifically, a lemon and coconut cake that is still to this day, one of the best cakes I've ever eaten. 

That spot was the original Little & Friday in Belmont (now home to Daily Bread)—a brand that would go on to spawn a number of other successful cafes, several cookbooks, and a die-hard fan base (myself included. I even ordered one of their chocolate cakes for my daughter's milestone first birthday). 

So it's with a great deal of sadness—but also, many good memories—that I must tell you, Little & Friday has officially shut the doors to its last remaining store in Ponsonby. Thanks to owner Kim Evans and her talented team for bringing us some of Auckland's most iconic treats for close to 20 years. May you enjoy having no more early morning starts!

Dig Into Flaming Fondue Burgers, Cheeseburger Bao And More With PonsonBurger

Image credit: PonsonBurger | Babiche Martens

I'm gonna go out on a real limb here and say that burgers are one of an Urban Lister's favourite foods... In which case, the upcoming PonsonBurger festival is an absolutely essential addition to your calendar.

This two-week annual event, running from Monday 26 May-Sunday 8 June, will see more than 30 bars and eateries from around Ponsonby putting their very best burger creations on show. Amongst this year's entries are a flaming fondue burger from Longroom (pictured), featuring a cheese-topped bun that's literally on fire; as well as a cheese-stuffed, cornflake-crusted fried chicken burger from Hoppers Garden Bar, a gooey cheeseburger bao from The Blue Breeze Inn, and a decadent dessert burger from Miann featuring chocolate mousse patties, white chocolate cheese, AND chocolate shell buns. Oof.

SkyCity Chefs Serving Up A Slice Of Nostalgia

Image credit: SkyCity | Supplied

SkyCity's chefs are taking a walk down memory lane over the coming months with heart-warming dishes inspired by their collective childhoods (but not without a little refinement, of course). 

As well as paying tribute to their pre-chef days, each dish in A Chef's Story will also honour the specific flavours and culinary identity of the restaurant from which it comes. Case in point: Megan Cruickshank, head chef at The Fed, has whipped up the king of all meatloaves, served with cranberry relish, sauteed greens, wholegrain mustard and rich dripping gravy aka the ultimate diner dinner. Meanwhile, Cassia's Ketan Joshi has leant into memories of crunchy chicken with a black sesame, double chilli and cashew-laced chook number, while Jack Stott of Depot has cooked up a next level lamb neck roast (pictured above) with allll the trimmings including creamed cavolo nero, celeriac purée, mint jelly, red wine jus and the pièce de résistance, a Yorkshire pud. Get in my rumbling belly.

A Shawarma Taco Party Is Coming To Auckland Later This Month

Okay so deets on this one were a little scant at the time of writing BUT apparently the legends at The Lebanese Grocer are throwing a Shawarma Taco Party on Sunday 25 May, with some help from their friends at Hands Down. 

If you're a little slow to the *metaphorical* TLG party, let this serve as your official introduction. Run by chef Elie Assaf, this mouthwatering spot on Auckland's Pitt Street has gathered a cult following thanks to its incredible Lebanese food offering (most notably, its shawarma. However I can also attest to the fact that their catered platters are one of the most ridiculously beautiful things you'll ever see/eat). 

Meanwhile, Hands Down is a vegan, gluten-free and 100% natural corn tortilla brand from Napier. Needless to say, I can't wait to see this collab in its final form. Keep an eye on The Lebanese Grocer's official Instagram for updates.

Take Your Palate Off-Grid With The Return Of The Monteith's Wild Food Challenge

Image credit: Monteith's Wild Food Challenge | Supplied

It's time to let your tastebuds walk on the wild side, with the return of the Monteith's Wild Food Challenge. Back after a decade, this event will see restaurants, bars and cafes from across the country experimenting with wild, foraged and downright adventurous ingredients throughout May to create one-of-a-kind dishes in the hopes of impressing three expert judges—top chef, Ben Bayly, founder of The Pioneer Pie Co, Emily Lucas, and spearfisherman/underwater cameraman, Sam Wild (sidenote, how apt is that surname?). To complete the challenge, all dishes must also be paired with a Monteith's brew. 

Check out the full list of participating venues (there's more than 100), here.

One Black Forest Hot Choccy, Please And Thank You

Image credit: Cocoa Wilds | Instagram

The best way to combat a cold autumn day is with your mitts wrapped around Cocoa Wilds' black forest-flavoured hot chocolate. Known for their take on the popular toasted meringue-rimmed hot choccies made famous by cafes in London and New York, this O'Connell Street spot has bought back this dreamy number, which was on the menu last winter, due to popular demand. 

This must-sip brew features a decadent chocolate and rasberry base topped with a mini mountain of chocolate whipped cream, dark chocolate flakes, and a swirl of ruby red cherry sauce for good measure (don't forget the meringue rim). Come expecting peak deliciousness—and queues.

Kiwi Chardy Takes Top Prize At Prestigious London Wine Awards

Image credit: Isabel Estate | Supplied

No doubt about it, whether it's fighting things out on the rugby field, creating the best damn film trilogies of all time, chewing up the water in a kayak—or in this case, making wine—us Kiwis punch well above our weight on the international stage. 

Yes, in news absolutely worth raising a glass for, Marlborough's Isabel Estate has recently taken out the title of Wine of the Year at the prestigious London Wine Competition, beating 50 other countries in the process. The vino in question? Their Wild Barrique Chardonnay, a 2022 vintage described as “a finely poised wine of power, complexity and texture brimming with notes of brioche, citrus melon, fig and vanilla notes and a sublime finish." Incredible work, team.

Go Crayfish Crazy At Eight Restaurant

Image credit: Eight Restaurant | Supplied

Love a Sunday roast but craving something fresh? Eight Restaurant at Cordis is doing the Lord’s work on the Sabbath, with their newly launched Crayfish Nights—running every Sunday (skipping Mother’s Day) while stocks last. 

For $129, enjoy half a premium New Zealand crayfish alongside an interactive dining experience that’s already impressed connoisseurs throughout the isthmus. And with little foodies 12 and under eating half price, and under-fours dining free, why not upgrade the dining room table to something a little more fancy?

Drop Everything, A Crêpe Window Is Coming To Auckland CBD

Image credit: Mozzarella & Co | supplied

Tired of your morning coffee and pastry ritual? How about a couple of piping hot crêpes to sate your appetite, instead? Enter Mozzarella & Co (yes, the same Mozzarella & Co I mentioned last week that's currently slinging chocolate pasta, prepared on a chocolate wheel), who are opening a dedicated crêpe window at their central Auckland location this Friday (2 May). This new spot will be dishing up sheets of sweet crêpey goodness to-order from 7-10:30am for $9-12 a pop with gluten-free and savoury toppings coming soon... 

Plus, if you're one of the first 20 customers on opening day, you'll get this treat entirely for free—with 50% off all other orders throughout the morning. Now that's what I call a sweet deal.

This Iconic Bakery Is Selling 'Cat' Pies For Your Dog (Disclaimer: Not Real Cat)

Image credit: Muzza's Pies / Supplied

Just when you thought Muzza's Pies—the long-standing Mount Albert Bakery with a knack for some of the city's tastiest pastries—couldn't possibly get any more iconic, they go and drop a faux cat pie for dogs into the mix. I repeat, this is not real cat (because that would be, you know, animal cruelty), but a pooch-friendly mix of rabbit and fish that the team has whipped up after noticing a few too many customers sneaking pieces of regular pie to their four-legged friends. 

10% of the purchase price of these Dog Pies goes to Chained Dog Rehabilitaiton & Rehoming (a local charity dedicated to caring for the less fortunate canines amongst us) but best of all, they're served from a minature replica of the bakery, located right outside its front door (cute!). 

I've seen a few heated comments about this one doing the rounds over the last week but honestly, I'm with Muzza's owner John Williams, who says "the idea of replicating cat flavours in a pie for dogs gave us a good laugh—we just had to do it!”

Wellington’s Iconic Charley Noble Sets Up At SO/ Auckland

Image credit: SO/ Auckland / Supplied

No need to scour for a grabaseat flight to Wellington—the city’s oh-so-loved restaurant is making its way to Auckland this weekend. For the first time ever, no less. The Charley Noble x SO/ Auckland Takeover is gearing up for three days of dinner services with a full—we repeat, full—menu of Charley Noble’s signature wood-fired fare. Their staple pigs tail salad, prawn bisque with brandy cream, cauliflower steaks, actual steaks and oh so many more will be yours to choose from in SO/ Auckland’s sky-high restaurant, Harbour Society. But really, you had us at mānuka wood-fire oven.

Fill A Bottle With Wine Straight From The Barrel At The Hunting Lodge's Harvest Market Day

Image credit: The Hunting Lodge / Facebook

Autumn is the season for crunching through leaves, sipping on pumpkin spice lattes—and filling up BYO bottles with red wine at The Hunting Lodge. Well for a few hours it is anyway, thanks to this West Auckland winery's Harvest Market Day on Sunday 4 May (10am-2pm). Bring along a clean, 750ml bottle and for just $18, you'll be able to fill it with Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay Malbec, straight from the barrel. 

And that's not all—you'll also be able to snap up handmade pasta, coffee, freshly baked treats, crafts, and other local goodies from a carefully curated selection of market stalls, set against a gorgeous, autumn-washed backdrop. Free entry.

Peter Gordon Is Taking Over Floriditas For Two Nights Only

Image credit: Peter Gordon / Instagram

The one-and-only, needs-no-introduction Peter Gordon (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa / Ngāi Tahu / Clan Gordon) is taking over the kitchen at Wellington institution Floriditas for two nights this May, showcasing the skills he has gathered from more than 40 years in the industry both here and abroad. 

Part of this spot's aptly-titled Legends Series (also featuring Nick Huffman and Martin Bosley), you'll be treated to five courses of Peter's famous fusion-style cusine on either Friday 23 or Saturday 24 May, for just $150pp (pretty reasonable really, given you'll be eating food prepared by Kiwi culinary royalty). 

Spaces for this one are sure to fill up quick, so book now or face a serious case of foodie FOMO.

Ahi Is Dishing Up The Autumn Dessert Of My Your Dreams

Image credit: Ahi / Instagram

If, like me, the idea of feijoas being left to rot on the ground (or any other waste of this incredible fruit) is an absolute travesty, listen up. Ahi is putting this tangy treat where it righfully belongs (read: front and centre) with their latest seasonal dessert—which brings together feijoa wine, salted black beech honey mousse, Patumahoe herbs, sherbet, and the fruit itself into the glorious green-hued dish you see above. 

And better yet, you can pair it with locally made feijoa liqueur from Purangi Estate, a boutique winery in the Coromandel known for its organic, fruit-forward tipples. Think of it like a feijoa double date, where you're the very welcome third wheel.

Snap Up This Small-Batch Berry Jam Collab

Image credit: Ruby Hamilton

I like jam. I also like candles. So of course I'm coveting this new small-batch jam from The Modern Preserver, inspired by Ashley & Co's new berry-scented Bonberry range (including, you guessed it, a candle). The jam is the latter's way of celebrating Bonberry's additon to their family of fragrances (it was previously a limited release) and you can scoop it up for a short but sweet season from their official website. 

The Modern Preserver (real name, Kylee Newton, a cookbook author / teacher / recipe developer and more) has created this soft-set, low-sugar number with beautifully ripe boysenberries, mellow strawberries, sweet lychee, and a subtle hint of rosewater that is, if it's possible, even more delicious than the Bonberry scent itself. Slap it on some toasted sourdough with a nugget of butter, and you have yourself an actual slice of heaven.

That said, I'm thinking a bundle of these Bonberry goodies would make the perfect Mother's Day gift (well, for this mother anyway).

Ponsonby Road Bistro To Say Adieu After Almost Two Decades

Image credit: Ponsonby Road Bistro / Instagram

And finally, as much as I'd love this corner of the internet to be rainbows, unicorns, and nothing else, sometimes a little thing called reality comes knocking. Case in point: award-winning restaurant, Ponsonby Road Bistro, has announced it's shutting its doors after 18 incredible years. The owners of this much-loved local with consistently top-tier fare (including an extremely memorable Valrhona chocolate pot), Blair and Gina Russell, cite the need for rest and new adventures as their reason for closing; and with the last five years still very much hanging in the collective hospo psyche, who can blame them.

In an official Instagram post, they said: “To all of our wonderful customers and the incredible staff who’ve brought their own magic to our restaurant, thank you. It’s been an unforgettable ride.” Their final dinner service will be this Saturday, 3rd May, up until which time they will be honouring any outstanding gift vouchers. 

Farewell, PRB, and thanks for all of the many wonderful memories (especially that choc pot).

PSA: DoorDash Just Dropped A New Feature That Pays You To Dine Out

Just when we thought we couldn’t love DoorDash more, they’ve launched Going Out—a genius new in-app feature (iOS only) that rewards you for, well, going out. Starting in Auckland (before hitting the rest of NZ), you can now score up to $25 off when you dine in at selected local spots. Simply claim a promo in the app, check in at the restaurant, and boom—delicious savings.T&Cs apply. The more you go, the more perks you unlock. Great food, better prices, and extra love for your fave local eateries? We’re in

A Limited Edition Sunday Roast Series Is Coming To College Hill, Complete With Yorkshire Pud

Image credit: The Wine Room | Jono Parker

Paying tribute to Chef Ryan Moore's English heritage is The Wine Room's latest development: A six-week long lunch series inspired by the age-old British tradition of a hearty Sunday roast. The Proper Sunday Roast, which will take place at 2pm every Sunday from 4 May through to 8 June, is a three-course affair begun with canapés before moving into nostalgic dishes like poultry and meat cuts, roast potatoes, green veges and Yorkshire puddings topped with gravy, finished off with pudding and a glass of Sauternes or Vintage Port. Snag a seat for $175 per person. 

A Call To Arms Paws For The Country's Longest-Running Cat Cafe

Image credit: Purrs & Beans / Instagram

As a huge fan of Purrs & Beans aka the country's longest-running cat cafe, I want to see this spot around for many years to come. 100% independently run by two of the loveliest humans/fur parents you'll ever meet, Faith-Ashleigh and Shane (who, btw, run this venture in conjunction with their day jobs and don't draw a wage from it!), this Birkenhead spot sets the standard for cat cafes here in NZ with its attention to welfare and focus on homing rescues. It doesn't hurt they make a mean coffee, too, and stock treats from local businesses like The Vegan Treatory, which you can sip and snack while playing with their furry family.

As you can imagine, running a cat cafe ain't a cheap exercise (there's rent, vet bills, staff wages and more to pay), and combined with a 40% drop in patronage last year, these guys could do with a helping paw. That's where you and I come in—check out their PledgeMe campaign and snap up rewards like coffees, multi-trip passes to the cafe and cute cat merch from now 'til the end of April to show your support. 

AF Puts New Zealand On World Stage At Coachella

Image credit: AF / Instagram

A massive round of applause to the only alcohol-free brand I'd ever choose over a real drink, AF—who has just spent back-to-back weekends serving the crowds at Coachella. This locally made line-up of cocktails and sparkling wine, which is already available at more than 4000 stores across the US and has been publicly endorsed by celebs like the Kardashians, was the only Kiwi zero-booze brand at the famous festival, reaching more than 250,000 revellers across two weekends. Who knows, maybe even Lady Gaga and Post Malone—just two of the big names that performed this year, and who have both declared a dwindling interest in alcohol—might have even been amongst those avid sippers.

Master The Art Of Patisserie With This Fab New Cookbook

Image credit: @amberjaynebain for Pâtisserie Made Simple, via Sugar Flour / Instagram

Maxine Scheckter is a bonafide pastry queen: not only does she run her own patisserie school (Sugar Flour), she was named one of the country's 50 most inspiring and influential women in food and drink for 2025. And now this talented Wellingtonian has released her very own cookbook, the beautiful Pâtisserie Made Simple. Consider this your guide to creating drop-dead gorgeous treats (80 petits gateaux, all made in one simple tin, to be precise); with step-by-step photographs to help you every step of the way.

You'll learn how to temper chocolate, make chocolate decorations, and a tonne of other fancy techniques you may've never thought yourself capable of (FYI Maxine got a bunch of her non-baking friends to test the recipes, all to great success). “It's meant to be a stepping stone between a normal baking book and a professional baking book,” she explains. “There's nothing really that's kind of in between those two levels and so I'm hoping that this will be that for all of you.” And it seems Maxine's cookbook has already earned one famous fan—Kiwi cheffing royalty and The Great Kiwi Bake Off judge, Peter Gordon, who had only the best things to say about it in a recent Instagram post. Pâtisserie Made Simple is available everywhere good cookbooks are sold.

Sad News: Nanny's Eatery Is Closing

Image credit: Nanny's Eatery / Instagram

It seems like only yesterday I was smashing back supersized jalapeño poppers and boozy ginger beer at a new opening for Nanny's Eatery, a vibrant spot on Kingsland's main strip with a menu inspired by co-owner and chef JP's Jamaican upbringing. In actuality, that was four years ago, which is almost as surprising to me as the news that this restaurant will soon be shutting its doors (albeit for the ultimate good cause—so JP and his wife, Ange, can spend more time together as a family). The exact date for this is yet to be confirmed, meaning that you still have a chance to pop in and treat yourself to some of their colourful cocktails, firey fare, and warm Caribbean hospitality. All the best, guys!

Keep The Autumn Rain At Bay With This Food-Covered Brolly From Blunt

Image credit: Studio Bon / Instagram

When it's raining cats and dogs, your best defence is food. Specifically, this food-covered umbrella from Blunt, designed by Kiwi artist Bonnie Brown who describes it as "a love letter to fresh fruit, farmers' markets, and life's little joys." Featuring fun, childlike illustrations of all your favourite produce on a pretty peach background, coupled with Blunt's award-winning weatherproof design, this limited-edition brolly is sure to put a pep in your step and a smile on your dial the next time you have to brave the rain. It's giving The Hungry Caterpillar meets Richard Scarry, and I'm not mad about it. Available in both classic (regular) and Metro (small) options.

You Can Now Eat Chocolate Pasta, Prepared On A Chocolate Wheel

Image credit: voco Auckland City Centre / Instagram

How do you feel about chocolate pasta? I'm not entirely sure myself, but I do know there's only one way to find out, and that's by ordering a bowl of this controversial dish from Mozzarella & Co, located inside the voco Auckland City Centre hotel. Now before you start crying blasphemy or worse, accusing any Nonnas of rolling in their graves, listen up: These strands of handcrafted pasta are not only made with chocolate, they're also swished around a giant wheel of chocolate in the same way certain pasta dishes are with cheese, then garnished with white chocolate crumbs. The end result is described as rich, velvety, and delicious... and I might just be here for it. Available until the end of April.

Check Out This Downtown Wine Shop For All Your Vino Needs

Image credit: Queens Wineshop / Supplied

Chances are you're probably already well-acquainted with Queens Rooftop aka the beautiful, sky-high bar located atop the Deloitte building in downtown Auckland, but have you ever stopped to check out its dedicated wine shop on the way up? Queens Wineshop is a treasure trove of wines and spirits carefully sourced for their provenance, story, and soul which the staff, led by the knowledgeable John Robertson, are more than happy to have a yarn about (they might even offer you a drop of something, if you're lucky).

Of course, such a considered edit means there's something for all palates (even the ones that don't know what they want!), and it's one that's continuously being added to; with several notable releases expected in the coming months including a long-awaited drop from Julien Labet, whose bottles have been on the shop’s wish list since day one.

Casa De Tequila Is Calling Your Name

Image credit: Rooftop at QT x Herradura Tequila | supplied

The nights are turning colder and that calls for a quick retreat to a cosy corner of cactus country (complete with more margaritas than you can tipsily shake a wedge of lime at). Enter: Casa de Tequila, where Herradura Tequila has sashayed into Rooftop at QT to bring you bold, unexpected and dangerously smooth tipples that'll warm the cockles of any heart. There are six limited-edition margs to choose from, all sitting pretty at a $23/24 pricepoint, but we can't pass up the margarita tasting flight where you'll get to taste three different margs for just $32. As for kai? The Rooftop at QT crew has whipped up a Taco Cantina just for the occasion. Available from 4 April to 12 May. 

Kiwi Restaurant Named One Of Top Three In The World

Image credit: Amisfield / Instagram

Hill House Cafe Is In An Actual Bunfight 

Image credit: Farm House Cafe | Wono Kim

When Hill House posted an image of its iconic cinnabun with the words "Farewell To A Bun Icon," my heart skipped a beat. But, as it turns out, this was not the beginning of the end of the giant, dreamy cinnamon buns but rather a call to crowdsource a new name. Yep, Hill House Cafe and its sister venue Farm House Cafe are in an actual bunfight with an undisclosed foe (but, like, connect the dots) over the name of their cinnamon buns. The silver lining? If the team picks your suggestion you might just win a lifetime supply of buns. We've already spied a few that we think are worthy, like Cinnabangers and Buns Of Cin by @dr.britt.bonner and CinnaRewa by @larissadeanacarlson. Add yours here. 

I'll Have The Thunderdonk, Thanks

Image credit: Scapegrace | website

Scapegrace has come out swinging with a flavoured whisky you'll want in a glass near you, stat. Going by the name of Thunderdonk (we can't stop saying it), the 33% small batch comes in two edits both retailing at $59.99 for 700mL. First, a spiced maple that we'll be sipping on all winter. The toasted oak, a hit of cinnamon and deep caramelised maple blend is a cosy blanket in sip form. And then there's her sister, a salted caramel underpinned with soft vanilla notes which we'll be pouring ourselves when we feel like a little treat. Winter may be coming but so is Thunderdonk. 

Chase Your Boxing Class With An Ice Cream

Image credit: Grande Premium Ice Cream | supplied

Look, you could chug a protein shake after your boxing class, but chowing down on a pint of protein ice cream sounds a lot more fun. Grande Premium Ice Cream is packed with a whopping 28g of protein per tub and you can get your mitts on it at New World Supermarkets and a smattering of independent retailers around the motu. It's currently available in vanilla and chocolate with another secret flavour set to launch in the coming months. The best part? Unlike protein shakes which can taste grainy, Grande is as smooth as they come and as creamy as regular ice cream, without the unhinged sugar hit. Top tip: Chuck a couple of scoops of chocolate into the microwave for a DIY moosie that'll take you straight back to '90s lunch orders. 

Have Your Toast And Wear It Too 

Image credit: Vogel's | supplied

If we had a dollar for every time one of our expat friends complained about not being able to get their mitts on a loaf of Vogel's, we'd be very rich indeed. And perhaps Vogel's has come up with a solution. On Wednesday 9 April, a BreadyWear pop-up will materialise at Auckland Airport and it's exactly what it sounds like. Designed by up-and-coming fashion designer, Vicki Foggo, the BreadyWear Collection is a pair of pieces designed to allow travellers to flaunt whole loaves of Vogel's and never again be parted from their fave daily loaf. 

The Breaded Jacket holds 32 slices of Vogel's and the Neckloaf is a travel pillow that doubles as a two-loaf stash. They might just be the best thing since sliced bread (don't pretend you didn't see that coming). 

Sip On Sunshine With A Glass Of GN

Image credit: Invivo Wines | supplied

Graham Norton is a purveyor of top-tier giggles and top-tier tipples and last month the Irish comedian himself made a pitstop at Invivo Wines to personally usher the 12th vintage of the Graham Norton Sauvignon Blanc into existence. The Marlborough winery has been collabing with Norton for over a decade now and, last year, casually cranked out their 20 millionth bottle of GN. But back to the 12th vintage—Norton's dubbed it sunshine in a glass and we can personally attest to the description. So if that sounds exactly like what's needed to keep the colder weather at arm's length (it does), you might just like to hop onto Invivo's website and order yourself a bottle or six. 

Matcha Tasting Is Coming To Folds Patisserie

Image credit: Folds Patisserie x Thea Matcha | Alice Rich

Matchaholics, assemble. From 12-20 April, Folds Patisserie will be hosting an exquisite Matcha Tasting, in collaboration with Thea where you’ll nibble on a jasmine and peach cake, a savoury mushroom and hazelnut rice ball and a mochi-stuffed sesame choux paired with three of Thea's highest grade matchas—a superior inorganic from Mie, a superior organic from Kyoto and a superior inorganic from Kyoto. Priced at $30 per person, no bookings necessary. Top tip: Enjoy your treat first then chase with a shot of matcha. 

Cāntīng's Yum Cha Bottomless Brunch Starts This Sunday

Image credit: Cāntīng | Michael White

And it's running every Sunday from 11am-3pm throughout April. For just $68 per person you'll score two hours of bottomless prosecco, bellinis, spicy lychee margs (which we can personally attest to), plus Cāntīng's own yuzu lager. As for the kai, you'll start with dim sum dumplings or a tiger prawn toast followed by your choice of main—steamed market fish, Yusheng king salmon salad, Cantonese crispy pork bao buns or BBQ duck pancakes. And, like, let's be real, you won't want to leave without their mouthwatering baijiu caramel-soaked deep-fried ice cream (and, yes, we can attest to that too). 

Sangria Szn May Have Ended But That Only Means Its Time To Hoard The Zangria 

Image credit: Zangria | supplied

No, that's not a typo. Zangria is a low alcohol fruit wine-inspired by the classic sangria we all know and love (and occasionally get carried away with). Designed to be summer incarnate from the minute you spy the bottle to the very last sip, the latest in the Zangria range—Wildberry & Citrus Fizz (from $22.99)—is a crisp lil' number, bursting with berries, homegrown pinot noir rosé and a zesty pop of citrus bottled like champagne, just to make sure you feel fancy. She joins the Zangria canned O.G.s rosé, watermelon and berries; and pineapple, mango and NZ wine (from $24.99). 

Auckland Just Scored Its First Ever Gelato Easter Egg 

Image credit: Bear Gelato | supplied

Bear Gelato and Ao Cacao have joined forces to create a limited-edition gelato Easter egg weighing over half a kilo (600 grams, to be exact). Handmade to order—with pre-orders open from now 'til 13 April—the next level Easter treat takes the form of a single-origin dark chocolate shell stuffed full of bear Gelato's award-winning Manuka honeycomb gelato with a creamy chocolate ganache 'yolk.' Secure the goods by popping onto their website with $55 then treat you and four friends or, like just you. 

Slap Your Mug On A Marshmallow Egg This Easter

Image credit: NZ Post | supplied

Just when we thought we were across the best Easter treats of the season, customisable eggs landed in our inbox and they're too good not to share—literally. Thanks to NZ Post you can cover a half-dozen box of marshmallow eggs with your face and ship it to a loved one anywhere in the country. Each box costs $12, including courier costs. Orders go live on the NZ Post website on Thursday 3 April at 1pm and there are only 100 packs up for grabs so if you're keen to be a good egg this Easter, you'll have to get in quick.  

Kol's Closing But Not Without An Unexpected Flourish That's Set To Kickstart A Hospo Newbie's Dreams

Image credit: KOL | Jamin Drupsteen & Josh Griggs

Sid and Chand Sahrawat (Cassia, The French Cafe) have just announced that their Ponsonby restaurant, Kol, is closing this May. But a new venture is already set to rise in its place—KOL/LAB, a hospitality incubator that includes zero lease commitment, use of KOL's fit-out and chattels, plus a mentorship from Sid and Chand and the Restaurant Association.

If that sounds like a bit of you, stage one applications are open and will be assessed by a selection panel of head of the Restaurant Association Marisa Bidois, Al Brown and owner-editor of Cuisine Magazine Kelli Brett.  Kol's final dinner service will be on Mother's Day, Sunday 11 May. 

This French Patisserie Does Surprise Tastings Every Thursday

Image credit: Commercial Bay | Instagram

In case you missed it, hidden away in Commercial Bay is a sleek sweet treats shop called J'aime les Macarons  (that's French for I Love Macarons which I'm sure you'll agree is highly relatable content). Every Thursday from 9.30am 'til 4.30pm they host a surprise tasting which sounds like a tonic to the almost-Friday slump, if you ask me. Swing by next time the urge strikes and you might just get to nibble on a buttery pretzel biscuit, a pistachio butter crayon or maybe even an exquisite brulé macaron. 

An Incredible Floating Dining Experience Is Coming to Central Otago

Image credit: Wonderscape | Cloudy Bay

April is ridiculously near and that means Easter so it's rather on brand that Cloudy Bay's Wonderscape 2025—where diners feast on a floating table—is on par with a biblical-level miracle. The exquisite illusion is spellbinding in its own right and the menu adds yet another layer of awe. Created in collaboration between Cloudy Bay's own Chef Momo and the inimitable Tom Hishon (Kingi, Daily Bread, With Wild), guests can expect to be treated to the best kai in the region, with Cloudy Bay wine matches, naturally. If that sounds like a bit of you (it does), swap a chic $220 for a ticket and be at The Cloudy Bay Shed in Central Otago for a 1pm start on Saturday 12 April. 

Jamaica Meets Polynesia In This Epic Island Collab

Image credit: Nanny's Eatery | Instagram

Make a beeline for Nanny's Eatery before the end of the month and you'll get to wrap your mouth around a stunning culinary venn diagram of Jamaican, Māori and Polynesian flavours. The collab with Takura Ki Te Ao features a five-strong menu including Avaiki ceviche (sure to be a transcendental experience), smoked umu lamb with Nanny's froth-worthy flatbread, jerk pork done hāngi style and served atop chop suey, octopus with watermelon salad, chunky taro chips with parmesan and Jamaican spiced dip, and a round of aioli-dunked fries. The best part? Each dish is just ten bucks. What a steal. 

The Capital's Getting Free Hot Cross Caramilk Buns This April

Image credit: Woolworths | supplied

Woolworths' Hot Cross Bun Food Truck will be rolling into Wellington on Saturday 5 April and slinging free hot cross buns. Better still, they're the TikTok viral Cadbury Caramilk buns from last year's Easter frenzy so things are probably going to get wild. To secure yourself a mouthful of the goods, make sure you're at Wellington Waterfront (near the Wellington sign by Te Papa) at 10.30am sharp. The buns will be a-flinging from then until 2pm but we reckon you should get there as early as possible, just in case. 

This Takapuna Burger Joint Is Giving Away 300 Free Burgers This Friday

Image credit: Benny's American Burgers | Instagram

Benny's American Burgers made the leap across the ditch (from Oz) last year and, after an extended soft launch, is celebrating it's NZ debut afresh by giving away 300 burgers on Friday 28 March. If, like us, you reckon your week could do with a bit of free burg', be sure to be on Benny's doorstep on Hurstmere Road at 5pm sharp (or, better still, get there earlier to secure your bun). 

Frank Green Has Just Dropped A Fresh New Limited-Edition Edit

Image credit: Frank Green | supplied

Daylight saving looms and with that comes darker days. If only we had a cheerfully-coloured drink bottle to keep that summer energy alive... Oh wait, Frank Green's just dropped four bright new colourways in bubblegum blast, blue lagoon, peppermint and toffee. And we're pretty sure sipping on one of these is a surefire way to keep the winter blues at bay. Swipe one for yourself here for $79.99.

Metita Is Crushing It With Its First Ever Vegan Menu

Image credit: Metita | Instagram

Home to the iconic corned beef steamed bun, a vegan menu is unexpected at Metita but—like everything else they've done to date—it hits all the right notes (and that's coming from a vegetarian). This vegan edit follows in the footsteps of their classic menu in that each of the seven dishes features Polynesian ingredients like paulsami puree, betel leaf, okra, umala (sweet potato) and ulu (breadfruit). Each dish is hyper-aesthetic and—most importantly—pops with flavour.

Our favourites? (Plural because we flat out refuse to put ourselves through the agony of choosing just one,) The vibrant roasted pumpkin with betel leaf, the grilled oyster mushroom and ulu—skewered and brimming with umami and texture—and the showstopping passionfruit, pineapple, niu sorbet and yoghurt dessert bound with cashew which very nearly reduced us to tears of joy. 

Vampires, Look Away—International Garlic Day Is Coming And Bossi Has The Way To Celebrate

Image credit: Bossi | supplied

There's hardly anything better in this life than bread buttered to the hilt and slathered in garlic. And that's exactly what Bossi has served up for International Garlic Day which hits on 19 April. Made in house (of course) and baked fresh to order, this pull-apart garlic bread—or pane all'aglio, as the Italians would say—is already on offer. Simply wander up, swap $15 and live the dream. 

Get Your Fankery Fix At The University Of Auckland

Image credit: Fankery | Instagram

UoA students are being powered by mochi-filled cakes at the moment thanks to a Fankery pop-up at 2 Alfred Street, running from 17-28 March. Already in full swing, there's a rotation of whimsical treats on offer including Fankery's signature mochi-filled cheesecakes, cookies and tarts, plus Dubai chocolate pistachio chiffon crepe cakes (which are selling out on the daily), pork mince mooncakes, pistachio cream matcha, and more. We'd recommend turning up as close to 10am as possible. 

Whiskey Lovers, Jameson Just Announced A Limited-Edition Bottle Designed By Anderson.Paak

Image credit: Jameson | supplied

If you're still feeling dusty from St Paddy's Day, you're not alone (and p.s. you might want to check out our edit of the best hangover eats to bring you back to life). And while you were out living the lit life, Anderson.Paak was busy announcing he's just designed a limited-edition Jameson whiskey bottle. The sleek bottle is part of the Grammy Award-winning musician and Jameson Music Distiller's  Triple Distilled Collection and you can secure one for yourself on Jameson's website for $52, while stocks last.  

Don't Miss This Legendary Collab At Aryeh

Image credit: Aryeh | supplied

Book into stunning Piha restaurant, Aryeh, on 28 March and you'll be treated to the culinary artistry of both Aryeh owner and chef Lucas Parkinson and Peter Gordon. The two extraordinary chefs are joining forces for a one-night five-course menu that they've been musing over for over a year. The menu, which is touted to feature the likes of sesame roast kūmara, Aryeh's own Grand Reserve Mapari ribeye and a whole lot of surprises along the way is priced at $144 per person and is sure to sell out. Book via Aryeh's website or by phoning 027 411 7046. 

Keep Those Summer Vibes Alive With Solbevi

Image credit: Solbevi | Instagram

Limoncello in a can, anyone? Adorned with an anonymous woman wearing a large-brimmed hat and floating in a rubber ring, this ready-to-sip limoncello spritz is giving long, languid Italian summers with tasting notes reminiscent of hard lemonade but dial up the sophistication. 

The Melbourne-based brand has hopped the ditch and is now produced right here in Tāmaki. You can pick up a 10-pack online for $32. 

Bluff Oyster Season Has Arrived At La Zeppa

Image credit: La Zeppa | supplied

March means Bluff oyster season (with the annual-ish Bluff Oyster Festival set for 24 May) but you don't have to head down Southland way to get amongst the action. Simply make a beeline for La Zeppa and score 1/2 a dozen of the gems for $26 (or shell out $49 for a dozen). Best enjoyed with a flute (or four) of Piper Heidsieck Champagne. Cheers to that. 

Wellington's Poised To Score Two Of Auckland's Favourite Pan-Asian Restaurants 

Image credit: Lucky 8 | Besa Social

Southeast Asian-inspired neon wonderland Jungle 8 and sleek Chinese and Japanese pan-Asian  eatery Lucky 8 are getting a two-storey sister restaurant in the capital this October. Set to spring up on Courtenay Place's Golden Mile, it'll be an evolution  rather than a cut-and-paste of the Auckland eateries. The culinary duplex will have a relaxed vibe Lucky 8 on top and a humming Jungle 8 restaurant-bar on the ground floor and we're very excited to see it come to life. 

Roses Dining Room Is Closing Its Doors Permanently At The End Of The Month

Image credit: Roses Dining Room | Michael White 

Two and a half years ago Roses Dining Room appeared on Karangahape Road. 31 chefs and 22 winemakers later, it's set to close its doors with 28 March as its last supper. While Roses will be undoubtedly missed by all, this isn't the usual heart-wrenching closure story. The team have shared on their Instagram that the closure "feels so complete" and have hinted at some yet-to-be-revealed projects. We'll be sharing more here as it all unfolds. 

Parade's Doing All-You-Can-Eat Burgers For One Night Only

Image credit: Spark x Parade | supplied

The catch? You have to win a double pass to get amongst and there are only 25 up for grabs. The Bottomless Beats, Bytes and Burgers event is a celebration of Spark launching free data for Spotify music and will feature limited-edition muzo-inspired burgs such as the Taylor Swiss and Smash Hits (vege options available), paired with drinks like Jolly Parton and Splice of Heaven. Enter the draw by 20 March and you might just be heading along to the exclusive bottomless burgers event on the 26th. 

Hilton Auckland Has Just Launched A Sri Lankan-Inspired Afternoon Tea

Image credit: Hilton Auckland | supplied

Oh, how we wish you could hop on a plane and hightail it to Sri Lanka. In the meantime, the next best thing is Hilton Auckland's brand new limited edition afternoon tea which is—yep, you guessed it—inspired by Sri Lanka's food scene. Milk rice, mango lamingtons, black pork curry bun,  jackfruit crostini, coconut roti and more await you at the next chapter of Bellini Bar's Afternoon Tea by the Sea series. Created by Sri Lankan chef Hiranya Ratnayake, booking into Roots of Chef Hiranya is $70 per person (plus $15 if you'd like a glass of Pommery Champagne) available from now until 31 May, Thursday through Sunday. 

Coming To A Plate Near You: Peruvian Fare At Its Finest

Image credit: Nic Watt | supplied

If you haven't tried Peruvian cuisine before (or even if you have), there are two exclusive events going down at INCA Ponsonby this month that you'll definitely want to add to your calendar. What's all the hype about? Chef-restauranteur, Nic Watt, is teaming up with LA-based Peruvian chef, Ricardo Zarate whose restaurant The Hummingbird scored a spot in The Infatuation LA's 'best restaurants list' last year. Later this month, Nic and Ricardo will be joining forces to create a five-course Peruvian-inspired dinner on Friday 28 March and a three-course supper club-style lunch on Saturday 29 March, both of which are sure to be lick-your-plate-level good. 

Farm House Cafe Is About To Launch A High Tea Stacked With Exquisite Treats

Image credit: Farm House Cafe | Michael White

Breaking news: we may have found something we adore even more than Farm House Cafe's world-famous-in-Auckland cinnabuns. Sure, this is a serious call to make, but what if we told you that something was actually a brand-new high tea, stacked with exquisite treats and enjoyed in one of the prettiest rural settings around? Exactly. 

Available weekends only starting Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March, if this sounds like a bit of you, you'll need to book, stat. Here's everything you need to know. 

Shishito Peppers Are The Perfect Snack Match For Your Next After Work Spritz

Image credit: Norma Taps | Jake Dennis

Norma Taps has launched a new menu and it's inspired by a bold, punchy take on authentic Italian tasting notes. The fried shishito peppers are a welcome switch up from our usual cocktail snacking, especially with the addition of basil and feta dipping whip. If you're feeling fancy, opt for the fish crudo or if you're staying tried-and-true, summon a pizza to your table—perhaps the saucy vodka-spiked Nik or a Bastard Marg topped with burrata (*swoon*). And since you can never have enough pizza, they've snuck in a cheeky nutella pizza onto their dessert menu. Naiiice. 

Shnack Is The Protein Shake In A Can You Never Knew You Needed

Image credit: Shnack | Instagram

Shnack is hitting the supermarket shelves and, with a whopping 17 grams of plant-based protein, it's the perfect... shnack. Keeping hanger at bay and aiding in muscle recovery after a workout, the shnackable oat milk bevvy—yep, it's dairy-free and low in sugar—is smart snacking incarnate. Retailing at $5.49 a pop at New World, Pak'nSave, Four Square and online, choose from salted caramel, vanilla latte and chocolate brownie or add a mixed pack to your snack stash.

Most importantly though, it tastes pretty damn good. Shnack is creamy (like, dairy-level creamy) without the heaviness of other protein shakes and each of the flavours take the edge off that classic protein taste. We'll be hitting it on the reg. 

March Means A Month-Long Cocktail Showdown

Image credit: Taphouse | supplied

The Trusts' Battle of the Bartenders is in full swing so if you've got a keen palette primed for booze, you'll want to wrangle a sober driver and curate a cocktail crawl across West Auckland. 

Vying for your votes is The Good Home with a rhubarb vanilla sour, The Taphouse with a salted caramel espresso martini (hello Easter), Greenfields with an indulgent Reese's Peanut Cup in liquid form and Mr Illingsworth with a Trader's Rum Punch. Plus, iTi with a negroni spagliato, Bricklane with a St Paddy's inspired Irish Sea, Workshop with an Indigo Spritz and The Hangar with a Runaway Ripple that pays homage to old school candy like peaches and cream. Every vote scores you a chance to win a $250 voucher so raise a glass and get sipping. 

The comp runs from 1-31 March. 

Miann Just Launched Cold Brew Tea To Go

Image credit: Miann | Instagram

While it may technically be autumn, that (glorious), residual summer heat has us craving all things chilled and it's as if Miann heard our first world problem cries because they've whipped up a brand new berry and pomegranate tea that's stuffed with fresh watermelon, strawberries, blood orange, pear and apple. The best part? It comes in a handy to-go container for a refreshing summer sip whenever you need it. Available from Miann Britomart. 

Broke Boy Taco Is In Panmure Right Now

Image credit: Broke Boy Taco | Vanessa Zhao

Look, we know you lose your sh*t over Broke Boy Taco (and we'd expect nothing less), so we're hell-bent on keeping you up-to-date with the latest intel. And it just so happens that right this very minute, the Borke Boy Taco truck is parked up at The Beer Spot in Panmure—that's 12/71 Jellicoe Road to be exact—and it'll be dishing all the good stuff until 9 March. Have at. 

Get Your Mitts On A Pretty Patty From Farro 

Image credit: Farro | website

Farro's stocking rainbow rolls at the moment and they're giving pretty patties straight from Bikini Bottom. (Any '90s children in the house?) Fortunately, unlike their cartoon counterpart, these buns won't turn you bright blue. If you've got a hankering for a nostalgic feed, pop along to your nearest Farro with $11.49 to snag a pack of 4. 

This Bombay Canteen Is An Essential Addition To Your March Culinary Calendar

Image credit: Mumbaiwala | Instagram

Mumbaiwala's popping off this March with a vibrant collab with Sawmill Brewing to celebrate India's beloved Holi Festival Of Colour. What's in store for you at The Bombay Canteen exactly? Butter chicken or spicy vindaloo jumbo wings (you can snag a plate of 5 for ten bucks), crispy dahi puri, chocolate samosas, and more. As for drinks, The Bombay Canteen bar is loaded with offerings from Sawmill Brewery including the Jal Jerra that's coming in hot—think of it as a cumin-spiced lemonade beer blend. 

Follow The Red Rabbit And You Just Might Score Free Coffee And Croissants

Image credit: Red Rabbit | supplied

The happily caffeinated among us will already be familiar with a certain Red Rabbit. And we're very excited to announce that its newest iteration—a roastery in Grey Lynn—is celebrating its grand opening on Saturday 1 March. Head along and you'll score free coffee all day long plus there are 100 croissants from Bread & Buttery Bakery to scoff down, too, among prizes like a year's worth of coffee. Reooow. 

Raise A Can, moodi's New Pre + Probiotic Sodas Are Flying Off Supermarket Shelves

Image credit: moodi | supplied

If your pantry quietly houses a stash of moodi's cookies and functional protein blends, you're not alone—1 in 30 women in Aotearoa happily sip (and devour) moodi on the daily. And now the good folks are stocking supermarkets with a trio of pre + probiotic sodas in pink lemonade (yep, it's the fizzed equivalent of their best-selling powdered blend), lemon lime and blackcurrant apple. Why are we so excited about soda? It's packed with 7 grams of fibre per serve and it's got less than 3 grams of sugar per can and—vitally—it tastes really good. Might be our next booze-free alternative, just sayin'. 

Matcha Just Hits Different When It's Whisked In Stunning Ceramic 

Image credit: Thea Matcha | website

Don't get us wrong, we love whisking our matcha in a cute glass bowl, but Thea's collab with Tairāwhiti Gisborne-based ceramicist Nathan Food (aka Studio Foon) has turned our head and we might just have to let our trigger finger follow suit. Yep, if you're anything like us you'll be adding this limited edition ceramic matcha series to cart, stat. The three-piece collection includes two chawans (tea bowls) at $75 each and a chasen (tea whisk) holder which clocks in at $45. The ceramic work bridges functionality and beauty which, as any matchaholic will already know, is exactly what the ritual of matcha is all about too. 

Huffer Has Joined Forces With Pie Rollas For One Of The Tastiest Streetwear Collabs To Date

Image credit: Huffer x Pie Rollas | Huffer website

Pie fans, assemble. You can now flaunt your loyalty for one of Aotearoa's best pies with some brand new threads from Huffer. The 11-piece collab—which ranges from $14.90 to $129.90—includes hoodies, caps, tees, socks and, perhaps most crucially, a pie blower fan to ensure you never forget to blow on the pie. Got cash to splash? Pop over to Huffer's website to stock up on the goods before the sell out. 

Broke Boy Taco Is Opening A Second Store

Image credit: Broke Boy Taco | Instagram

Fresh from some incredible collabs (the ice cream taco that was an instant cult-favourite, headlining the eats at Laneway and materialising on our doorsteps with DoorDash), comes the only thing that could be possibly better than Broke Boy Taco—a second Broke Boy Taco. 

While the open date hasn't been finalised, we can expect the second (or hopefully many) Broke Boy Taco shop to throw open its doors in late March or early April. The exact location? The former digs of Coffee Time at 32 Birkenhead Avenue. 

Have Your Plant-Based Cake And Eat It Too At Neat Cakes 2.0

Image credit: Joanna King Art x Neat Cakes | Instagram

For the last two years, Neat Cakes has been Tāmaki's go-to made-to-order plant-based cake studio and this month it just gets better—Neat Cakes is now open for walk-ins. From Wednesday to Saturday, 8am 'til 2pm every week, you can pull up a pew at the Dominion Road studio and get cosy with a cup of Flight Coffee and whatever sweet treats tickle your tastebuds. Now, that's neat. 

Nab A Free Softserve Ice Cream In Auckland's Picturesque Parks

Image credit: Kit Kat | Supplied

The stuff foodie collabs are made of. Kit Kat x Mr Whippy are joining creamy, dairy, indulgent forces to celebrate the arrival of a the Kit Kat Neapolitan block and bar. 

It's time to fire up your Google maps, because on the weekend of the 22nd and 23rd, a special ice cream truck will zoom around Auckland, from Kohimarama to Western Springs, rolling—sorry, squeezing—out a special cone to celebrate. Oh, and all for free.

It's the iconic soft serve cone, with a finger of this new, nostalgic chocolate bar yoinked into the soft serve. The perfect apetite whetter for when this bar lands on shelves in late February, if you ask us.  

A New Bombshell Has Entered The Villa (In Matcha Land)

Image credit: Nomu Matcha | supplied

Matchaholics take note, a new matcha brand has materialised. Created by mother-daughter duo Tessa Stockdale and Karen Parsons, Nomu Matcha features dark green matcha powder from Uji, Japan. As for tasting notes? She's bold. Great if you like your matcha straight-up green or you dig a strong contrast to the sweet kiss of strawberry. A 40g tin of Nomu clocks in at $49 and they've also whipped up a Nomu spoon ($35) which doubles as a scoop and a sieve for smooth sipping, every single time. (Pssst, you might also like to check out where to find Auckland's best matcha.)

Le Creuset Just Dropped An Insulated Water Bottle And We're A Bit Smitten

Image credit: Le Creuset | Instagram

Lost your drink bottle (again)? The stars have aligned. Coming in hot from Le Creuset, their new Insulated Water Bottle series is here to save the day. With double-wall insulation, the bottle keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold plus—and here's what we're really excited about—each bottle has two openings. Yep, there's a wider opening for packing that baby with ice, mint, lemon wedges or whatever takes your fancy, and a narrower opening for easy sipping. Plus, that dual opening is a lifesaver when it comes to cleaning. The bottles are available in eight bright colourways, in 500mL or 1L and are yours for $60-$80. 

KFC Is Opening A Fish And Chip Shop In Mairangi Bay

In a world first, KFC is opening KF&C, a fish and chip shop where you can feast on limited edition Secret Recipe fish battered in KFC’s iconic 11 secret herbs and spices with chips or a Secret Recipe fish burger. The catch? It’s only open for two days—Friday 21 and Saturday 22 February from 12 ’til 7pm. The pop up, which is set to materialise on the grassy knoll beside Mairangi Bay Surf Life Saving Club is a fundraiser with all proceeds being donated to the club in support of their kaupapa of keeping our beach-goers safe. Naiiiice. 

Get Your Uber Eats Delivered To The Beach This Weekend

Image credit: Uber Eats | supplied

This Friday and Saturday (14 and 15 February) your favourite dishes can be summoned to select city beaches in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch plus a bunch of towns up and down the motu. Better still, feasting on the sand won't cost you any more than your regular Uber Eats delivery, in fact, it might cost you less—'Reach The Beach' orders over $20 will score free delivery. 

To make the most of this limited-time offer, jump onto the Uber Eats app, go to 'Promotions' (under the account tab) and use the discount code REACH2BEACH, building your order from the participating merchants in your area like Moustache Milk & Cookie Bar, Burger Fuel, St Pierres Sushi, Tank Juice, Daldang, Crispy Eatery, Luna Bakehouse, and more. 

Did Somebody Say Deep Fried Ice Cream? Oh Wait, That Was Us

Image credit: Mexico | supplied

It's giving every-day's-a-good-day-for-ice-cream, the deep-fried edit. For just one week (from 13-18 February), Mexico Food & Liquor is serving golden, creamy goodness fried for the gods. What exactly will appear on your plate? A taco-crumbed, chocolate-drizzled scoop, that's what. And it doesn't stop there. This bad boy comes with torched whipped crema, macerated berries and sweet almonds. Yours for just $15 bucks, it's so indulgent we're calling definitely NSFW. 

The Ninja SLUSHi Has Finally Landed In Aotearoa

Image credit: Urban List

We're emerging from the sort of frosé haze that summer quite simply demands to inform you that your seasonal frosé (or frozen marg) indulgence is seasonal no more. That's right, the Ninja SLUSHi has finally reached our shores and that means slushies from the comfort of your living room (or luxe vacay spot, even) and isn't that just heavenly? Better still, the thing doesn't even need ice. Sound like a bit of you? Head here with $599.99. 

Scapegrace's Brutal Edit Has Returned And We Can't Help But Love It

Can't get your ex out of your head this V-Day? Scapegrace has whipped up a solution that proves it really is the thought that counts. The Scapegrace Sweet Nothing Box is a custom gift box that's almost empty, getting your ex's hopes up just to dash them to smithereens (just like they did to your heart). The box costs zip aside from postage. Send one to that not-so-special person here and maybe grab yourself a bottle of the good stuff while you're at it. 

 

Pastrami & Rye Are Slingin' Top Tier Sandos At Ponsonby Central 

Image credit: Pastrami & Rye | supplied

We were devastated to hear of the closure of Sammy's Deli at the end of last year. The only thing that's made the news somewhat bearable is the new life that has sprung up in the interim. Yep, the bowtie and flat cap-wearing team at Ellerslie's Pastrami & Rye has materialised and will be slinging their American deli-style sandos, pastries, salads, coffee and juices to the Ponsonby public Monday through Sunday, 7am to 3pm from now until May. 

Everything We'll Be Putting In Our Mouths This Valentine's Day

Image credit: The Sugar Dealer | Instagram

Hello lovers. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner—14 February to be exact—so if you haven’t made plans yet, you’d better hustle. Whether you love one or many, you’re looking to sweep your fellow lovebird off their feet, or you’re thinking about taking your situationship to the next level, a romantic Valentine’s Day date is sure to have them catching all the feels. Cupid’s at the ready and we’re crossing our fingers for fireworks. We've rounded up all the most sumptuous treats that'll have you screaming with ecstasy, here. 

A Love Bomb Is Dropping At QT Auckland And Queenstown 

Image credit: QT Hotel x Black Star Pastry | supplied

QT is teaming up with Sydney dessert royalty, Black Star Pastry, to drop one helluva love bomb into the mix. In fact, they've whipped up a full Eat Your Heart Out menu, a sultry two-piece oral delight: The Love Bomb and The Ghost. The former is a creamy explosion that sees layers of velvet cake, silky crémeux, gooey ganache and streusel crumb bewitch your taste buds. The Ghost is the yin to The Love Bomb's yang, offering up a vanilla mousse on berry sponge. Better still, every dessert ordered will come with a love letter that might just snag you a free overnight stay in QT. Lush. 

The Eat Your Heart Out Menu is available from QT Auckland and QT Queenstown's restaurants and room service from 14 February to 14 March. 

Matakana's Newly Relaunched Rothko Restaurant Has Entered Its Fire And Ferment Era

Image credit: Rothko | supplied

Sculptureum has reopened its on-site restaurant, Rothko, and this time it's helmed by Head Chef Neil Sapitula (Solera, Cocoro, Nanam). Naturally, he's shaken up the menu. Drawing on his Philippino roots, it's all about open-fire cooking and bold new flavours from large-scale ferments. Think: smokey pork with Korean soybean dipping sauce, napa cabbage in a Lebanese black garlic toum and, if you're feeling adventurous, chicken feet and ox tongue. 

Sip On This Limited Edition Cocktail And You Might Just Score An Indulgent Staycation 

Image credit: HI-SO Rooftop Bar | supplied

HI-SO Rooftop Bar has added an exquisite Mandarin Hi-Ball cocktail to its drink lineup in celebration of the dawning of the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake. Tall, citrusy, fresh and foamy, the bewitching tipple—designed by HI-SO's Bar Manager Harry Alexander—is a blend of yuzu gin, aperol, fig, lemon and mandarin—a lucky fruit in Chinese culture. As if that wasn't enough, every cocktail is garnished with a mystery envelope which could be anything from snacky pick-me-ups to luxe spa packages and cheeky staycays at SO/Auckland. Hot damn. 

Drop a neat $24 at HI-SO between now and 28 February to get in on the action. 

The Battle Is On For Aotearoa's Best Burger

Image credit: 16 Tun | supplied

Bun buffs assemble, come March there'll be just four burgers to rule them all. That's right, Cook & Nelson's Burger Nation has kicked off this week and the competitors are coming in hot (fresh off the fryer, in fact). With burger flippers across the motu vying for the highly coveted title of best meat, chicken, seafood and plant-based burgers in all the land, there's a whole lot of burgers to be housed. This is not a drill. 

From 29 January to 2 March you can put their burgers where your mouth is and vote for your favourites. (Aucklanders will be stoked to find faves like 16 Tun, Burgernaut and Lucky G's among the lineup.) The bonus? Every burger will contain McClure's pickles. Yaaas.

Head to Burger Nation's website to get matched to hot burgs in your area then get feastin'. 

Pic's Just Dropped A New Flavour And It's A Disco For Your Taste Buds

Image credit: Pic's | supplied

There's a time and a place for PB and J but the purists will argue nothing beats peanut butter with a subtle sprinkling of salt. Then again, Pic's just dropped a world-shaking new flavour bomb and it's a game changer. Meet Pic's Salt & Pepper. It sounds simple enough but they're calling it a disco for your tastebuds and we can confirm: they're spot on. What begins as the signature Pic's taste we know and love morphs into a peppery hit. She's spicy and we're swooning. 

The team's remaining tight-lipped about how long this baddie will be around for so if this sounds like a bit of you, don't delay.  Snag yourself a jar from Pic's Peanut Butter World in Nelson for the rather reasonable sum of $7.50 or order online and have it materialise on your doorstep. Naiiice. 

You're Guaranteed To Be Dumpling-cepted By Wellington Museum's Newest Exhibition 

Image credit: Bev Moon | Instagram

Fortune is the knitted yum cha banquet we never thought we needed (but we were immediately obsessed as soon as we heard about it). Created by artist Bev Moon during the dreaded lockdown of 2021, it's a mouthwatering spread complete with knitted effigies of wontons, dumplings, pork buns, spring rolls and other dainty delights with recordings from a yum cha restaurant ensuring you're fully immersed.

The exhibition is homage to Moon's taishanese mother and grandmother who were two of only 500 Chinese women and children granted temporary refuge in Aotearoa during the Sino-Japanese War. They also both just so happened to excel in cooking and knitting. 

Feast your eyes on Moon's work at Te Waka Huia Wellington Museum from now until 27 April 2025. Just be sure to have a dumpling spot lined up for afterwards. (We'd suggest the world-famous-in-Wellington chilli oil dumplings from Rams.)

Score 12 Bottles Of The Good Stuff From Everyday Wine For As Little As $100

Image credit: Everyday Wine | supplied

Usually an $8 pricepoint on a bottle of wine would be a glaring red flag and you'd do well to scarper away, stat. Interestingly, that's not the case when it comes to Everyday Wine's Case Deals where you can score a 12-bottle case of wine for a hundred bucks (yep, that's $8.33 a bottle).  Now, we feel your side-eye and we respect it, but know that Everyday Wines has a little trick up its sleeve that sets it apart from the rest—they work directly with grape growers, bypassing up to three layers of margin. The result? Premium wines at superbly low prices. We'll cheers to that. 

A Meatball Festival Is Coming To Hastings This March

Image credit: Sazio | supplied

The Hawke's Bay Tourism Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C.) is a main event on the Aotearoa culinary calendar but this year there's even more reason to wave your fork in the air in anticipation. For the first time ever, New Zealand's getting a Meatball Festival. And it isn't just a celebration of all things meatball—no, no—this festival will see local chefs, cooks and bakers go head-to-head in the valiant quest to crown Aotearoa's best meatball. 

F.A.W.C. runs from 14-23 March. Want a slice (or rather, a ball) of the action? Snag a ticket here. 

Celebrate Chinese New Year With A Haul Of Delectable Morsels

Image credit: Butter Baby | Instagram

The Year Of The Snake is coming— on 29 January to be exact— and it's set to be quite the sumptuous occasion. Butter Baby's slinging sponge cake three ways in coconut and mango mousse, ube kaya and an exquisite (or should we say bratty?) shade of green ($55-85), plus they've released a collection of kueh which they'll be dishing up at their upcoming markets. Wen & Yen has whipped up a $35 box of treats featuring a lychee raspberry rosewater swiss roll, sesame and pandan red bean doughnuts, pineapple tarts and salted egg yolk cookies (including a gluten-free edit).

Folds Patisserie is doing darling pineapple tart, sambal and salted egg and cornflake flavours, all in cookie form and $20 a jar, and Fankery has put together a selection of mochi-studded pineapple cakes, salted caramel almond brittle crunch, lantern-shaped butter cookies and matcha ganache strawberry jam thumbprint cookies ($62). 

Meat Eaters Assemble, A Bottomless BBQ Just Landed In Grey Lynn 

Image credit: Smoking Shack | Michael White

The pitmaster extraordinaires at Smoking Shack are doing Bottomless BBQ on Sundays and it's a meat eaters' dream.  Yes siree, from 12 'til 3pm every Sunday, you can throw down $69 and you'll get to eat all the meat you can for 90 minutes. On the menu? Smoked wagyu brisket, St. Louis pork ribs, smoked chicken wings, house-made sausages, pulled pork and hog candy plus fries and slaw on the side. Move over boozy bottomless, it's all about BBQ here. (Although can confirm, their cocktails are fire and definitely worth shelling out for.)

Laneway Just Announced Its Food Offering And It's Off The Chain

Image credit: Broke Boy Taco | Instagram

If you're headed to Laneway Festival on 6 February know you'll be very well fed. The iconic annual festival has just announced its food vendor lineup and it's just as hype-worthy as the musical acts themselves. Fuel your dance floor shenanigans with Broke Boy Taco, Pie Rolla's, Duck Island Ice Cream, Fatimas, Shake Out, Atomic Coffee, Wise Boys, The Rolling Pin, Taco Loco, Karaage Boy, Ramen Takara, Double Dutch Fries, Karma Cola, Roti Bros Pies, Langos, LJs Fish & Chippery, Anew, Manila Eats, Pane e Vino, and more. And if you're feeling bratty? Hit Brooklyn Dogs, of course. 

Easter Has Come Early—Daily Bread Just Opened Pre-Orders For Their Dope Hot Cross Buns 

Image credit: Daily Bread | Instagram

Fresh out of the oven (literally), Daily Bread has started the hot cross bun frenzy early—they're now accepting pre-orders for pick up and nationwide delivery from 24 January.  For the uninitiated, Daily Bread's version of this breaded classic ain't shy on the spice and is filled to the brim with sultanas, raisins and currants soaked in a splash of golden rum (now you're talking).
 
However, it's the sourdough base that's where the magic really happens, resulting in a bun that's springy, moist, and drop-dead DELICIOUS. Better still, they've announced they'll be releasing yet another  new flavour this year. If you want in head to Daily Bread's website and drop $23 to secure yourself a pack of six. 

Delight In A Care Bears-Themed High Tea This Month

Image credit: Cordis Auckland | Instagram

Thanks to Cordis Auckland, we'll be kicking off the new year with the cutest, most wholesome high tea in all the land and we're giddy with joy. The Care Bear-inspired High Tea will take place at Cordis every Saturday and Sunday from 4 'til 19 January 2025 with seatings available between 11am and 1pm. 

As for the menu expect a feast of cute savoury and sweet bear-shaped bites (with a side of minor existential crises when you realise your table is strewn with decaptiated bears). Our favourite? An immaculate white chocolate citrus mousse cake effigy of Funshine Bear. 

Adults are $75 which includes a glass of sparkling wine, kids are $70 each and dietaries can be worked around, just let the team know when you book.

Have Your Cake And Eat It Too With This Very French, Very Delectable Tradition

Image credit: La Petite Fourchette | Facebook

As if we needed an excuse to tuck into a slab of perfectly golden puff pastry. For the uninitiated, January calls for Galette des Rois (aka King Cake), a decadent flaky pastry filled with almond frangipane. Traditionally enjoyed among loved ones, the cake is sliced up and shared out, each piece paired to a person according to the whim of the youngest in the room. If you find a token in your slice, you are crowned the king or queen for the day. Perhaps your first order could be to summon another slice of cake... While France might be a little far away, Wynyard Quarter's La Petite Fourchette is not and the cake is available on pre-order with 72 hours notice until the end of January. 

Takapuna Beach Cafe Is Launching A Fish & Chip Shop For Summer

Image credit: Takapuna Beach Cafe | Nathan Thomas

It's fair to say we're a little bit obsessed with fish and chips, especially when we can tuck into them on the beach, so when we heard the legends at Takapuna Beach Cafe will be serving up fish and chips beach-side we were beyond excited. The pop-up Fish & Chip Shop will be slingin' the classics like battered and crumbed fish, sausages, fritters and calamari plus specials like fish sliders, chip butty, oyster butty (featuring bread from Knead On Benson), prawn toast and Valhrona ganache doughnuts with gelato through the summer months until 6 April. Choiiiice. 

This Auckland Rooftop Bar Is About To Start Selling $200 Cocktails 

Image credit: Darling x Meadowlark | supplied

Would you shell out 200 big ones for a cocktail? This Friday 13 December Darling on Drake is adding a $200 cocktail to their drinks list. Dubbed 'The Cherub' each cocktail is a blend of Peddlers salted plum gin, honey, fresh grape and lemon. Each one contains a Meadowlark Cherub Charm encased in ice. 

The boujee cocktail is a collab with Meadowlark to celebrate Darling on Drake's first birthday (you can win a $500 bar tab here) and is one of a limited-edition six-piece capsule of Darling-inspired necklaces and rings. 

These No-Bake Gingerbread House And Cookie Decorating Kits Are Practically Foolproof

Image credit: Alice Rich

Gingerbread house-making nights are popping up all over TikTok at the moment and we're feeling it, except for the part where we have to slave away for hours doing cookie prep with no guarantee they'll turn out good enough to actually be used. But like the rosebud cheat code in The Sims, Woolworths is enabling us to skip the hard work and do only the fun stuff—it's a Christmas miracle.

Their DIY gingerbread house kit ($25) comes packed with gumdrops, icing, teeny tiny coloured sugar spheres and all the cookies you need to construct the house of your dreams. Chuck the Christmas tunes on the speaker and rip into their DIY cookie decorating kit ($15 for 8 cookies), too, and it'll be impossible to not feel that festive spirit. 

Secure A Lifetime Spot On Santa's Nice List With This Box Of Freshly Baked Christmas Cookies

Image credit: The Dough Corner | supplied

Wanna know how to really impress Santa this Christmas Eve? Hit him with an entire box of irresistible handcrafted cookies from K' Road's newly-opened cookie store, The Dough Corner (with the obligatory glass of milk on the side, of course).

This sweet little shop, which is already earning a rep for producing some of the best biccies in town, has samplers with five festive flavors including Peppermint Wonderland, Mince Pie Delight, Gingerbread Bliss, Red Velvet Oreo Dream and Santa's Favourite M&M Cookie. Expect nothing but a plate full of crumbs in the morning... though we suspect you already knew that'd be the case, wink wink.

These Christmas cookies are available both in-store and for delivery nationwide, along with a holiday brownie topped in sprinkles, Biscoff crumbs, and a special festive message.

Giapo Is Setting Up Shop In Wynyard Quarter This Summer

Image credit: Giapo | Instagram

As the days get warmer it signals one thing—the need to know where your closest ice cream shop is at all times. And as of 7 December, you'll be twice as likely to be able to hit Giapo because they're popping up at Park Hyatt. Yes siree, if you're wandering about Wynyard when you suddenly get a craving for a top-tier treat, you can just trot over to Park Hyatt's Pantry Ice Cream Hut and get your scoop on. How good. 

The collab will run every Wednesday to Sunday throughout summer and will feature five of Giapo's most popular flavours (all gluten-free, of course). Hallelujah. 

Folds Patisserie Is Doing A Vibrant Christmas High Tea And It's Essential Eating

Image credit: Folds Patisserie | supplied

Park up your sleigh on Dominion Road this December and wrap your mouth around Folds Patisserie's Christmas high tea.

On the menu? For the savouries you've got pandan steamed buns (aka mantou) with chicken and potato curry, carrot and ricotta mille feuille, roast chicken and camembert Swiss rolls, prawn toast and an iconic Nasi lemak tart. On the sweet front, matcha strawberry tiramisu, a gorgeous bright green pandan crepe filled with grated coconut and sweet gula melaka, peach and vanilla choux and black forest pavlova. Plus,  Harney & Sons tea, Ozone coffee and iced drinks. All this for just $65 per person? Schtaaap. 

This tasty lil' situation is available 7 & 8, 14 & 15 and 20-22 December. Vegetarian menu available. Serves 2-8 people. Book here. 

The Broken Lantern Has Decked Their Halls And They've Got A Brand New Menu To Match

Image credit: The Broken Lantern | supplied

Full festive looks exceedingly good on The Broken Lantern so if you've been dreaming of a snowy Christmas (without the expensive plane ticket) you might just like to scamper along and soak it up. And while the wintery vibes are strong so is the sangria which you should absolutely soak up also. As for the kai, expect a full new menu created by resident Exec Chef Olly and new Head Chef Prashant. 

Think: gnocchi ragu, lamp rump with romesco, pork belly with garlic soy chilli caramel, market fish with tartare beurre blanc, roast carrots with cashew cream and harissa, vegan pizza and grilled balsamic glaze, plus Garden Spritz and a whole lot of Hendricks. Christmas come early? Hard yes. Book your table here. 

Krispy Kreme Has Released A Merry Grinchmas Collection And It's Kind Of Fantastic

Image credit: Krispy Kreme | supplied

Whether you're skipping into the silly season with (jingle) bells on or all the carols, hectic malls and frivolous Christmas parties are giving your inner grinch the ick, you might just like to sink your teeth into Krispy Kreme's festive drop. Dubbed a Merry Grinchmas, take a bite of a smirking Grinch, a Christmas tree drizzled with white truffle—hot damn—or a Christmas pudding in doughnut form (and a whole lot more). If you're shaking your fist at the merriment, there might as well be a doughnut in it. 

The Best Gluten-Free Bread Baker In Aotearoa Has Just Launched Mixes And We're Willing To Stage An Actual Bun Fight To Get Our Mitts On Them

Image credit: Lucy's Gluten Free | supplied

If you (like some of us) are plagued with an allergy or intolerance to gluten or wheat, we won't have to tell you how heart-wrenching it can be to have to break up with bread. Sure, there's always some sort of alternative but does it taste and feel like its glutenous counterpart? Nope. At least, that was the case before Lucy's Gluten Free came onto the scene. 

We kid you not, the first time we bit into Lucy's (and every glorious time since) we heard angels singing. With an entire range of gluten-free, vegan, and soy-free bread that actually looks, tastes and acts like bread, Lucy's is crushing it and we have no notes. So you bet we just about leapt off our chairs when we learned they've just dropped mixes for $9.99 a pop. And yeah, that's still expenny for bread bread but it's cheap as chips for the gluten-free variety. Head to any of these places and stock up. 

As Of This Tuesday, You'll Be Able To Get Broke Boy Taco Delivered To Your Door

Image credit: DoorDash | supplied

If you've been dreaming of a Broke Boy burrito, your prayers have been answered. But you won't be able to get it in store. From Tuesday 3 December (and every Tuesday thereafter) those who live within a 7km radius of their Mt Albert digs will be able to get their Broke Boy fix delivered direct to your door thanks to an exclusive partnership with DoorDash. And as if that wasn't cause enough for celebration in itself, a DoorDash-only brand new San Francisco-style birria burrito, complete with Broke Boy's signature consommé and homemade orange sauce will be up for grabs too. 

This Whimsical Pink And Green High Tea Is Wickedly Good

Image credit: Novotel | supplied

Oh how we love a high tea here at Urban List. Not to mention, one with a sparkly theme. Better yet, one that gives us a—quite literal—taste of our latest obsession. 

Presenting Novotel’s fantastical partnership with Wicked: the Wicked high tea. It’s a playful, fun sitch that puts a magic spin on high tea classics. Bewitched beef sliders, matcha tiramisu and gravity-defying creamy cottage cheese dip. 

Oh, and you won't go home thirsty either—there are gorgeous mocktails and cocktails to be had which may or may not impart magical powers (Magic Elixir, we're looking at you). We hear that one cocktail even comes complete with a crown that would make Glinda swoon. 

If You Eat Just One Thing On Waiheke Island This Summer, Make It Pizza Fritta

Image credit: Waiheke Distilling Co | supplied

Waiheke Distilling Co is dishing Napoli-style fried pizza dough—known as 'Pizza Fritta' in Italy—and it's best enjoyed lounging in the sun with a glass of vino or (better still) a tasting flight of the distillery's own gin or vodka. Summon your fried pizza topped with Clevedon buffalo mozzarella, tomato and parma ham, with four cheeses and hibiscus-infused honey, with zucchini and cashew cream, or hot smoked salmon, pistachios and pickled red onions. Better still, round up your crew and order the lot. 

A Sip And Snack Street Crawl Series Is Coming To Karangahape Road

Image credit: Bar Magda x Candela | supplied

Spanish wine bar, Candela, and Filipino speakeasy, Bar Magda, are joining forces this December to bring us Calle To Kayle—the epitome of a culinary street crawl in every way ('calle' and 'kayle' are the Spanish and Filipino words for 'street' respectively). The crawl is a four-part series taking place on 4, 11, 18 and 21 December from 6-9pm. A single date ticket will set you back about $100 per person but will include three generous snacks and a drink from each venue with each week throwing a different theme into the mix. A limited number of tickets will be released for each date so if this sounds like a bit of you, act quickly. 

Aryeh Piha Is Reopening For Summer Next Month

Image credit: Aryeh | Babiche Martens

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and fill your lungs with the fresh salty air at Chef Lucas Parkinson's beautiful sun-soaked restaurant. Aryeh's official summer szn will kick off on 1 December and run through to mid-April 2025. Expect a whole new set menu (priced at $89 and $144 per person) plus an à la carte menu option from 1 January. Aryeh afficionados will also be stoked to know the much-frothed Wednesday Test Kitchen and takeaway fish and chips will be back in full swing too. 

Moustache Just Dropped A Brand New Scorched Almond Cookie Pie 

Image credit: Moustache | Instagram

Moustache changed the milk-and-cookies game forever when they burst onto our local scene back in 2012. Ever since, they've been slaying (even before that was a thing) with inventive flavours, giant cookies and cookie cakes—these folks aren't messing around. The latest case in point? Their scorched almond cookie pie. And just in time for the annual scorched almond stocking-stuffer run. Available in all three Moustache stores (Manukau, Sylvia Park and Remuera) and online, shipping nationwide. 

Score A Free Ice Cream From Duck Island This Thursday

Image credit: Duck Island | Instagram

Duck Island is opening a new store in Britomart and to celebrate they'll be giving away free single scoops between 11am and 1pm on 21 November. Their full flavour range will be up for grabs, from strawberry coconut lime leaf and white chocolate pomegranate macadamia to fairy bread and blueberry buttermilk gooey butter cake. Praise be. 

Deep Fried Gelato Is Coming To Dominion Road This Weekend And It's Gluten-Free

Image credit: Folds Patisserie | supplied

Folds Patisserie is at it again, whipping up culinary wonders that taste so damn fine. This weekend they've joined forces with Mister Gelato and they'll be slinging deep fried gelato spheres from 11am each day. Choose from four flavours (all of which are gluten-free): matcha and strawberry, ube and taro, durian or pandan and gula melaka which also happens to be vegan/dairy-free as well. 

We got a little sneaky preview last week and can confirm: this is legit as they come. Don't skip the matcha and strawberry—the cream provides a subtle puff of sweetness while the savoury matcha is the perfect counterpoint (and, yes, we're in love).  

Broke Boy Taco Has Just Announced Two Massive (And Utterly Delicious) Collabs

Image credit: Duck Island Ice Cream | supplied

Two of the biggest names in the Tāmaki food scene have just joined forces and we couldn't be more delighted. Broke Boy Taco and Duck Island Ice Cream have created a Chilli Chocolate Ice Cream Taco and you're going to want to get your mitts on it, stat. The taco is made from freshly pressed, sweet buttery waffle shell stuffed with Ancho Chilli Chocolate ice cream with lime ganache topped with milk chocolate and salty chilli, lime and coriander sherbert. Dunk in chilli chocolate dipping sauce then shove it in your face.

Image credit: DoorDash | supplied

Better still, if you've been dreaming of a Broke Boy burrito, your prayers have been answered. But you won't be able to get it in store. From Tuesday 3 December (and every Tuesday thereafter) those who live within a 7km radius of their Mt Albert digs will be able to get their Broke Boy fix delivered direct to your door thanks to an exclusive partnership with DoorDash. And as if that wasn't cause enough for celebration in itself, a DoorDash-only brand new San Francisco-style birria burrito, complete with Broke Boy's signature consommé and homemade orange sauce will be up for grabs too. 

Möet & Chandon Has Just Released Limited-Edition Personalised Magnums

Image credit: Moët & Chandon x Farro | supplied

It's hard to go wrong with a bottle of bubbles, especially a 1.5L Moët Impérial 1.5L magnum emblazoned with a phrase or name of your choice in gold calligraphy. And that's exactly what Moët Chandon has arranged in collaboration with Farro's Smales Farm and Grey Lynn stores. If this has your loved one's name stamped all over it (soon to be literally), you can order via click and collect here for $189 a pop. 

A Specialty Coffee Trailer Has Just Rolled Into Torbay

Image credit: Longevity Cafe | Instagram

Get your caffeine fix with an added boost this summer, stopping by brand new specialty coffee trailer, Longevity Cafe this summer. Dishing mighty mugs of goodness from Waiake Beach Reserve, choose from a skin elixir collagen coffee with MCT oil, cinnamon and a double shot of espresso; Bulletproof coffee with a knob of butter or a relaxing blend with a solid serve of adaptogenic mushrooms. And of course they've got eats covered too with chia cups, stacked sandos and more. 

Score A Free Marshmallow Gingerbread Hot Chocolate This Saturday

Image credit: Cocoa Wilds | supplied

Start your Christmas celebrations early this weekend. Hot chocolate connoisseurs Cocoa Wilds and superfoods supplements Moodi Functional Blends are launching a one-day collab at Cocoa Wilds on Saturday—slinging free Gingerbread Hot Chocolates to the first 100 people. Moodi has just released their festive edition Gingerbread, which gives you all the energy and focus but without the caffeine crash. Add that to an iconic Cocoa Wilds toasted marshmallow and thick caramel cream hot choccie and start your day on a festive high. Get in early, the hot chocs will be flying out the door from 9am. 

Pistackio Makes Fresh Cannoli To Order And It's Essential Summer Picnic Fare

Image credit: Pistackio | supplied

Make your summer picnics and Christmas potlucks fuss-free by turning up with a bucket full of cannoli as made by you Pistackio. These gorgeous pastry shells are made to order and filled with sweet ricotta, candied oranges and chocolate chips. You bet they'll be gobbled up, stat. They're $5 a pop and orders can be made in-store or via email.

Scapegrace Has Just Crowned Aotearoa's Most Quintessential Cocktail And It's At Panacea

Image credit: Scapegrace | supplied

Auckland bartender Cal Ross has just taken out The Scapegrace: Unchartered Spirits cocktail competition with a tipple named Taniwha. This year's competition required entrants to draw inspiration from an unfamiliar region—Cal's creation had to relate to Fiordland/West Coast. The cocktail combines Scapegrace Black gin with local Syrah and a signature "Bushfire Shrub" and you can try it for yourself at Panacea. 

Summon Blitzen Into Your Cup This Christmas With Dark Horse Coffee

Image credit: Dark Horse Coffee | supplied

Heavens knows Silly Szn is aptly named. And that means caffeine at the ready. Better still, make it a Blitzen edit. The good folks at Dark Horse Coffee have brought back their Blitzen Christmas Blend and it’s giving vanilla nougat, Turkish delight, dark cocoa and blackcurrant. Easily prepped with filter plunger, pour-over or aeropress, it’s a nice little addition to any kitchen set-up.

The Vegan Treatory Just Dropped Their Christmas Edition 

Image credit: The Vegan Treatory | supplied

Put a little sweetness in your Silly Szn with a cookie (or, like, a tub of 'em) from the highly frothed Vegan Treatory. The limited edition Christmas release includes gingerbread cookie dough and white choc chunks rolled in gingerbread cookie crumbs, Whittaker's chocolate and fudgy brownie cookie dough with mint creme filling, and maple cinnamon cookie dough with brown sugar crumble topping. Get the whole haul in a Christmas Lover's Bundle for $49.99 online or at Farro. 

Allay Gnarly Hangovers With Korean Pear Extracts

Image credit: Seoul Tonic | supplied

'Tis the season and with that comes the almost inevitable accidental hangover. Unless, of course, you've stocked up on Seoul Tonic. Created by Sophie Hood and third-generation Korean pear farmer Mr Park, and endorsed by Gordon Ramsey, Seoul Tonic contains native extracts of Korean pears and oriental raisins which boost alcohol metabolism and reduce acetaldehyde (which is responsible for hangovers). Drink before getting on the hard stuff and you'll likely have a much rosier morning after. 

Christmas Is Coming And A KitKat Cabin Is Essential 

Image credit: KitKat | supplied

No shade on gingerbread houses but we’re entering our KitKat Cabin era and we can just about hear the sleighbells ringing. The kit—which is available from Woolworths, New World and The Warehouse for just $35—is packed with KitKat four finger milk and white chocolate bars, Smarties, white choc melts, ripe raspberry gummies and a KitKat santa who looks very pleased with himself (and rightly so).   

Richoux Patisserie Just Took Out The Vegan Pie Awards With A Cheese Burger Pie

Image credit: Richoux Patisserie | Facebook

Jason Hay, Master Baker at Richoux Patisserie, has even more to be stoked about as of World Vegan Day where his Cheese Burger Pie beat 71 others from across the motu to take out the hallowed title of Best Vegan Pie. The crew also snapped up bests for their green curry and jalapeño steak and cheese pies in signature Richoux flair. 

And in case you're planning a national pie crawl (we salute you) be sure to wrap your mouth around Piccolo Morso's butter chicken, Fairlie Bakehouse's mince and cheese and gluten-free American pumpkin pie, and Wild Grain Patisserie's peach blueberry and passionfruit. Read the full awards list here.

Sip On Dom Pérignon's Newest Vintage At Kingi

Image credit: Kingi | supplied

There's bubbles and then there's bubbles. We have it on good authority (our own) that Dom Pérignon's just-released 2015 Vintage is the latter. Oh so sippable the only way it could be better is paired with a signature bites menu curated by Kingi's own Chef Tom Hishon and that's exactly what Kingi's got on offer through the month of November. 

And if you're feeling like an extra special treat (you are), book into the aptly-named An Exceptional Collaboration. Happening at 6pm on Wednesday 4 December in Kingi Private, the 12-seat dinner which includes five courses and three glasses of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 champagne will set you back $375 per person but it'll definitely be worth it. 

Oravida Has Just Launched In New Zealand And We're Immediately Obsessed

Image credit: Oravida | Instagram

We never thought we'd wax lyrical about bottled water, but that was before we got our mitts on Oravida. Sourced in Otakiri from an ancient aquifer, Oravida is velvet smooth—twenty times softer than other leading bottled waters, in fact. Whether you're after a palette cleanser for your meal, a refresher mid-gym sesh, or an enlivening sip post-festivies, this is it. And as a (hella worthy) bonus, every part of the bottle is recyclable. Head to Farro and stock your fridge for summer. 

Fat Freddy's Drop Has Created A Chocolate Bar With Wellington Chocolate Factory

Image credit: Fat Freddy's Drop | supplied

Now you can have Fat Freddy's Drop and eat it too. A sweet celebration of their new album soul-heavy studio album SLO MO, the band's chocolate bar is a blend of passionfruit and coconut milk evoking balmy summer afternoons and Pacific connections. Oh, and it's vegan. 

Yes siree, this gorgeous treat is made with silky vegan coconut milk chocolate, plus fresh passionfruit pulp and toasted coconut. Grab a bar (or four) from Wellington Chocolate Factory and Moore Wilson, Farro in Auckland, plus any of Fat Freddy's SLO MO album release concerts around the motu or on their upcoming European and UK tour. 

Cinnabon Is Arriving In New Zealand This Week

Image credit: Cinnabon NZ | Instagram 

It's been almost 40 years in the making but finally all that hangry manifesting has resulted in Aotearoa's first ever Cinnabon store. Set to pop up in Westfield Newmarket on 9 November, you can expect all the iconic treats including the dreamy cinnamon-swirled, cream cheese-frosted Classic Roll, the Caramel PecanBon, ChocoBon, and MiniBon rolls. Stay tuned for more info.  

Get Your Fill Of Tokki's Birthday Canteen For Just $35

Image credit: Tokki | Instagram

Tokki has turned two this year, and to celebrate for the rest of the year in style Chef-owner Jase and his team are offering early diners a taster series of their signature dishes for 35. Swing by after work on Tuesday-Thursday between 5 and 5.30pm for modern Korean bites and wine, and seasonal snacks-of-the-day. Dessert PSA: Stay for their Melona S’mores. 

Snag An Invite To A Lavish 5-Course Dinner Party Club 

Image credit: Dinner Party Club | supplied

Lillius kitchen is set to be taken over by a Dinner Party Club for one week (October 31st-November 3rd) flexing a 5-course dinner party style set menu, complete with wine-pairings. Run by hospo OG Ben Walls—restaurant manager at Lillius—Ben is switching things up and moving into the kitchen to share his love of cooking for friends. Supported by his partner (a.k.a. culinary enthusiast and pop-up sous chef for the week) Annie, as well as Auckland hospitality, they’re bringing their Kiwi dinner favourites with a European twist. Tickets cost $95 per person. Vegetarian and gluten-free menus available. 

Chef Kia Is Leaving Ada After An Epic Māori Menu Legacy

Sip On The Full Rosé Fantasy This Summer With Alpha Domus

Image credit: Alpha Domus | supplied

Hawke's Bay-based and fully certified organic winery Alpha Domus has just dropped a summer sips game changer: their cult-favourite Beatrix Sparkling Rosé in a can, and a sustainable one at that.  A lower alcohol sister (8.9%) to the original Beatrix Sparkling Rosé, it's giving fresh, light, and fun—perfect for a cheeky sundowner, all sorts of festivities and glass-free celebrations alike. Cheers to that. 

Have Your Cheese And Eat It Too, Even If You're Dairy-Free

Image credit: BioCheese | supplied

Dairy intolerance used to mean you either had to forgo the cheese board completely or feel the fear and eat it anyway, committing yourself to dealing with the consequences later. Those days are gone. BioCheese has just launched six new cheeses so you can snack-happy without a second thought.

The range includes crumbly feta, cream cheese, sliced cheddar, cheddar shred, pizza shred, and a cheddar and cracker pack for on the go. Each is free from dairy, gluten, soya, lactose, palm oil and GMOs and is suitable for consumption during periods of faith-based fasting. Available at Woolworths nationwide. 

Coffee Supreme Is Giving Away A 10-Year Supply Of Coffee

Image credit: Coffee Supreme | Joel Kefali

Never run out of coffee again. Like, ever. Simply surrender your details to Coffee Supreme before 14 December and you'll be in the draw to win a 10-year supply of coffee (a worthy swap, we reckon). The lucky winner will stay happily caffeinated receiving 500g of their chosen coffee every fortnight for the next 10 years. Choose from their smooth and creamy Brazil Blend, their sweet and moreish Supreme Blend or their dark and strong Boxer Blend. This is not a drill. 

Slay The 3pm Slump With Ārepa's New Brain Drink

Image credit: Ārepa | supplied

If caffeine's not your buzz you might like to get your mitts on a bottle of Uplift, the newest offering by Ārepa. Packed full of L-theanine (the slow-release boost factor in matcha), ginseng and 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamins B5 and B6 which play a role energy production and mental performance, the pretty, pink-hued sparkling peach and ginger drink could be exactly what you need to power through your arvo. 

Sip On Something A Little Uncommon This Summer 

Image credit: The Uncommon | Instagram

Twiggy and Leonard are essential companions this summer whether you're festival-bound or heading to your mate's BBQ. Twiggy, a dry and blushing rosé, and Leonard, a crisp, refreshing sav blanc are a bronze medal award-winning duo created by The Uncommon co-founders Hannah Sweeney and Anna Campbell in collaboration with winemaker Digger Hennessy. 

Better still, The Uncommon reduces carbon emissions by using an entirely domestic supply chain, 100% recyclable cans and packaging made from board approved by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification, and is B Corp certification pending. Available nationwide from Woolworths, select New World, Pak n Save and Four Square stores. 

Gemmayze Street's Launching A Sunday Pop-Up Kebab Shop For Summer

Image credit: Gemmayze Street | Instagram

Love Gemmayze Street's kebabs? Now you can sink your teeth into them all summer long. Morphing from a one-day situation to a regular offering every Sunday from 3 November through to the end of the year, Gemmayze Street's pop-up Kebab Shop will be in full swing. Loaded humus, mixed grilled meats on saffron rice, baklava ice cream sandwiches and cocktails—it's all here. 

Treat Yourself This Halloween With Fankery's Spooky Snack Collection

Image credit: Fankery | Instagram

Flexing their signature flair for the creative, Fankery has embraced the spooky szn with three gorgeous limited edition treats: a black sesame raspberry ghost tart, a pumpkin fresh cream daifuku and a chilli choc mochi-filled cheesecake. Pre-order for delivery on 26 and 27 October or pick up from The Kitchen Collective in Glendene on Saturday between 11am and 11pm. 

Trick Or Treat On Edible Bats At Giapo

Image credit: Giapo | Instagram

For one week only, Giapo are getting their spook on with skull-shaped shortbread cookies, choc-coated Nutella rice krispie R.I.P. crosses, scary sugar monster eyes and intricate chocolate bat wings adorning their house-made ice cream cones. Pick your poison (or in this case, your edible ice-cream accessory) and watch your spooky creation come to life. 

La Zeppa's Doing $7 "Quick Sip" Cocktails And They're Absolutely Perfect

Image credit: La Zeppa | Instagram

Match your cocktail to your mood-of-the-moment with La Zeppa's brand new "Quick Sips". The teeny-tiny-tinis are just $7 a pop and come in four edits: mini negroni on the rocks, a gin-based 20th Cen-Teeny topped with a square of white chocolate, a peach and mango Snaquiri that's summer incarnate, and a tiny tropical cosmo. Better still, each have a full format sister cocktail which makes for the perfect chaser. 

Celebrate The Festival Of Lights With A Diwali Special By Doe Donuts

Image credit: Doe Donuts | website

Spiced sugar syrup-infused mascarpone cream, hard toffee shell, a sprinkling of pistachios and a touch of gold leaf combine in Diwali in donut form by Doe Donuts and we're swooning. Available from their Grey Lynn and Commercial Bay stores from 31 October through to 2 November but you might like to pre-order online first because these are sure to fly out the door. 

Roses Dining Room Has Announced Its Annual Bottle Of Vino 

Image credit: Roses Dining Room | supplied

Every year Roses Dining Room releases their very own bottle of wine and this year's edition is an orange wine made in collaboration with 15 Minute Bottles. The gorgeous tipple is marked with a photo taken by co-owner Karl Bayly of a peach rose in fellow co-owner and partner Ophelia's hand. In their words "Like everything we do the label is a moment of romance." Pull up a seat at Roses to try the new release or nab yourself a bottle for $32. 

Enter Your Clog Era And Score One Of The Best Brownies Of All Time

Image credit: The Sugar Dealer | supplied

We're not going to sugar-coat it—Crocs are a polarising footwear choice. But if there's anything we've learned over the years it's that sliding over to Team Crocs is inevitable (and you'll be lowkey stoked when it happens). So whether you're popping your Croc cherry or adding to your collection, the day to do it is 23 October a.k.a. Croc Day. Why? Because the Auckland and Christchurch Crocs stores will be giving customers a brownie from The Sugar Deal with each clog purchase. Slay.

Just be sure to get in early as brownie stocks are limited. Gluten-free options available. 

This Local Chocolatier May Have Just Broken The Internet With A Cookie Dough Croissant Chocolate Bar

Image credit: House Of Chocolate | supplied

Have we just stumbled upon the chocolate bar of our dreams? Quite possibly. House of Chocolate have just launched a Cookie Dough Croissant chocolate bar and it's wild. Consider sweet and salty house-made cookie dough enrobed in milk and gold chocolate and topped with crispy, buttery croissant flakes. And their crush video is next level.  One of these slick bricks will set you back a twenty but it's worth every cent. 

Prepare For Treats: Duck Island's Scooping Halloween And It Looks Mighty Fine 

Image credit: Duck Island Ice Cream | Instagram

Renowned for slaying on the themed treats front, Duck Island Ice Cream has done it again, this time with a spooky edit that's perfect for Halloween. Pictured above is their candied violet—a lilac ice cream situation infused with French candied violets ad violet white chocolate ganache. Then we've got caramel kettle corn featuring salty and sweet popcorn by Raglan Kettle Korn that's been double-coated in Duck Island's own buttery salty caramel. Finishing off the festivities is the return of liquorice shockolate rippled with black chocolate ganache and a vegan pumpkin spice. Treat yo'self. 

Breakfast Babes Has Just Announced A Limited-Edition Matcha Bar

Image credit: Breakfast Babes | website

Tauranga-based Breakfast Babes have joined forces with Matcha Wednesday to whip up a gorgeous green lil' thing that might just be the switch up your breakfast game needed. Dubbed Madam Matcha Bar, she's made with a matcha-infused macadamia biscuit base, cashew caramel cream and biscuit crumble (all of which is gluten-free and vegan, by the way). You can get your mitts on a box of five of these beauts from Breakfast Babes' website. 

Gemmayze Street's Pop-Up Kebab Shop Is Back For Just One Day

Image credit: Gemmayze Street | Instagram

St Kevins Arcade icon, Gemmayze Street, is bringing back their much-frothed pop-up Kebab Shop this Sunday 20 October. The menu includes loaded hummus with slow-roasted lamb shoulder, a mixed grill for two with all the favourites (think: chicken shish, lamb kafta, lamb rump shish, hummus, pickles, herb salad and saffron rice), Lebanese chicken rice, fries spiked with honey and za'atar and a gorgeous Ba'alewa ice cream sandwich with lemon and pistachio. All proceeds will be donated to aid in Lebanon. 

Super Charge Your Summer Adventures With Goju Wellness Shots Made Right Here In Aotearoa

Image credit: Goju | Harry Morris

Plans to tackle a gnarly trail this summer? Goju Wellness Shots might just be the literal tonic to keep you firing on all cylinders. The range—created by Takapuna-based siblings, Belle and Tom Hartles—includes their ginger shot wellness booster for digestion and immune support, turmeric shot and Mānuka ginger shots for immunity, a Supershot for body and mind and a detox for those moments when you went a little too hard and need a bit of recovery (we've all been there). 

Rooftop Darling HI-SO's Launching A Yakitori Clubhouse And You're Invited

Image credit: HI-SO | supplied

Your Sunday Sessions just evolved—enter a realm 16 floors up where mix-and-match yakitori skewers are paired with Zenkuro sake-infused cocktails. Expect a humming yakitori station with wagyu bavette, confit pork belly, kransky sausage, Mt Cook Alpine salmon, miso eggplant, corn on the cob and more, plus a sashimi bar, Japanese sides a-plenty and tunes to sip to. Yakitori Sundays are available from 11.30am 'til 3pm every Sunday starting 20 October. Book via HI-SO's website; walk-ins welcome. 

Hightail It To Daily Bread, They're Slinging Limited Edition Black Forest Croissants

Image credit: My Food Bag | supplied

My Food Bag has just announced this year's Christmas pavlova flavour and it's a festive black forest chocolate. Do future you a solid and order yours now then make a beeline for Daily Bread because they've whipped up a croissant inspired by the pavlova. (Dreams do come true.) This golden, flaky sensation is filled with black cherry jam and mascarpone Chantilly cream and dipped in dark chocolate and it can be yours from now until 21 October. Not sure if it's the real deal, we ripped two apart to investigate—can confirm, it's an 11/10. 

Filipino Soft Serve Dreams Are Here In Auckland

Image credit: Miguelitos Soft Serve NZ | Instagram

Ice cream season is here. With more ice cream stores than you can shake a sprinkle shaker at, Aucklanders are spoilt for choice. Try something new and make a beeline for Miguelito’s, where you’ll find delicious Filipino flavoured ice-creams. From the branch of the super successful store in Sydney, they’re bringing a taste of the Phillipines to Tāmaki with creamy soft serve in flavours like ube a.k.a purple yam with Biscoff (our jam), as well as the Milo Dino to relive your childhood days eating milo by the spoonful. For the more adventurous ice cream eaters, try their avocado soft serve. Their recipes have been designed with reduced sugar, Halal-certified, and there are dairy-free options too. Round up the crew for a guilt-free and refreshing post-dinner treat. 

Wrap Your Mouth Around A Limited Edition Wellington Chocolate Factory x Karen Walker Sweet Treat

One of the most highly-anticipated events in every chocoholic's calendar is the drop of Wellington Chocolate Factory X Karen Walker's annual collab. This year over 130 kilos of hazelnuts, harvested from Uncle Joe's South Island orchards, has been combined with the highest quality ethical 48% cocoa chocolate to create Raspberry & Rose Milk Chocolate Hazelnuts. 

Grab yourself a box (or ten) from Karen Walker stores, Wellington Chocolate Factory, and selected retailers including Moore Wilsons and Farro Fresh. You might just score yourself a year's worth of chocolate and wouldn't that be dreamy. 

Trade Your Board Game Currency For K-Fry

Image credit: KFC | Instagram

Raid your flat's board game stash, stat. On Tuesday 8 October you can swap Monopoly dollars (or any board game cash) for KFC. Yes siree, from 10am 'til 4pm hungry punters can get their mitts on two Secret Recipe Chicken and fries, two Hot & Crispy Boneless and fries or six Chicken Nuggets and fries and it won't cost them a dime. Not a real one, anyway. 

Pinkies Up, Park Hyatt Has An Exquisite High Tea With Louis Roederer Champagne

Image credit: Park Hyatt | supplied

Book into Park Hyatt's Living Room and enjoy a playful Spring High Tea where every taste is contemporary and the tea is delectably punchy. Magicked into existence by Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat, the bite-sized dishes come in waves, with ample time to fill your tea pot in between. (We'd recommend upgrading to the champagne, too—it's definitely the occasion for it.) Tastes include crayfish, yuzu, furikake, saffron aioli, hot smoked salmon, pineapple, earl grey, burnt vanilla, kaffir lime, and more. Available Thursday through Sunday from 19 September to 24 November. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and kids menus available on request. 

Get Some New Pals

Image credit: Pals | supplied

We're not joking. When Pals pulled The Pink One and The Yellow One it caused public outcry (RIP) but as of 3 October we can all stop crying over spilled spirits and step into a new era of Pals instead. Introducing The New Pink One, a triple distilled vodka-based pink lemon and soda, and (because Pals doesn't do anything by halves) The New Yellow One, a triple distilled vodka-based pineapple, lime and soda. 

The new pair of Pals are flavoured naturally and remain gluten-free and vegan, and are available in zero alcohol edits and can be purchased from liquor stores, selected on-premise venues, summer festivals and selected entertainment venues around the motu. Cheers to that. 

Boring Oat Milk Just Announced A Juicy Summer Special

Image credit: Picky | supplied

It's going to be a very juicy summer if Boring Oat Milk has anything to do with it. A reimagining of their sister brand, The Apple Press, Picky is a range of six juices and four smoothies freshly pressed in the Hawke's Bay (that's right, this bevvy's concentrate-free), coming to a picnic basket near you. Available from supermarkets across the motu, Picky flavours range from apple, lemon, mānuka honey and ginger to feijoa and spirulina. 

Fort Greene Has Built A Pastry Room And It's Everything

Just when we thought our favourite bakery on Karangahape Road couldn’t get any better, Fort Greene has done it again with a brand spankin' new pastry room. This humidity-controlled space makes it easier for the team to work their magic, meaning their already amazing pastries will be even better than ever. Say what?!

But wait, there’s more—Fort Greene is launching a monthly specials pastry box. Think: a Biscoff speculoos cruffin; a black forest croissant stuffed with dark chocolate mousse, chocolate cookie and cherries; a ham and cheese croissant; and their utterly moreish lemon meringue cube croissant. Nab a box of these goodies from their website any day of the week for just $47.50 or snag them individually in-store on weekends.

Esther Has A Secret Menu And This Is How You Order It

Image credit: Esther | supplied

Dine at Esther from 3-13 October and utter the words "I'll have the Barossa, thanks" to your waiter to unlock a secret three-course feast of chef's favourites. While we can't disclose the exact menu here (it's that secret), know that it can be yours for $69 per person and includes a bottle of St Hugo Shiraz to share between two. Legit. 

Spread The Word: Neat Cakes Is Hopping Across The Ditch

Image credit: Neat Cakes | Instagram

Jack Orsbourn is taking their bold plant-based creations across to Melbourne in a world-first Neat Cakes international pop-up. On Saturday 12 October, Melburnians will be able to get their mitts on a solid haul of vegan cakes, cookies, ginger kisses and the iconic Bruce Cake Tub in a one-off bake sale at Co. Bake Shop. The sale will run from 9am 'til sold out; gluten-free options available. 

For those keen to take a punt whipping up their own showstopping creation, Jack will be hosting a vintage cake decorating masterclass, too, from 12.30pm 'til 3pm. Attendees will be able to flex their creativity on a 6" heart-shaped vegan chocolate cake guided by Jack. 

Learn How To Make Dumplings With The Queen

Image credit: House Of Dumplings | Instagram

Chances are not only will you have heard of the award-winning House Of Dumplings, you've likely housed a bunch of them (sorry not sorry). On 15 October the Hong Kong New Zealand Business Association will be hosting an East Meets West: Food And Wine Pairing Evening at Ellen Melville Centre - Pioneer Women's Hall. Snag a ticket to get taken through your dumpling-making paces with the Queen of Dumplings herself, Vicky Ha, plus wine pairings by Central Otago wine specialist, Amisfield. Tickets include a goodie bag from Lee Yum Kee and House of Dumplings. Reooow. 

Score Free Coffee From A Spiffy New Coffee Window

Image credit: QT Auckland | supplied

International Coffee Day is on the horizon (1 October to be exact) and QT Auckland is ringing in the caffeinated festivities by unveiling their brand new coffee window, Esther Hatch. Set to sling black gold all day erry day, you'll be able to get your fix of coffees, pizzetta sandwiches, and fresh pastries from 7am-3pm. Swing by on the 1st between 11am and 2pm to snatch a free coffee. 

Wrap Your Mouth Around Hilton Auckland's Spring Brunch Series

Image credit: Hilton Auckland | supplied

Every Sunday through October Hilton Auckland's serving one helluva spread. For just $68 per person you can get your fill of crab cake eggs bene with maple-spiked hollandaise, a classic battered fish burg' or a chicken kathi paratha roll plus access to a stunning breakfast buffet bar. Think: soba noodle salad, artisan cold cuts, breakfast pastries, herby goat cheese tarts, and a bunch of delectable desserts. 

Wash down your feast with beverage specials like $7 mimosas, $10 Aperol spritz and $10 Malfi arancia or limone G&T, or chuck down a $25 to make it bottomless. Vegetarian and vegan menus available on request. Book into Hilton's Spring Brunch Buffet here. And if your October's already jam-packed, or you're outside of Auckland, you might like to make for Taupō—they're also doing weekly Sunday brunches from 26 October through to the end of November. 

Take Your Favourite Roses Vino Home With You 

Image credit: Roses Dining Room | supplied

One of the most atmospheric spots on Karangahape Road (and that's saying something) Roses Dining Room has just secured its off-license and the savings are jaw-dropping. With an ever-changing wine list featuring low-intervention wines by independent makers if you fall in love with a bottle while dining or you're in need of a gift, you can get your mitts on a takeaway for 40% off the dine-in price. In this economy? Hell yes. 

Smash A Burg’ With A Flute Of Veuve

Image credit: Parasol & Swing | supplied

In 1964 The New Yorker did something totally wild—it matched a burger with a bottle of Veuve Cliquot. And you know what? It proved one helluva pairing. From 25 September to 23 October you can revel in exactly that. Enter: The Veuve Clicquot Burger Challenge where chefs around the motu—including Parasol & Swing in Auckland, Huxley's in Wellington, Mr Brightside in Christchurch, and SUNDAYS in Christchurch. Check out the full lineup here, get amongst, then vote for your fave. 

Glean All The Behind-The-Scenes Intel With A Brand New Food Truck Podcast

Image credit: The Food Truck Podcast | supplied

It's no secret we're a little bit obsessed with the local street food scene. From hot, golden fries dunked in satay mayo to fistfuls of tacos and beyond, the scene is very strong indeed. And it's about to get even better. On 26 September, the first episode of The Food Truck Podcast drops. It's created by food truck veteran, entrepreneur and original co-founder of The Food Truck Collective, Maggie Gray, and is sponsored by Culley's so you know it's going to be bangin'. 

Tune in to get behind-the-scenes intel from all your street food favourites including Carmel (Carmel Israeli Street Food), Max (The White Lady), Natalia (Natalia's Food Journey), Tim (Double Dutch Fries/The Food Truck Collective), Sarah and Otis (The Lucky Taco), Brian (Hash and Smash), Matilda (Butter Baby), Elliot (The Roaming Flamingo/Masterchef finalist), and more. 

Wrap Your Mouth Around A Sustainability-Savvy Pop-Up Japanese Brunch

Image credit: NOWA | Website

Chef Quentin Ville-Renon is bringing his closed loop pop-up restaurant NOWA to Wellington this Sunday (29 September) with a sustainable low-waste Japanese-inspired brunch. Think super-seasonal and super aware of environmental impact bites like delicious Japanese pickles, porcini XO, and okonomiyaki (but not as you know it—with a foraged twist). Having popped up at iconic Wellington spots like Graze Wine Bar, Glou Glou, Margot and Plonk (plus Roses Dining Room in Tāmaki), he’s taking his favourite meal of the day (breakfast) to creative culinary event space Whisky & Wood for a clean, stripped back and zen start to the day. Grab your last minute seat at the table here. 

Snag A Luxe Feed For Half Price

Image credit: First Table | Facebook

First Table's one helluva hack and this year the crew are celebrating their tenth birthday. Created in Queenstown a decade ago, First Table has grown massively with over 2,000 restaurant partners across Aotearoa, Australia, and the U.K and, during that time, has seated nearly five million people at off-peak times. Talk about keeping hanger at bay. 

For the uninitiated, First Table is an app where hungry punters book either the first or last table of the day and score 50% off the bill. Restaurants like Paris Butter, The Grove, and Kingi. Hot damn. 

Manifest An Early Summer With Food Of The Sun 

Image credit: Esther | supplied

If you're still a bit salty from the unsolicited European summer content splashed all over your feed (and even if you're not), you ought to book into Esther's Food of the Sun. A six-part lavish lunch series spanning Capri, Monaco, Casablanca, Santorini, Barcelona and Lisbon, it's all the feasting without the hefty plane ticket. Each lunch is priced for $85 and includes a cocktail on arrival and a themed feasting menu.

By the way, for each Food of the Sun event you attend you'll score a stamp in your Food of the Sun passport. Collect three stamps and you'll score a $50 Esther voucher. Get all six and you'll receive a night in a Delux Corner Room at QT Auckland, for free. 

Book Yourself One Of Tāmaki's Most Iconic Food Trucks 

Image credit: The Food Truck Collective | Facebook

Whether you're overachieving on sorting the work Christmas party early (we salute you), planning a wedding, birthday, anniversary, or next-level shindig with mates, kai is key especially when it comes in the form of a bike loaded with creme brulee.  As luck would have it, The Food Truck Collective has just launched a brand new booking system making this not only possible, but easy as, well, pie.

Hassle-free planning with a side of the world's best fries (or gyoza, or tacos, or pasta, or gelato, or basically whatever your heart desires). Uhh, sign us up. Simply jump on to their website, hit the "book a food truck" button, and follow the on-screen prompts.  Or check out this swish lil' vid. 

QT Wellington's Doing A Dreamy Champagne Tasting And Other Gorgeous Things

Image credit: QT Wellington | supplied

WOW aficionados will need no reminding that in Wellington, 25 September-13 October is World Of Wearable Arts season. This year the theme is Dream Awake and QT Wellington's embracing it with a trio of gorgeous food-(and art)centric events.

Kicking off the lineup is an Evening Dreams Dinner High Tea (consider it all the usual glamour of a high tea but by moonlight) available Wednesday to Saturday through WOW. They're hosting a champagne tasting, too, that they're calling Head in the Clouds which can involve anything from a Mumm tasting flight to Mumm bubbles topped with candyfloss (just ask for a "Fluff It Up). The final event is a Shakespeare-inspired Midsummer High Tea at Hippopotamus Restaurant in collaboration with Royal New Zealand Ballet.

Hell Is About To Release A Hāngī Pizza

Image credit: Hell Pizza | supplied

Hāngī Master Rewi Spraggon (Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Maniapoto) has travelled across the world to make Hāngī accessible to everyone with custom hāngī pits, events and catering. His latest project is in collaboration with Hells Pizza, launching the world’s first hāngī pizza for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori—Hell’s "Unearthed". Available across the motu from 20 September, the Hāngī pizza will have shaved pork belly, kumara, kawakawa-pumpkin purée and the essential smokey Hāngī stuffing. Definitely a pizza flavour to kōrero about.

An Onigiri Pop-Up Bar Just Landed In Wellington

Image credit: The Bento Bar | supplied

Mana Toyoda a.k.a. The Bento Bar is running an onigiri pop-up bar on Cuba Street for two weeks, after a successful sell-out at the Japan Festival in Wellington. All onigiri are priced at $5 and are the perfect healthy to-go snack with a side of miso soup of the day. Sukiyaki beef, Tori chicken and candied kūmara are some of the rotating flavours of the day. Inspired by her childhood school meals and passionate about providing healthier alternatives to local schools, Maya is bringing the lunchbox revolution to a tuckshop near you.

A Pizza Hut Buffet Is Coming To City Works Depot

Image credit: Pizza Hut | supplied

Update: If you missed out on tickets, all is not lost—you could still win a double buffet pass, plus flights from any domestic NZ airport and accommodation. Enter on Pizza Hut's Instagram, comp closes at 5pm on Sunday 22 September. 

Back in the 90s, there wasn't a birthday invitation more highly coveted than the one where partygoers could launch themselves—mouth-first—at a Pizza Hut buffet. For the uninitiated, that was pizza by the slice, a salad bar (largely ignored, if we're being honest), and soft drinks on tap. But the panacea was the dessert bar: soft-serve icecream, raspberry jelly, chocolate mousse, hot fudge sauce, and more toppings than you could shake your crusts at and you can be sure as hell we did exactly that. 

For three glorious days—from 26-29 September—Pizza Hut's buffet will be more than just a nostalgic daydream. To celebrate their 50th anniversary, The Hut will be popping up at Norma Taps in City Works Depot with ticketed lunch and dinner sessions but the seats are very, very limited and start at $30 with proceeds being donated to Hato Hone St John. 

The first lot of tickets for The Hut dropped earlier in the week and immediately sold out (yep, pizza sells faster than hotcakes) but there are whispers that more will be announced later this week. Book here.

A Paella Pop-Up Is Coming To Takutai Square

Image credit: Britomart | Facebook

On Friday 20 September, founder of Movida, Frank Camorra, will be slingin' paella by the plateful from 12pm 'til the paella pan's been scraped clean. Get amongst for just $12 a pop and nab a free Spanish-style Seedlip non-alcoholic cocktail from the Britomart Cocktail Trolley while you're at it. Sad desk lunch, who?

Pic's Te Reo Māori Peanut Butter Label Is Back

Image credit: Pic's | supplied

In celebration of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, Pic's has brought back its Pata Pīnati Kakukaku / Crunchy label for a limited time. Made with 99.5% hi oleic crunchy peanuts and sea salt, it's a pretty worthy contender for your toast (at breakfast or otherwise). Snag yourself a jar here or at their Whakatū Nelson store for just $7.50. Reoooow.

SkyCity Has Just Announced A Tantalizing Haul Of Exclusive Set Menus

Image credit: SkyCity | supplied

Enter: Served, an entire month of feasting. Showcasing cuisines from around the world, Served runs from 1-31 October and features five massive food-centric events, kicking off with the festival launch where not one but four famed chefs—Michael Meredith, Nic Watt, Al Brown, and Sid Sahrawat—will whip you up a glorious feast in a collab with Four Pillars Gin. Other offerings include champagne-matched Foujita Nights at MASU, a dumpling masterclass at Huami, Metita's first birthday celebrations, and Diwali at Cassia. 

Then there's the month-long set menu specials where everything clocks in at the exceedingly reasonable pricepoint of $50-55 (and that's sometimes for two people). Head to Metita, The Grill, MASU, Cassia, Depot, Fed Deli, Huami, SkyBar, or Andy's to get amongst. An added bonus? Parking's free at SkyCity through September and October—score. Get the full lineup here.

Wine And Dine Italian Style At This Boujee Brunch In Arrowtown 

Image credit: Aosta | Facebook

If you’re after culinary masterpiece after masterpiece, then head to Arrowtown and become acquainted with Aosta, an Italian restaurant pulling out all the stops. Their dinner menu is exquisite, but we all know brunch is where it’s at and lucky for you, they’ve launched a special brunch menu filled to the brim with Italian delights. Think fluffy chilli scramble served with goat's cheese and carta de musica—a super crispy thin cracker known as ‘sheet music' in Italian.

For a classic brunch vibe, order the eggs bene served on potato rosti, with crispy pancetta, sauteed kale and carbonara sauce. Yes, carbonara for breakfast is totally a thing, and it’s as incredible as it sounds. And for the grand finale, you’ve got to try their buttermilk crespelle bursting with lemon curd, topped with golden kiwifruit and meringue. It’s simply delizioso. All that’s left to be said is, bon appétit. 

Here's Where To Get Your Mitts On Mooncakes This Mid-Autumn Festival

Image credit: Fankery | Facebook

Mark your calendars, 17 September is Mid-Autumn Festival (also known as Mooncake Festival), an auspicious Chinese celebration. The best way to celebrate? Gifting loved ones mooncakes. Luckily for us Asian-fusion bakery, Fankery, is doing a pop-up at Spacefor in Britomart from the 11th to the 15th of September, 10am 'til 3pm (or until sold out). Swing by for mooncakes, their signature mochi-filled cheesecakes, cookies, tarts, drinks, and more. 

Also whipping up mooncakes—both traditional, vegan, and "snow skin" varieties (which have no added gluten)—is Folds Patisserie. Traditional flavours include lotus, red bean, sesame, taro, pandan, honey and pistachio; most can be made vegan; and snow skin mooncakes come in coffee chocolate, sesame walnut, taro coconut, or matcha red bean varieties. Pre-order singles, four-packs or six-packs online for pick up or delivery.

Flaky Croissant Breakfast Sandos? Say Less.

Image credit: Baby G Burger | supplied

Mor and Baby G Burger have teamed up to bring us a bangin' breakfast sando. The limited-edition creation features a golden Mor croissant stuffed with a custom Jimmy Dean-style breakfast sausage (from the folks at Grey Lynn Butchers), plus cheese, scrambled eggs, chives, roast garlic aioli, and pickled red onion. plus egg, cheese, and pickled onions. But it's only available from 10am 'til 12pm this Sunday so set your alarm and get ready to slam this bad boy. 

Fankery Has Teamed Up With Roku Gin And The Result Is Immaculate

Image credit: Roku Gin X Fankery

To celebrate the release of their limited-edition Sakura Bloom gin, Roku Gin has joined forces with Fankery to create Sakura in Bloom, a collab that's almost too good to eat. Taking place at The Village in Herne Bay on October 12 and 13, punters will get to sink their teeth into a matcha yuzu tart, Sakura cheesecake with mochi, and Sakura tiramisu—all created by Fankery founder, Cathy Fan—while sipping on three top tier Roku cocktail pairings. Gorgeous. 

Krispy Kreme Is Dishing Free Doughnuts For Tradies 

Image credit: Krispy Kreme | supplied

Hell, we love a tradie, and on Friday 20 September (which just so happens to be National Tradie Day) tradies are set to be getting a whole lot of love... in doughnut form. Krispy Kreme is giving away a free Original Glazed Donut for every tradie who rocks up at a Krispy Kreme store in their tradie gear, plus $12 OG dozens for tradies to share with their teams. Smoko just got a whole lot better.

We've Got The Scoop On Aotearoa's Best Ice Cream

Image credit: Little 'Lato | Facebook

Ice cream and gelato producers from across the motu came together to celebrate their wins at the annual ice cream awards held in Tāmaki last week. Twenty ice cream and gelato judges tasted 233 ice creams with porridge and brown sugar, avocado and smoked salmon cream cheese among some of the adventurous flavours judged. Over 169 medals were awarded, with Little ‘Lato’s dairy free/vegan Mango Lassi scooping up Supreme Boutique Champion.

The Supreme Ice Cream Champion went to New Zealand Natural Ice Cream for their Milk Chocolate ice cream. Head Judge Geoff Scott described it like a kid’s first milk chocolate bar experience—full of “chocolatey richness” and “indulgent creamy texture.” Other category winners included Much Moore, Formula Foods, Patagonia Chocolates, Lewis Road Creamery, Charlie’s Gelato, and Sensient Technologies. Check out the full scoop on winning categories here.  

Negroni Week's Kicking Off Early At QT

Image credit: QT | supplied

Negroni Week is on the horizon (16-22 September to be exact) but QT Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are kicking off the celebrations early with a cheeky lil' collab with Campari called Bitter & Twisted. Head to Rooftop at QT in Auckland between 4 September and 21 October to sip pretty on three different negroni iterations—trust us, for just $32, you'll want a flight—or Campari creations. Additionally, QT Queenstown is sporting a Negroni Hour where you'll be able to snap up $14 negronis from 3-5pm daily and $2 oysters on Fridays and Saturdays. 

When Negroni Week hits it'll bring with it QT Auckland's very own Negroni Hour with $14 classic negronis from 4-5pm and Sunday session specials including $15 classic negronis and $15 pizzettas in your choice of either spiced beef, guindilla chilli pepper, garlic toum and dill or ricotta, zucchini, sundried olives, nduja, and fior di latte.  Cheers to that. 

Onslow's Art-Infused Saturdays

Image credit: Onslow | website

Onslow’s Saturday Arts Lunch is here to give your weekend feed a serious glow-up. Kick things off with some tantalising treats—don't skip the Bluff pāua sausage rolls—then dive into your choice of mains that will make your tastebuds sing, from Big Glory Bay salmon pastrami, Lake Ōhau wagyu sirloin, to poached market fish with salmon beurre blanc. Round things off on a sweet notes with sticky date mandolins or chocolate soufflé.

While you’re enjoying lunch, feast your eyes on the stunning "HUIA" collection by artist Anton Forde. Think intricate carvings made from pounamu, basalt and more with each piece paying tribute to the natural world and our deep connection to it. This isn't your average lunch, it's a full-on cultural experience that'll leave you feeling as cultured as the dishes themselves. 

Tables are filling fast, so get your crew together and lock in your spot for a lunch that serves art, history, and fun in equal measure. For just $65, that’s a whole lotta bang for your buck.

Ebisu's Doing Bottomless Sushi

Image credit: Savor | Website

Saturdays we eat sushi, and lots of it. OKI NO Sushi at Ebisu is serving all-you-can-eat sushi every Saturday arvo (11am 'til 4pm) until 28 September. For $85 (kids are half-price), you can wolf down sushi rolls plus sashimi, nigiri, Japanese-style salads and poached prawn cocktails, and your choice of Ebisu classics as a main. Better still, there's a soba noodle station (*swoon*) and drink upgrades if you're feeling fancy. Bookings essential. 

Drop This Secret Code Word At Krispy Creme On 5 September For A Free Doughnut

Pssst, Krispy Kreme is turning six and if you walk into any of their stores on 5 September and say the secret code words "Hip Hip" you'll score a free Original Glazed doughnut. Better still, if someone else in the store shouts "Hooray!" in response, you'll score a free four-pack of Original Glazed doughnuts. Legit. 

The Best Burger In Wellington Has Been Crowned

Image credit: One80 Restaurant | Instagram

One80 Restaurant's inventive Nawabi Galouti burger (pictured) is the supreme winner of Burger Wellington x Visa Wellington On A Plate. The burger, created by Chef Chetan Pangam and his team, consists of a galouti lamb pattie, pulled lamb shoulder filo cigar, lamb snow, ghee, coriander, Zany Zeus mint labneh and chicory in an insane croissant bun whipped up by The Clareville Bakery. All this, served with gunpowder fries.

Better still, this is the second year the team has taken out the comp so to celebrate they're bringing back last year's winning burg and putting it head-to-head (or should we say bun-to-bun) with this year's winner in a Burger Off from 11-25 September. And on 27 September, Chef Chetan Pangam will make 180 of the winning burgers as voted by you in 180 minutes. Hot damn. 

Rosé All Day Has Undergone A Spiffy Rebrand And We're Swooning

Image credit: Māwhero | supplied

If you're anything like us, you love a cheeky glass (or three) of boozy pink. By extension, there's a special spot on our calendar for Rosé All Day—the annual festival dedicated to all things rosé. Just when we though things couldn't get better, the festival crew have announced a rebrand and we couldn't be more stoked. Newly-minted as Māwhero (the Māori word for the colour pink), we're more in love than ever before. 

This year's festival is packing more than 40 wine tastings with kai by Glou Glou and freshly-spun beats to sip to thanks to DJ Takas. Raise a glass to the rebrand and snag yourself a ticket to the first ever Māwhero which is set to take place on 16 November at The Exchange Building Atrium in Wellington. 

Amano's Slingin' Half Price Coffee All Month

Image credit: Amano | Instagram

If you've ventured anywhere near Britomart this week you'll have seen the queues as caffeine aficionados assemble. And that'd be because you can score half-price Allpress coffee from the Amano Bakery. Praise be—our silent screams (yawns, obvs) for coffee have been answered. Wrap your mitts around this half-price lovelies Monday through Friday until the end of the Savor Food Fest on 27 September. 

Bossi's Live Streaming To Raise Funds For Daffodil Day

Image credit: Bossi | supplied

When we heard Bossi's going to be on IG Live this Friday (30 August) to raise funds for Daffodil Day it hit us right in the feels, especially when we learned Bossi was inspired by owner Jenna Carter's Nonna who passed away from cancer. "We understand the financial challenges many are facing right now, so we're not asking for donations," explains Executive Chef, Shaun Dowling. "Instead, we're inviting people to join us online and engage during the Live. For every engagement we receive, we'll make a donation on their behalf to this meaningful cause." For every person who tunes in and engages, Bossi will donate $2 to Daffodil Day up to $5k. Catch the Live here from 6pm. 

KFC Just Announced A Special Limited Edition Burger

Image credit: KFC | supplied

There's a brand new burger in town and it's sporting pickles. A highly controversial topic, putting pickles on burgers (or wrenching the tiny cucs out of your burger in one deft flick of the wrist) has polarised diners but according to a poll conducted by KFC, 94% of the 1,200 Kiwis surveyed think pickles on burgers are exactly where they're supposed to be. Following suit, then, KFC's new Sanders' Special is a Zinger or Original Recipe chicken fillet with crunchy pickles, a slice of cheese, fresh lettuce, mayo, and the Colonel's Special Sauce on a brioche bun. The limited edition burg is available in stores from 27 August but it's here for a good time, not a long time so if this sounds like a bit of you, you know what you've got to do. 

Taupō's Getting A Massive 10-Day Food Festival

Image credit: Bistro Lago | Facebook

28 September marks the launch of Treats of Taupō, a brand new food festival packed with 24 food-centric events over 10 days designed to showcase local brewers, distilleries, growers, farmers, organic meat and honey producers, chocolatiers, and chefs. From The Treat Degustation Tour where punters will get to sink their teeth into dishes at five iconic Taupō eateries to an ever-changing Market Takeover showcasing the culinary flare of different types of cuisine, a honey-themed high tea, a coffee roasting and barista skills workshop, and a cupcake-decorating contest for kids. 

The festival, created by Fleru Wolstenholme, will run from 28 September to 6 October. Check out the full programme here. 

Fairy Bread Doughnuts? Um, Yes Plz

Image credit: Krispy Kreme | supplied

Krispy Kreme's turning six this year and to celebrate they've turned everybody's favourite birthday party treat (fairy bread, of course!) into an indulgent doughnut. Get your mitts (and your mouth) on this limited edition beauty from 27 August, plus their signature party flavours choc brownie, cookie dough, and strawberry sprinkles.    

It's Official: We Know Where To Find The Best Toastie In Aotearoa

Image credit: The Great Toastie Takeover 2024 | supplied

It's no secret that here in Aotearoa we're pretty serious about our sandwiches, even more so when it comes to top-tier toasties. Every year The Great Toastie Takeover is fiercely-contested and today a winner has been crowned. It's official: if you want the tastiest toastie in all the land, jump in your car and make a beeline for just outside Rotorua. This year the prestigious title has been awarded to Chef Rich Johns of Okere Falls Store, Cafe & Craft Beer Garden for his gold standard toastie dubbed 'Figgy In The Middle'. 

The toastie left the 169 other entries in its crumbs, winning the judges over with a combination of dill pickle cheesecake whip, Swiss cheese, sliced figs, Vandy's streaky bacon, toasted walnuts, rocket, McClure's pickles, blue cheese, and a drizzle of chilli honey. All this sandwiched between golden toasted slices of buttered Pantry D'or's spelt sourdough and topped with grated cheese. The prized toastie will be available at Okere Falls Store for the next couple of months. 

Wen & Yen Have Released A Limited Edition Doughnut Series For Father's Day

Image credit: Wen & Yen | supplied

One of our favourite doughnut-slingers, Wen & Yen, have just dropped a decadent limited edition doughnut series for Father's Day: the long boi. Available almost exclusively on pre-order for pick up at their Rosedale store on 31 August and 1 September,  each box comes with a trio of fresh, spongey long bois in cookies and cream, salted caramel and cream with almond brittle, and raspberry and cream flavours.

Better still, this release is available in regular, no added gluten, and no added gluten X vegan options so no dad has to miss out. While some long bois will be available for purchase on the day it's best to pre-order at least three days in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Fat Puku's Is Giving Away 100 Burgers This Saturday

Image credit: Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers | Alice Rich

Their smashed burgers changed the burg' game when Fat Puku's opened up top of Queen Street, and now they're shaking things up again with a second premise, and this one's a stunning hue of marshmallow pink. Tucked in at Shop 1, 12 Jellicoe Street (beside the Auckland Fish Market), you'll find the same tastebud-tantalising smashies, frosted skinnies, boozy shakes and more, in an all-new, summer-ready set up.

The new Wynyard Quarter digs officially opens this Saturday at 12pm and to celebrate Fat Puku's is giving away 100 Chuck Norris Oklahoma smash burgers. That's an onion smashed party, double cheese, and punchy Habanero mustard slapped between two glorious buns. Did somebody say will camp out for a free burger?! Oh wait, that was us. 

Parasol & Swing Has Whipped Up A Cocktail Straight Out Of A Fairytale

Image credit: Parasol & Swing | Alice Rich

Rooftop darling, Parasol & Swing, has whipped up a stunning cocktail that you'll want to summon, stat.  Aptly named Rose Tinted Glasses, the blend of vodka, strawberry, prosecco cordial, Aperol, rose, coconut, vermouth, and clarified whey, which appears in a gorgeous rose-shaped glass, really does make life that much sweeter. 

Part of their 'For The Gram' collection, which includes the fruity rum, sherry, and cognac Foreign Fortunes served in a tiki glass, and a trippy blanco tequila spiked mushroom named The Bikini Atoll, all three whimsical cocktails taste even better than they look and should go straight to the top of your Must Sip List. Available before 10pm. 

Lucky 8 Is Turning Three And They're Celebrating With A Mind-Blowing 25 New Dishes

Image credit: Lucky 8 | Facebook

It's hard to imagine a time before the neon-lit speakeasy that is Lucky 8 graced Ponsonby (and our bellies) but on 13 August they turn three and they've pulled out all the stops with a mammoth new menu alongside the long-standing cult-favourites like Hao's Chilli Chicken. 

From spicy pork and white bean hummus-stuffed cucumber boats and vibrant cocktails, to spinach cured spiced mushrooms, slow cooked poor belly with bao buns, and vegan massman curry, and that's barely scratching the surface of this epic feast. Whatever you do, be sure to keep a flower mango pudding-shaped space for dessert. It's top-tier. 

Abandoned Taproom Is Serving A Roadkill Burger Impaled By A Pork Rib

Image credit: Abandoned Taproom | supplied

One of the most hotly-anticipated events in Wellington's culinary calendar, Burger Wellington, is back and punters are readying themselves (and their plates) for some of the most mind-blowingly creative things to have ever been slapped between two buns.

Enter: Petone's Abandoned Taproom who have knocked the brief out of the park with their Roadkill Burger (it even has tire-burn marks). While the burger doesn't, in fact, feature anything scraped from the side of the motorway—which, to be honest, is a relief—it does feature braised pork belly and chorizo patty, kimchi, pickled red onions, chipotle, red pepper aioli, and American cheese. The clincher? The whole burger's impaled with a pork spare rib. Holy [*redacted*].

R.I.P. Madame George

Image credit: Madame George | Facebook

We were devastated when Pablo Arrasco Paz announced the end of long-standing Karangahape Road gem,  Madame George. After eight vibrant years of Pisco Sours and Peruvian eats, the adored restaurant's shutdown is the latest in a sea of local closures (including SPQR). It's a sobering reminder of the gruelling reality of just how hard it is for hospitality to stay afloat in the current financially-tumultuous climate.

One Toastie To Rule Them All

Image credit: BEERS | supplied

The battle is on for the title of Supreme Winner of The Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover for 2024 with the competition already being chomped down from 170 entries to just 14 finalists. The winner will be announced on 21 August which means there are just 16 days to eat 'em all. 

Finalists will be judged on presentation, effectiveness of preparation technique, eatability, taste, innovation, and originality with the supreme winner scoring themselves a year's worth of McClure's Pickles, a custom Rikki Berger trophy, and serious bragging rights. 

Broke Boy Taco’s Slingin’ Limited Edition Chili For Free

Image credit: Wattie's | supplied

On Wednesday 7 August Broke Boy Taco will be giving away 300 serves of piping hot limited edition COWBOY CHILI to mark the launch of Wattie’s new range of UnBeanLievable Flavoured Beans. Punters will be able to wrangle the spicy lil’ collab from Broke Boy Taco’s new digs from 7-9 August. Wattie’s UnBeanLievable range, which comes in caramelised onion, peri-peri, and taco iterations, is available to shop at Woolworths, Pak’n’Save, and New World around the motu from 7 August onwards.

Mexico's Added Four New Margaritas To Their Menu And That's Just A Start

Image credit: Mexico | supplied

Mexico Britomart has had a major glow-up. Their flagship Britomart store is a totally new experience and their winter menu—complete with four brand new margarita flavours including tamarind and orange, pineapple and ginger, peach passionfruit, and berry and prickly pear (love)—is very plate-worthy indeed. 

Menu highlights include the pork adobo chimichangas with turmeric daikon, charred corn sopes in chipotle butter with frijoles (that's Spanish for beans and yes, that was a flex), and their chilli salt-spiked polenta fritas with garlic mojo dipping sauce. And you can still get your mits on their signature fried chicken. The winter menu is available across all eight of Mexico's locations. Round up your crew and dive in, mouth-first. 

This Is Brat Winter

Image credit: We Are Open Late | Instagram

Have we totally misread the meaning of Hot Brat Summer? Frankly, yes. But do you need this crispy banger from We Are Open Late? 100%. And at twenty bucks for one hecking great brat, it's a no-brainer. The folks at We Are Open Late will be slingin' this top-tier sausage from 5pm on Thursday 1 August (and beyond). Beer-battered and served on a bed—nay, a chaise-longue, of fries—with a can of Cass for good measure, we have no notes. 

This Dairy-Free Feta Just Took Out The Aotearoa Vegan Cheese Awards

Image credit: One Love Planet | Facebook

One Love Planet's "The Greek" plant-based cheese has been named the Supreme Winner of the Vegan Society of Aotearoa Vegan Cheese Awards. Judged by internationally reknowned cheese connoisseur Franco Sessa, executive chef and trainer Jasbir "Jazz" Kaur, industry expert Aaron Pucci, and vegan comedian Tom Sainsbury, who lauded the faux feta for its bold and savoury lemon and garlic notes, The Greek has well and truly proved itself worthy of a cracker near you. The marinated beauty retails at $14 a pop, shop it here. 

It's Giving Margarita, But Make It Dirty

Image credit: Alba | supplied

You’re perched in a rooftop bar overlooking some gorgeous ocean-kissed beach on a perfectly sunny afternoon. Cocktail glass in hand you’re taking your time, making every sip count, basking in the sun’s golden glow. This is what it feels like to drink Alba’s brand new Dirty Margarita. A collaboration with the folks at Dirty International, this isn’t a can you knock back. Laced with distinctly savory notes of olive, this is a drink you’ll contentedly sit on as the hours pass by. 

GoodFor 2.0 Is The Holy Grail Of Wholefood Refilleries 

Image credit: GoodFor | supplied

When GoodFor first sprung into existence back in 2017 with its sleek fit-outs, creative products, and commitment to sustainability, it changed the local bulk food scene forever. And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, it did. Then again, we’re not surprised—GoodFor’s always had main character energy. 

Think: grocery shopping, but make it therapeutic. From wayfinding in salvaged rimu and steel hand washing basins that look like something you’d find in a boutique hotel, to a mill-your-own flour situation, and speciality vinegars, oils, and cleaning supplies on tap in a pleasing minimalist X industrial aesthetic. It’s everything quintessentially GoodFor, and so much more. 

A case in point: the gluten-free pancake and waffle station. Complete with three types of maple syrup which can be bottled on the spot, the station’s kitted out with everything you need to whip up your next brunch crush. This is not a drill—head to GoodFor's latest Grey Lynn iteration and fill 'em up. 

Dive Mouth-First Into Kyle Street's Bonita Takeover

Image credit: Bonita | supplied

Bonita's got a new look and new flavours, and you ought to check out both as soon as possible. The refreshed feel comes care of The Art Dept. creative studio. The highlight? a delightful floor-to-ceiling mural of birds and botanicals. As for the new menu, Culprit.'s Kyle Street is shaking things up with sumptuous results you'll want on a plate near you, stat. 

From Dusty Apron focaccia and Grey Lynn nduja butter to heavenly burrata, showstopping tempura green peppers, meat done just right, and top tier sides. And that’s barely scratching the surface of what’s on offer. Chase your mains with blue cheese, apricot flan de leche, or Valrohna chocolate mousse (or perhaps all three?), and wash it all down with their rum-based Hwachae Cobbler. In a word: exquisite.

 

Get your fix of Kyle Street X Bonita from July through to September.

 

Wish For A Bottomless Belly At Brew'd Hawt's Fried Chicken Day 6 July Feast 

There's only one way to celebrate International Fried Chicken Day this 6th July: with a full tummy and barely-dented bank account. With $10 fried chicken burgers alongside $2 wings at the CEOs of fried chook, Brew'd Hawt, you'll get exactly this.

Not one to ever skimp, we're talking about their iconic full-size 'The G' burger being up for grabs with this pretty price tag. For the unacquainted, The G is the crispiest, classic take on fried chicken with falvour, slabbed between a pillowey-bun. It's strictly for one day only, January 6, at both Manukau and Victoria Park outlets. 

Cast Your Vote For The Best Toasted Sandwich In All The Land

Image credit: Peake's Kitchen | supplied

One of the most fiercely-contested competitions is coming to a plate near you. The Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover has landed and that means two months of top-tier toastie-tasting. 

Now in its seventh iteration, this year’s lineup features 170 toasties, all vying for top dog. Have your say over who’ll bring home the gold by hunting down your nearest contenders and voting for the one that makes your taste buds sing.

Prepare yourself: these toastie-makers are going all-out. ‘Pickle Your Fancy’ (pictured) by Peake’s Kitchen in Otago is a case in point with low and slow oven-roasted beef sandwiched between two thick slices of Flour Bro sourdough along with McClure’s pickles, more cheese than you can shake a fork at, homemade pâté, boysenberry chutney, and notes of horseradish and mustard. Hot damn.

Indulge In Truffles Galore With Andiamo's Fleeting Seasonal Special 

Image credit: Andiamo | Supplied

Make it (truffle) rain. Not your dollar bills, let’s be clear, because Andiamo has perhaps the best truffle set menu deal in town. $40 a pop, Andiamo Recommends menu, will give you a choice of an entree and a main—both truffle infused—and a gorgeous glass of Te Kairanga Runholder Chardonnay or 2022 Te Kairanga Estate Pinot Noir. 

Truffle risotto, short rib fazzoletti pasta oozing in bechamel, and pizza with goat's cheese and truffle honey are the mains, after a truffle maritozzi starter kicks things off. Oh, and if you’re somehow still hungry, a bowl of truffle potato fries and truffle rocket salads are at your fingertips. 

Now for literal truffle rain: freshly shaved truffles can be showered onto any dish for a mere $10 a pop. 

Like all good foodie seasons, the truffle Andiamo Recommends is fleeting. Available now on Wednesday – Sunday from 12 pm – 3 pm until early July, a booking is a must.

Unwind With A Pineapple & Chilli Marg As (Expertly) Made By You

Image credit: Batched Cocktails | supplied

Spice up your post-work chill sesh with Batched’s latest alcohol-laced creation—a pineapple and chilli marg you won’t want to share. Blending tequila all the way from the Mexican Highlands with jalapeños and pineapple, it's so dang delicious that it’s actually shocking it's an RTD.

Importantly, manifesting the marg is effortless, too. You need only shake with ice then pour into a fancy glass—you can whip it up in a flash, whenever the mood strikes. Spike with a chilli salt rim if that’s your jam (it should be) then kick back and relish this oh so sippable tropical-infused moment. 

Celebrate Our Favourite Quirky Fruit With A Little Creativity

Image credit: Dole | Supplied

While we’re on the topic of pineapples…Who’d a’ thunk that pineapple has its very own holiday? It turns out that our favourite form of sunshine and pop culture's darling fruit is fêting its very own day on the 27th of June. True to its versatile and simply irresistible nature, it is calling us on one thing for the occasion: dig out a good ol’ recipe card and get creative.

Luckily, purveyors of pineapples, Dole, has a few: some swift, some savoury, and some even nodding to the pineapple’s vintage novelty days—like the trusty upside down cake. In a world where obscure food holidays are inundating our calendars, it’s refreshing—if you pardon the pun—to see perfect produce get its time in the sun. 

Sip Bubbles At This Immersive Rooftop Wintergarden

Image credit: QT Auckland | Supplied

Winter may have officially arrived on our shores, but thanks to Rooftop At QT, we're embracing the season with open arms. In a collab with Perrier-Jouët, this popular rooftop bar atop QT Auckland has been transformed into a magical wintergarden, where guests are invited to sip on champagne beneath a whimsical vine-covered roof (we're handing over our money as we speak...).

Drops of the premium champagne brand are available by the glass or as part of two guided tasting flights, including the stunning Enchanted Discoveries offering which sees five pours delivered to your table in an enchanted Perrier-Jouët tree. QT Auckland executive chef, James Laird has also prepared some beautiful canapés for the event, designed to perfectly pair with each champagne. You have until 28th July to enjoy this charming experience.

A Rooftop Caviar, Salmon and Champagne Extravaganza Is Coming To Auckland For One Night Only

Image credit: SO/ Auckland | Supplied

Two words: sashimi bar. Okay, and a few more: caviar bumps. Caviar cocktails. Champagne and sake. Salmon and caviar canapés galore. It’s all going down at SO/ Auckland’s HISO Rooftop Bar on Thursday 13th June, when they’ll be celebrating the start of New Zealand’s very Caviar Season, with a food-first party, 16-floors above Auckland CBD: The First of Season: A Caviar Celebration.

Not one to gatekeep, they’re giving locals a chance to taste, sip, pair and well, scoff, Mt Cook Alpine Salmon caviar and its trimmings—all while being able to meet and mingle with the people behind the creation. Simply put, if you love salmon or kaimoana, it’s your ticket to A) getting the freshest taste of the season’s finest B) expanding your foodie wisdom (and network) by meeting the makers and C) a indulging in the finest, innovative, ways to eat caviar. 

Tickets are $89 and include all the salmon and caviar trimmings you could dream of, plus a caviar cocktail and champagne on arrival. Now that’s bang for buck living the—literal—high life. 

Drop Everything, Céleste Has Been Transformed Into A Pizza Pop-Up For The Winter

K' Road fave, Céleste has been temporarily transformed into a pizza shop come bar, dishing up thin and crispy New Haven-style slices alongside lush organic wines. The change— albeit temporary—comes amid the current cost of living crisis, which not surprisingly has seen many Kiwis spending less money on food and eating out. It's hoped that the new Pizzeria Céleste concept will provide a fun and tasty option for people to sink their teeth into, at an affordable price point (honestly, you had us at pizza).

Owner/chef Nick Landsman is no stranger to pizza-making, having perfected his skills during lockdown before going on to sell slices from Gloria's in Commercial Bay (his and partner, Emma Ogilvie's other hugely successful spot). A thin, crisp and considerably lighter crust are all hallmarks of the New Haven style of pizza you'll find at Pizzeria Céleste, along with a longer cooking time which allows the flavours to really develop. And flavour is something you can definitely count on, with slices smothered in burrata, vodka sauce, mushroom, tomato and mozzarella—blue lip mussels, garlic, chilli butter, mozzarella, parmesan and parsley— and Sicilian sausage, potato, pecorino, smoked Provolone, oregano, red onion and Calabrian chilli. Oof.

The team will also be smashing out some tasty extras (their famous garlic French fries and tiramisu, for example), along with wines, beer, and even seasonal cocktails. And just like a proper pizza shop, you can even get your pizza to take away, along with a bottle of wine if you fancy.

Pizzeria Céleste is open Tuesday through Saturday, 5 pm until late.

A Bonafide Burger Festival Is Coming To Ponsonby For One Day Only

Image credit: Azabu Katsu Burger | Eat Drink Love Ponsonby | Supplied

Looking for an excuse to enjoy a burger? How about 15 of them? 'Cos that's the exact number of venues that will be dishing up their own tasty twist on this beloved dish for just one day only, as part of PonsonBurger on Tuesday 28 May (which those of you in the 'burger know' will recognise as International Burger Day).

Parade, Azabu, Bedford Soda & Liquor, Copain, The Broken Lantern, Xiexie and even fine-dining royalty, Sidart, are just some of the many spots that will be firing up their grills for this inaugural event, which is set to bring the 2024 Eat Drink Love Ponsonby festivities to a close.

From Farina's decadent pork belly and Provolone cheese number on a pizza dough bun—to INCA's stacked black cod burger with miso chilli slaw—to Hoppers Garden Bar's juicy confit duck number, served with duck fat fries for good measure (oof!), there really is no excuse not to try at least one... two... 15?

Skincare That's Good Enough To Eat, Antipodes Launches A Probiotic High Tea In Wellington

Image credit: QT Wellington | Supplied

Introducing 'Nourish Me,' a radiant high tea collaboration with skincare experts, Antipodes, held at the chic Hippopotamus Restaurant at Wellington's QT Hotel. Expect meticulously crafted petit fours infused with Antipodes' signature ingredients, highlighting probiotics and native New Zealand elements. Executive Chef Antoine Collet has curated a tempting menu featuring flaxseed and avocado tarts, spirulina goat's cheese mille-feuilles, Kawakawa orange duck croquettes, and banana-kiwi honey cakes with a pineapple crisp. Experience kefir-infused lox bagels and citrus tarts with kombucha gel—as good for your insides as for your skin. 

Indulge in the 'Nourish Me' High Tea, from $69 per person, Saturdays and Sundays, from now until July 28th, 1pm to 3.30pm. You'll receive a lush full-sized Antipodes Culture Night Recovery Water Cream, valued at $70. It's not just a high tea; it's a sensory and revitalising journey for both body and soul.

Taste Your Way Around The Wines Of Aotearoa And The World At This Sleek New Wine Club

Image Credit: SO/ Auckland | Supplied

Downtown Auckland’s sleek lifestyle hotel, SO/ Auckland, is warming us up this winter by launching a series of wine-centric events of all shapes, sizes and sips: SO/ Wine Society. 

First up, a 9 glass—yep, you read that right—degustation with FROMM Winery on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 May. All for a sweet $55 a pop, and guided by one of the winery’s bigwigs themselves, Stephan Walliser in an immersive masterclass. Not to mention, these organic drops will be perfectly paired with nibbles and a 15-floor high view of Auckland CBD.

Now, ever *literally* paired wine with fine art? Come May 30, SO/ Wine Society will be hosting Fluid: An Art and Wine Pairing at their newly-minted SO/ Gallery. Experience a five Alpha Domus boutique wines that have been meticulously paired with the fine art of Rachel Rush. Art, which you’ll be the first to lay eyes on, no less. All this for $25 a head, including nibbles.

Best of all? These events are *just* the tip of the perfectly chilled iceberg. 

Duck Island Ice Cream Has Just Dropped A Brand New Flavour In Collaboration With Everybody Eats

Image credit: Duck Island Ice Cream | Supplied

Yep, everyone’s fave scoop shop has again collabed with social justice enterprise Everybody Eats to create a limited-edition seasonal ice cream that heroes our beloved national fruit, the feijoa. The special edition flavour, Feijoa Jam Doughnut, features tangy feijoa ice cream complemented by a cinnamon-spiced doughnut crumble and a fruity feijoa swirl.

Keen to get your hands on the goodness? It’s on the menu at Everybody Eats all May, as well as at all Duck Island scoop shops where $.50c of every scoop will be donated to the social enterprise. Can’t get enough of the good stuff? You can pick up a pint at Duck Island scoop stores, Farro and Moore Wilson’s with $1 from every tub sold going back to Everybody Eats. Have at it.

Experience The Vineyards Of Hawke's Bay In The Centre Of Auckland This Month

Image credit: Church Road | Supplied

Church Road—the acclaimed Kiwi winery—is hosting a month-long series at Somm Cellar Door from May 1, and you're going to want in. Led by Chief Winemaker Chris Scott, you can enjoy bespoke wine flights for $42 per person, showcasing the finest vintages capturing Hawke's Bay's unique terroir.

A special set menu featuring Carrara Wagyu sirloin with Hawke’s Bay jus, chimichurri and shoestring fries seasoned with rosemary salt has been crafted by Executive Chef Gavin Doyle and pairs perfectly with the 2019 Church Road TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot at a special price of $75 (considering just a glass of this Cab Sav alone would set you back $77, this an absolute steal).

Last but not least, don't miss the exclusive winemaker's tasting event with Chris Scott, offering a rare opportunity to interact directly with the award-winning winemaker, accompanied by a diverse selection of varietals and a charcuterie and cheese plate for $45 per person. With limited availability, book here.

The Viral Sparkling Water Brand That’s Swayed The Likes Of Travis Barker And Tony Hawk Has Finally Landed In New Zealand

Image credit: Liquid Death | Supplied

Whatever comes to mind when you hear the words ‘health drink’, go ahead and throw it in the bin. Liquid Death, the brainchild of creative Mike Cessario, is the latest bev to hit shelves that defies wellness conventions. Just take their slogan for example, “murder your thirst.”

It’s swayed the likes of legendary Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, world renowned skater Tony Hawk, and they’ve managed to rake up 3.2 million followers on Instagram alone. Now, the infamous sparkling water brand packaged in infinitely recyclable tallboy cans has landed in New Zealand, including their severed lime sparkling water and mango chainsaw sparkling water. Those two are retailing for $6.50, and the still and sparkling water is going for six bucks.

A Hidden, Underground Wine Cellar Lined With 56 Wine Barrels Has Just Opened In Queenstown

​Image credit: The Barrel Room | Supplied

The brief was to craft a secret hideaway, and that’s exactly what the team achieved. We’re talking a candle-lit, underground venue reminiscent of wine caves found in Europe. It’s called The Barrel Room, and it's just opened its doors in Ayrburn, the new dining destination of Queenstown. Naturally, wine takes center stage, and Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thomson alongside Wine Maker Jody Pagey have crafted an extensive list that heroes premium drops available by the glass, a hefty 250ml pour, and the full bottle. If you’re no oenophile, fret not—settle in for a guided wine tasting experience to learn all about it from the experts.

On the food front, at the helm is executive chef Richard Highnam, bringing with him a suave share-style menu designed for a feast. It’s perfect for any wine occasion, be it a full-on dinner or some late-night bites. You’ve got burgers, pizza, and steak, huge sharing platters, and sweet treats.

The Barrel Room is open on the daily from 11am and well into the late PM. Bookings this way.

The Beloved Knead On Benson Has Opened A European-Inspired Deli Next Door—Charcuterie Night Just Levelled Up

Image credit: Knead on Benson | Instagram

Tucked within an inconspicuous Remuera neighbourhood is the local cafe hotspot that Aucklanders and visitors in the know have been holding dear. And now, the much-loved Knead on Benson is expanding its offerings in the form of a brand-new European-inspired deli.

Best part? You don’t need to travel far. Knead Next Door has taken over the former dairy that—as you’ve probably guessed—was next door, and the team are keen to carry over the classic Kiwi dairy ethos of being a one-stop-shop for essentials and special treats. 

House-made gelato and sorbet supplied by Takapuna Beach Cafe and freshly baked bread from Knead replace lolly bags and soda cans, and shelves now proudly stock a selection of elevated European deli items.

From sauces to oils, smoked fish to charcuterie, cheese to granola, all items available encompass premium ‘picky bits’—perfect for picnics, shared spreads or pairing perfectly with a freshly baked five-grain loaf from next door. 

It’s time to treat your pantry (and your tums) to an upgrade and shop this little slice of Europe in your own backyard.

Spread It, Dunk It, Spoon It—Fix & Fogg’s Choc Nut Butter Makes A Welcome Return For Easter

Image credit: Fix & Fogg | Instagram

Some choose toast, others fruit and plenty prefer porridge but where the Fix & Fogg Choc Nut Butter is concerned, a spoon will do just nicely. That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, the best peanut butter in the biz is back in time for Easter—and yes, you can get your bottom dollar that a generous dollop will make its way onto a freshly toasted hot cross bun. 

But, back to the butter in hand. This jar of peanut perfection is made with a blend of golden roasted peanuts (80% to be exact) and real chocolate. So, not only is it vegan-friendly and palm oil-free, but it’s packed with that irresistible creaminess and all of the deliciousness you know and love from Fix & Fogg. 

Karangahape Road’s Lebanese Grocer Opens New Coffee Spot Next Door 

Image credit: Lebanese Grocer | Instagram

After emerging on the Karangahape Road food scene just one year ago and charming us one sumac-spiced shawarma at a time, Pitt Street's Lebanese Grocer has a special surprise in store.

Earlier today, the deli and grocer unveiled a brand new coffee spot next door, and if you were one of those in the know, you might have managed to enjoy a free coffee on the house to celebrate its grand opening.

If not, never fear—the new spot, helmed by coffee legends Supreme and Barista whiz Moses, is open from 7 am to 2 pm going forward. Of course, it’d be rude not to pop into the grocer next door for a jar of homemade labneh or hummus, oh and one lamb shawarma with extra onion salad while you're at it.

New Cafe Nero Joins The Ponsonby Neighbourhood, Churning Out Speciality Coffee And Vegan Sweet Treats

Image credit: Carly Black for Nero | Instagram

Out of nowhere, a new wee coffee spot has emerged on Ponsonby Road and already it’s proving quite the hit with those who have happily stumbled across it. You’ll find Nero at the front of a yarn shop, churning out speciality coffee from Underground Coffee Roasters and freshly baked sweet treats from Wen & Yen. 

If you’re yet to try an Underground Coffee pour, a trip to Nero is a must. Whether it’s the caramel and dark chocolate notes from the house blend or the intensity from the Beatnik blend, order in your trusty go-to and taste the difference for yourself.

Nero will also be the place to go in central Auckland to get your hands on Wen & Yen’s gluten-free and vegan doughnuts—a sugar-coated game changer. Next time you’re in Ponsonby, make a pit stop at Nero and welcome the newbie to the neighbourhood in style. 

The New Parnell Eatery Making Fine-Dining Food Accessible For All

Image credit: Rhu | Instagram

Known as the mastermind masterchef behind the high-profile passes at some of Auckland’s most renowned restaurants (Flor, Pasture), Tushar Grover has navigated an impressive career steeped in fine-dining prowess. But, in a surprising yet commendable twist, the seasoned chef has redirected his focus toward creating food that although nuanced, is accessible for all. This ethos will soon present itself as a brand-new all-day eatery—Rhu. 

At the helm of Rhu is a compact yet highly skilled team of chefs and bakers propelled by their shared devotion to exceptional cuisine. Drawing inspiration from their fine-dining backgrounds, Rhu strives to shatter the barriers of exclusivity often associated with this calibre of food.

As doors open, Rhu will begin its artisan breakfast offerings. Early birds can pick up a window delight or two (think freshly baked loaves and pastries), stop in for a salmon, potato bread, roe and pickle sandwich or stay put for a la carte menu items. As dusk falls, Rhu will seamlessly transition into a cosy wine bar where seasonal small plates shine amidst the mood lighting.

For those who consider themselves foodies at heart, Rhu is undoubtedly an establishment to keep on your culinary radar.

One Of Auckland’s Most Beloved Italian Restaurants Is Back And Better Than Ever

Image credit: Otto | Instagram

Just as unexpectedly as it closed, one of Auckland's most beloved pasta joints has unexpectedly reopened. For 2024, Cotto has made its welcomed return as Otto. Shaking off any past negativity and of course, its original ‘c’, the premier Italian restaurant is back and better than ever, fronted by a team of new owners and backed by familiar, friendly waitstaff faces. 

With its rebrand comes a new wave of excitement and a new summer-inspired menu to boot. But before forks go flying, you’ll be pleased to know Otto has remained true to its roots where food is concerned—after all, why mess with a damn good thing?

As a result, prepare to fall in love all over again with your favourite focaccia, pasta, and dumpling dishes, along with a selection of seasonal surprises, such as the tortelli with eggplant parmigiana, smoked mozzarella and cherry tomatoes. We're particularly chuffed to see the goat's cheese and spinach dumplings swimming in sage butter take to the stage once again. 

Since the announcement, support continues to surround Otto, with its loyal legion of foodie fans eager to meet and eat at this treasured Karangahape Road restaurant once again.

The Ponsonby Central Food Family Has Grown To Welcome New Cambodian Eatery, Tinfeny's

Image credit: Tinfeny's | Instagram

Here in Auckland, we’re lucky to have a wealth of world-class Asian eats on our doorsteps (or at the click of a button). But one cuisine in particular seems few and far between in Tāmaki Makaurau—that of Cambodian.

Characterised for its sweet, sour, salty, and occasionally spicy elements, getting your hands and forks on iconic dishes such as lok lok and amok trei has long been a bittersweet pipedream—until now. Say hello to the new Cambodian eatery, Tinfeny's. 

Taking residence within the ever-popular Ponsonby Central dining district, Tinfeny’s is a celebration of authentic Cambodian cuisine, run by mother-daughter duo, Richny and Felicity. Inspired by the comforting yet fresh flavours found within the food stalls of the Siem Reap markets, the passionate pair have curated a menu bound to excite seasoned pros and first-time-triers of Cambodian food.

Here you’ll find a selection of small plates, including the stuffed chicken wings with zesty lemongrass and vermicelli and crispy pork belly bites with Cambodian dipping sauce—perfect for sharing or a pit-stop snack.

Now mains is where you’ll truly see this stellar cuisine shine. From Cambodian staples such as ban chow (pork and prawn-filled pancakes) to wok-flashed dishes like the spicy red curry snapper, your only challenge is showing restraint and saving room for dessert as the jackfruit and sticky rice ice cream is a must.

With a space and team just as warm and welcoming as the food, Tinfeny’s is a slice of Cambodia worth savouring in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant culinary scene. 

An Independent, Artisan Coffee House Has Arrived In Takapuna, Tucked Down A Hidden Arcade Alley

Image credit: Stroll Coffee | Yechu Yechu | Google 

As a nation so well-known for its world-class coffee, we’re always ready to welcome new roasteries with open arms and willing wallets. The latest (and greatest) to join the already impressive caffeine-fuelled line-up is tucked up Takapuna’s Parkway Arcade and goes by the name, Stroll Coffee.

Behind the slick, black exterior you’ll likely find seasoned caffeine pros Eddie and Matt pouring coffee perfection in the cosy yet chic space. Although the roasting of their own bean blends is done offsite, the magic happens behind the machine.

Here, medium-dark roasts boasting notes of chocolate and burnt brown sugar take centre stage for a menu of classic, innovative and exciting drinks. Our current favourite? The Einspänner.

If you’re new to this Viennese-born creation, it’s time to get acquainted with a tall glass of espresso topped with cream that sits perfectly atop its coffee layer before a sprinkling of sea salt joins the party. Warning—you may never go back to standard brews again. 

The Hamilton Dining Scene Is On A Roll With The Latest Arrival Of All-Day Eatery, Fergus Bar

Image credit: Fergus Bar | Instagram

Following the successful opening of the recent Made precinct, Hamilton has cemented itself as a hub for stellar dining and drinking. And just one week ago, the city welcomed a brand-spanking new eatery to the mix. Enter Fergus Bar.

Becoming a new local for everyone—from the pit-stop dog walkers to the post-shopping feeders—was the goal for the fabulous four behind Fergus and although it's early days, it’s already looking like a clean sweep. You’ll find this family-friendly neighbourhood spot in Rototuna, open seven days a week from 11 am til late, with a huge outdoor garden space made for sippin’ al fresco.

Whether you’re looking for a new lunch spot to add to your list or a space to round up the clan over a few drinks and dins, it seems like Fergus has all occasions well and truly catered for—especially with a menu this good.

Tuck into a plethora of pub classics, reimagined with a sprinkling of sophistication and plated to photo-worthy perfection. We’re talking the likes of parmesan-crusted chicken parma, coffee-braised beef cheek with mash and hand-stretched sourdough pizzas—and we’re only just getting started.

Little ones are well and truly taken care of, too and as more and more flock to Fergus Bar, it seems this local’s secret is one worth being in on. 

Albany Westfield Will Soon Welcome Popular Eatery And Bar, Something and Social

Image credit: Something and Social | Instagram

After taking the rooftop of Newmarket’s Westfield Mall by storm, the cult, crowd-favourite all-day bar and eatery, Something and Social, is opening a second outpost at Albany Westfield.

Soon, shoppers, locals and visitors alike can meet, eat and drink in a spot designed to offer a social solution when you’ve finished your certain something.

Whether you’re after a pre-Kmart pick-me-up or dinner and drinks with the girls, you’ll find it all, and then some, at this dining destination. Although much is to be revealed (including a definite opening date), if the popular Newmarket spot is anything to go by, we can expect top-notch eats from dusk til dawn. 

An Asian-Fusion Sandwich Truck Has Arrived, With Thick-Cut Steak Sammies To Boot

Image credit: That Sando Guy | Instagram

They say money can’t buy happiness but there’s something to be said about the serotonin influx that comes after purchasing a feed from That Sando Guy. Since its opening late last year, the new pop-up food truck about town has been serving up some of the most loaded and lip-smackingly delish Asian-fusion sandwiches Auckland has ever seen at its various pop-up locations.

We’re talking the likes of rare cuts of sirloin steak, smothered in Japanese steak sauce, sandwiched between two slices of light milk toast (affectionately known as the Premium Beef Sando) and the KFC sando—a sandwich celebration of Korean fried chicken, sweet and spicy sauce and slaw. There’s also an array of donburi bowls and burgers to delve into—including the must-try peanut butter patty melt.

If you haven’t managed to get your hands around one of these thicc sammies yet, it’s your time to shine as That Sando Guy has joined Uber Eats. Now you can order the same menu items served in the food truck from the comfort of your own couch—winner-winner, chicken (sandwich) dinner. 

As One Karangahape Road Door Closes, A Commercial Bay One Opens—Gloria's Is Back, Baby

Image credit: Gloria's | Instagram

As Gloria's closed its Karangahape Road doors late last year, we were left with quite possibly the worst Christmas present on record. However, it seems we’re back in Santa’s good books for 2024 as the sandwich shop has emerged in a brand-spanking new Auckland location—Commercial Bay.

Taking residence on the ground floor amongst the luxury apparel stores and sweet treat shops, Gloria's (2.0) is back and bigger than ever, with an opening expected in the next month or so.

The space will welcome back the sorely missed sandwiches so synonymous with Gloria's, and we'll keep our fingers crossed that the stuffed-to-the-brim salt beef takes to the sandwich stage once more.

Alongside these always-sell-out sammies, Gloria's will welcome a few new concepts, including pizza al taglio (think thick, fluffy square slices) and focaccia—a project Chef Nick has been developing for months. This new location has ‘Shall we just go out for lunch?’ written all over it. 

Get Ready To Strut Your Sweet Stuff—A New Couture Doughnut Shop Has Landed In Newmarket

Image credit: Deverauxs | Instagram

If you thought haute couture was reserved only for the catwalks of Paris and Milan, think again. Making quite the sweet statement this season is the new couture doughnut store, Deverauxs, which has just touched down in Newmarket.

From the team behind Kookie Haus and Doughnut Haus, Deverauxs is another celebration of all things sweet, this time packaged exquisitely for the seemingly more discerning diner. The bakery (on Broadway) is adorned with lavish decor and deep jewel-tone shades to match the equally opulent doughnuts that line the glass cabinets.

Inside, you’ll find the season’s must-have couture doughnuts, all impeccably decorated. From the classic collection to the couture collection, each sweet treat looks almost too good to eat... almost. We’re talking the likes of Meringue au Citron boasting chewy meringue peaks, zingy lemon and sweet vanilla and the La Vie En Rose featuring rosewater, pistachio and dragonfruit flavours.

With a rotating roster of flavours as the seasons come and go, we expect plenty more exciting eats from New Zealand’s first couture doughnut shop.

Dominion Road Welcomes New Korean Bistro KOOKOO To Its Already Impressive Asian Restaurant Line-Up

Image credit: KOOKOO | Instagram

For decades, Dominion Road has earned and held on to the title as the best place for Asian eats in Auckland. And today, a new Korean restaurant joins the already impressive line-up. Enter KOOKOO. 

Sandwiched between a sushi shop and a spicy potato noodle house, 245 Dominion Road is now the new, permanent digs for KOOKOO who, just two years ago, started selling Korean chicken and pork dishes at the Auckland Night Markets.

Today, the team has channelled its learnings and passions into a more bistro-style offering, but don't worry, its iconic fried chicken is still a focal point on the menu. Alongside the classic half-and-half crispy Korean fried chicken, KOOKOO provides plenty of other chook goodness—the spatchcock kind to be precise. Roasted whole til a subtle char is achieved and then smothered in what looks like a creamy, nutty and spicy sauce—we’re sold. 

While the menu is under wraps we can expect a plethora of key Korean staples brimming with sticky and spicy rice and noodle dishes, alongside plenty of Soju to wash it all down with. 

A New Independent Butchery And Homewares Store Has Opened In The Hibiscus Coast Taking Your Sausage Sizzle To The Next Level

Image credit: Marrow | Instagram

From clothes to homewares, you’re probably no stranger to supporting and shopping small businesses—and if you haven’t already, it’s time to extend this ethical ethos into the realm of meat. And here, showing us exactly why, is new Hibiscus Coast butchery (and homeware store) Marrow.

After meating (sorry, we had to) in a butchers shop many moons ago, owners Nick—butcher extraordinaire—and Katie—designer whizz—decided to open their own spot back home where both passions can blossom within the Hibiscus Coast community.

While the combination of butchery and design may sound initially unexpected, both sides of Marrow circulate around minimal waste, proper techniques and organic produce, and together create a place where your future kitchen can flourish with remarkable food and wares. 

On the meat side of Marrow, Nick ensures the small and talented farmers in our big and beautiful backyard are celebrated and that all produce is of the highest quality—meticulously trimmed and prepared with a subtle flavour that lets the meat do the talking.

There’s even homemade condiments to take home, such as zesty herb spreads that complement and accentuate your chosen cuts. Whether you’re hosting the family BBQ or want to shop a little more sustainably, Marrow has you and your bellies sorted.

A Korean-Inspired Eatery Has Opened In Ellerslie With Chewy, Creamy Udon Noodles And Scampi Pasta On The Menu 

Image credit: Louis Zhou for Lulu Cafe | Google Reviews

Amidst the hullabaloo of the Christmas holidays, a colourful new Korean cafe opened in Ellerslie. If you haven’t already had the pleasure, say hello to Lulu Cafe. After opening in late December, the new brunch spot has already received rave reviews from locals and far-flung visitors alike. 

The menu celebrates recognisable Korean flavours and strikes a great balance between sweet and savoury dishes with offerings perfect for early birds or those looking to extend brunch into lunch.

So far, it seems the creamy truffle mushroom udon is leading the charge where best-selling brunch items are concerned and we can see why. Dig into a bowl of cream-coated, chewy udon noodles, gently folded with a mushroom medley and salty bacon bits, sprinkled with dried black olive and served with tempura enoki and a soft egg yolk that adds a silky and sumptuous finish to an already unctuous dish.

Answer the call of your sweet tooth in epic fashion with the thick and fluffy French toast slab slice, served with fresh, seasonal fruit, Oreo crumble, strawberry puree and matcha mochi. With staff just as warm and welcoming as the food on offer, it’s time to hop, skip and brunch your way to Lulu.

A New Middle Eastern Eatery Is Coming To Auckland, Located Within 5-Star Luxury On The Waterfront

Image credit: Advieh | Instagram

Auckland is getting ready to unveil the latest addition to its iconic skyline in the form of the new, 5-star InterContinental Auckland later this month (Tuesday, 30 January) and housed within the deluxe walls is a new Middle Eastern restaurant, Advieh. 

Inspired by and named after the essence of Advieh (an aromatic Persian spice blend comparable to garam masala), the hotel’s flagship eatery is a celebration of the lively flavours found within Middle Eastern, Greek and Mediterranean cuisines, with dishes enriched by partner chef Gareth Stewart’s extensive travels and impressive 30-year career. 

Upon first glance, familiar Middle Eastern favourites rear their head across the sprawling breakfast, lunch and dinner menus—dolma, baklava, kataifi—just to name a few. However, these iconic dishes have been reimagined with innovative concepts and carefully weave in somewhat surprising yet incredibly welcomed Kiwi produce such as paua, Wapiti deer and Kawhia Coast flounder. 

Take the baklava, for example. This traditional dessert has been flipped on its head and now takes centre stage within the savoury section on the lunch and dinner menu. Staying true to its origin, the filo-based dish still highlights pistachio and Manuka honey beautifully but brings umami chicken liver and preserved kumquat to the table.

This experimental and playful ethos cascades through the menu—from the paua-stuffed dolma to the scampi and crayfish kataifi—an offering, which, dare we say, is a refreshing shake-up to the Auckland dining scene. The space itself is quietly luxurious as one could expect from the 5-star hotel’s reputation, providing the perfect backdrop to a morning, midday or evening of 5-star fare. 

The Grill Is Set To Sizzle Once Again As The Iconic Auckland Eatery Returns In 2024

Image credit: The Grill | Supplied

Since its closure in early 2021, discerning diners up and down the country have been mourning the loss of one of Auckland’s most iconic dining institutions, The Grill, and the top-tier steak it was loved for.

Thankfully, our prayers have been answered as The Grill is set to sizzle once again as the star attraction at SkyCity’s new 5-star Horizon by SkyCity hotel is opening soon.

And with its reassurance comes the return of a familiar face aka Executive Chef Touvai Poloniati who began his acclaimed culinary path as an apprentice at SkyCity as a teenager. With Poloniati taking the reins, he and his team promise a feast that’s a love letter to Aotearoa’s tastiest treasures and a celebration of those behind the scenes.

From producers to purveyors, farmers to fisheries, diners can enjoy the finest quality grass-fed steaks and sustainable line-caught fish our country has to offer in dishes curated and grilled to perfection. 

Poloniati isn’t the only beloved classic returning to The Grill. Treasured dishes such as the beef Wellington and mac ‘n’ cheese are back (can we get an amen?), alongside new delights such as the Wapiti Venison Tartare that we’re just as excited to get stuck into.

The announcement has brought a flurry of excitement to the Auckland dining scene and we can’t wait 'til doors open and grills ignite once more. 

A Great Gatsby-Inspired Restaurant And Cocktail Bar Has Opened Within An Old Bank Building In Epsom 

Image credit: The Emerald | Instagram

Looking straight out of a scene from an F. Scott Fitzgerald novel is the new Epsom restaurant and cocktail bar, The Emerald. 

After almost four years of waiting, an iconic 1954 former bank building has been lovingly transformed into a glamorous hotspot that Jay Gatsby himself would be proud to frequent. Through regular renovation updates over on Instagram, the team has been busy getting the space ready, and the grand curtains have just fallen.

Drenched in emerald jewel tones, brushed velvet and gold accents, The Emerald perfectly captures the exuberance of the roaring 1920s through art-deco opulence. Amidst the fringed chandeliers, cosy cocktail nooks and plentiful palms, there’s one particular furnishing that demands attention when ordering your tipple of choice at the bar. Taking centre stage are vintage beer taps from the 1940s, painted in—you guessed it—emerald green. 

Whilst the drink and food offerings are still firmly under wraps, if the amount of hard work that has gone into creating such awe-inspiring interiors transcends into the menus, we have high, high hopes for what’s to come for The Emerald.  

The 9th, Yes 9th, Burger Burger Is Coming To Town And East Auckland, You’re In Luck

Image credit: Burger Burger | Instagram

From the first 50-seat restaurant in Ponsonby in 2014 to the recent Torbay outpost, Burger Burger has spread its wings (and burger sauce) across the country through eight eateries in its 10-year reign. But the talented team isn't done yet—no sir. Number nine is on its way. 

Kicking the year off with a fantastic burger bang is the initial tease of a new spot. A massive shout-out to the super sleuths who quickly guessed where the new restaurant will open—Mission Bay. Joining the likes of Dantes, Uncle Man's and Temakeria, Burger Burger will open at The Eatery in Eastridge—but, you’ll have to wait to hear exactly when. Updates as we hear more, folks. 

A New Pizza-By-The-Slice Spot Has Opened In Mount Eden And It's Already Looking Like A Sell-Out Service (And For Good Reason)

Image credit: Rosalia's | Instagram

Following the news from last week, it seems Parade and soon-to-open Bodega are the talk of the town. After quietly occupying a small, unbranded space on the corner of Mount Eden and Boston Road as their commercial kitchen, the team will soon share the space with new pizza-by-the-slice joint, Rosalia’s. 

Dreamt up from a place of pure passion after taste-testing their way around the pizza capital of the world, the Rosalia’s team has been busy perfecting its craft and from what we can see, is almost ready, with plenty of proven results to boot.

Specialising in pizza al taglio aka the street food pizza of Rome, Rosalia’s pizzas are baked in traditional large rectangles (before being cut into squares) and boast that instantly recognisable bubbly and airy Italian crust that’s been so elusive here in Aotearoa, before now. 

Speaking of toppings, there’s a take on the iconic pizza con patate with super thin potato slices and crispy bacon pieces atop a blanche base. Of course, there are refreshing remixes of classics such as fungi and pomodoro, too. 

Doors open on Wednesday, 17 January from 12 pm and already there are whispers of an early sell-out, so wave arrivederci to your packed lunch and head on over to Rosalia’s for your hump day lunch fix. 

Beloved Auckland Restaurant Ada Has Started A New Breakfast Service With A Hāngī Pork Belly Benedict Taking Centre Stage

Image credit: Ada | Instagram

Known for dishing up some of Auckland’s most sought-after kai in some of the most idyllic surroundings in town, stellar New Zealand restaurant Ada has just given us even more reason to head to the Convent... breakfast. The brand-new breakfast service kicked off last Friday and is available every day (except Mondays) from 7:30 am and, as expected, it’s just as superb as its evening menu counterpart. 

With Head Chef Kia Kanuta leading the charge, traditional breakfast dishes have been reinvigorated with his recognisable indigenous-inspired flair and seasonal produce. Wave goodbye to bland oats and say hello to the grain-free granola, spiced with harakeke and horopito, served with shaved coconut, maple, seasonal fruit and a dollop of coconut yoghurt for good measure.

We have a sneaking suspicion that the hāngī pork belly benedict will top the till orders as Marmite hollandaise, kumara sourdough and melt-in-the-mouth hāngī pork belly are simply too good to resist.

For those after a wee snack to start the day, freshly baked pastries and Atomic Coffee are up for grabs, whilst not-so-early birds can relish the fact that Ada is also now open for lunch on Saturdays. To snooze or not to snooze—that is the question.

Cult Vegan Thai Eatery Khu Khu Is Opening A Third Restaurant In Auckland Promising Exceptional Plant-Powered Fare

Image credit: Khu Khu | Instagram

After winning over the hearts (and taste buds) of vegan and non-vegan eaters alike at its flagship Ponsonby and recently opened Milford eateries, vegan Thai restaurant Khu Khu is opening a third outpost in Auckland’s CBD. 

Famed for its seemingly effortless ability to recreate classic Thai dishes in solely plant-powered form, Khu Khu has amassed quite a loyal following, smashing the once ‘boring’ stereotypes one pad see ew at a time.

The new site will take over a spot within the Snickel Lane complex, joining the likes of La Fuente and Mad Samurai, with opening expected in early February. As for the menu, well, if Ponsonby and Milford are anything to go by, we can certainly expect the innovative and punchy flavours so synonymous with Khu Khu.

Whether it’s the crispy 'chicken' in zingy sauce or crunchy papaya salad, we can’t wait to see which familiar favourites grace the new spot’s menu. Founder Michael says the new space will also give the plant-powered team more space and freedom to experiment with new creative combinations which we absolutely can't wait to experience.  

Buckle Up Wellington - A New Croissant X Wine Bar Is Coming Your Way This Month

Image credit: Glou Glou | Instagram

Butter, butter and more butter—quite arguably the recipe for success and where new croissanterie Glou Glou is concerned, the key ingredient behind pastry perfection. Due to open in January within Wellington’s The Exchange on Allen Street, the new espresso cum wine bar cum sweet treat destination has already been a hit with the locals.

At a one-off pop-up last October,  eager pastry aficionados were given a glimpse into the excellence they can expect to enjoy at the soon-to-open, permanent digs. 

And now, as we inch closer to the grand unveiling, get ready to feast your eyes and taste buds on Glou Glou’s offerings. Alongside classic and perfectly feuilleté aka laminated pastries such as butter and pain au chocolat, the team specialises in viral croissant cubes that have taken the baking world by storm. And we’re talking filled-to-the-brim.

From lemon meringue to hazelnut choc, flavoured cream cascades through each croissant cube's core, ensuring each mouthful is both marvellous and unapologetically messy. Coffee is courtesy of beloved Wellington roasters, Supreme and there’s even hand-whisked matcha up for grabs. Whilst we wait to hear more about the wine bar element of Glou Glou, keep up with opening dates and pastry bakes here. 

The Team Behind Parade Are Opening A New York Deli And Bistro In March

Image credit: Parade | Instagram

First Food News of the new year and we’re off to a scorcher with the latest announcement from the team at Parade. Auckland’s go-to for premier pretzel burgers has revealed its opening a brand-new eatery called Bodega in March.

Taking residence on the corner of Williamson Avenue and Ponsonby Road, Bodega will offer made-to-order sandwiches inspired by New York’s Italian-style delis in fresh, homemade buns already so synonymous with its sister site Parade. 

The team has been kind enough to tease us with a few sneak peeks of potential items, including what looks like a chimichurri steak baguette packed with crispy frites and a classic combo of stracciatella and salami in a pillowy roll - safe to say March can’t come soon enough.

Along with a made-to-order sammie station, it looks like there will be a variety of sweet treats and pastries to order, including filled-to-the-brim cannoli. While the deli will be in full swing by day, as dusk falls, Bodega will transform into an evening bistro akin to its iconic New York counterparts such as Benoit and Raoul's. As always, updates as we hear more. 

A New Rooftop Bar Has Opened In Auckland In Time For Drinks Al Fresco, With Superb Food To Boot

Image credit: Darling on Drake | Instagram

Despite opening just three weeks ago, new rooftop bar Darling on Drake is already cementing itself as one of, if not THE ‘it’ place to dine and drink this summer and beyond. Rivalling the likes of Hotel Ponsonby and East Street Hall where cool hangouts are concerned, Darling on Drake is taking the Auckland food and drink scene by serious storm. 

With seasoned hospitality pro Fraser Kirby at the helm, it’s clear to see how his expansive industry career has shaped his own, specially-made slice of hospitality heaven. Whether it’s through the opulent decor, sprawling outdoor deck with unbeatable views or the meticulously crafted food and drink menu, a trip (or two) to Darling on Drake is a must. 

Fitted out in deep burgundy hues and grand marble furnishings, the space feels like stepping into a special occasion every time, naturally creating aesthetic vistas worth posting to Stories. The wrap-around bar is where the mixology magic happens, offering a selection of fancier cocktails (The Serpent is a must) alongside beers, wine and cocktails on tap. 

Choosing to match the notable drink offerings with equally memorable food might be a mean feat for most, but Kirby has nailed it in spectacular form. The menu is a reflection of Kirby’s worldly travels combined with iconic dishes reimagined with playful twists for today’s discerning diner.

The potato scallops served with vinegar powder and curry aioli gives a nod to an iconic English chippy staple while the strawberry and sherry trifle, served with kitsch sprinkles, is reminiscent of children's birthday parties or Granny’s time-honoured recipe. 

Whether you're after a sit-down meal with a partner or drinks on the decks with friends, Darling on Drake ticks every box.

Whangamatā Welcomes A New Spanish-Inspired Eatery That’s Already Receiving Rave Reviews From Visitors And Locals Alike

Image credit: Camina | Instagram

New contemporary Spanish-style eatery Camina has opened in Whangamatā, warming hearts and fueling hungry tummies one delicious dish at a time. Taking over a former cinema in a myriad of mini laneways, Camina is the love child of co-owners Rowan and Barend who, after pursuing cheffing and musical passions around the world, are ready to settle down and pour their hearts, souls and taste buds into their latest venture. 

Camina, translating as ‘walk’ or ‘wending one’s way’ in Spanish, fits perfectly with the notion of enjoying a stop-off of great company and even greater food on your ‘camina’ aka travels around the Coromandel/Waikato region. Along with creating a space doubling as a well-deserved respite spot for visitors from far and wide, the dynamic duo are equally as passionate about fostering the Whangamata community spirit—and what better way to bring people together than through superb food. 

Fire is central to Camina’s style of cooking, stripping it back to simpler times, allowing the seasonal and localised fare to shine beautifully. The Spanish-style menu gives a nod to traditional tapas—all designed to be shared and guaranteed to delight.

A few standouts include the mussel and nduja tostada—a salty and smokey open snack that leads exquisitely into the grilled cabbage wedge served with a subtly sweet tomato jam, labneh and spiced almonds.

The lamb skewers with lemon, anchovy and accompanying flatbreads are a must (askew knives and forks at this point) and save room for the homemade S’more with Coromandel chocolate. With glowing reviews from locals and visitors alike, Camina is evidently a pitstop worth making. 

Disguised As A Classic Kiwi Dairy, New Diner Loosies Superette Lands On Cuba Street

Image credit: Loosies Superette | Instagram

At first glance, new Welly diner Loosies Superette looks like any other Dairy that’s conveniently popped up on Cuba Street. But inside, you won’t find your $2 lolly bags or tepid pies—no no. Instead, a kaleidoscope of colour, banging tunes and cheap eats awaits. 

80s convenience store exterior aside, Loosies is a high-energy diner cum dive bar serving classic American-style dishes (day or night) that caters to those looking for a quick bite to eat to groups parking up for the day around the pool tables.

The menu is unfussy, uncomplicated and everything you could desire from upmarket diner fare. Starting strong with the can o’ nachos which is exactly what it says on the tin (pun intended) and the whole blooming fried onion covered in American cheese sauce, Flaming Hot Cheetos and plenty of moorish, crispy bits to pick at.

Other stand-outs include the steak, egg and chips served with a sea of red-eye gravy hot sauce for dipping and the deep-fried NY cheesecake for afters. Beers, wine, boozy shakes and cocktails (including the Jelly Tip espresso martini) will keep you going all day and night and there are always some specials to make the most of. 

Don’t forget to venture downstairs to explore the billiards room which, as the large neon sign advertises, was once a former brothel, and is now a cosy, speakeasy-style games’ room. All in all, don’t be surprised to step into Loosies while the sun is up and leave as the cows come home. 

A Sophisticated Steakhouse Has Arrived In Remuera, Offering Melt-In-The-Mouth Wagyu And Bone Marrow Butter

Image credit: Royal Reed for Manzo | Instagram

Sometimes only a perfectly cooked steak (rare is the only right answer here) will cut the mustard. Thankfully, after what seems like a lull in new steakhouse openings, our aged, marbled prayers have finally been answered in the form of Manzo. This new Remuera restaurant is a celebration of carnivore excellence located within a chic, velvet-lined venue on Remuera Road. 

While Manzo draws inspiration from global steakhouse superstars, owners Fabrizio and Taryne Napolitano are passionate about ensuring the spotlight shines on the premier New Zealand meat that takes centre stage on the mouth-watering menu. 

After sourcing meat fresh from small, family-run farms, the Manzo team get to work dry ageing Wagyu and other steak cuts in-house, ready to hit the griddle for a plethora of starters, mains and sharing sides.

From the short rib with aubergine, tomato fondue and black garlic to the ‘handpicked’ eye fillet with fungi hollandaise and kina, choosing which main to order is a pretty tough feat—especially when considering the wagyu section. Here, a handful of cuts and sizes are presented alongside a small selection of accompanying sides such as bone marrow butter with coriander and pancetta. 

Non-meat-eaters, never fear—Manzo is here with a handful of fish and vegetarian suitable dishes that are equally as delish. So, make an excuse for a special occasion and hot-foot it to what is shaping up to be Auckland’s latest and greatest steakhouse. 

Kingsland Welcomes New Brewery Saint Leonards Brewing To The Neighbourhood, Taking Over A Former Panel Beater Workshop

Image credit: Steve Ryder for Saint Leonards Brewing | Instagram

Joining the likes of Garage Project and Urbanaut and therefore solidifying Kingsland as the go-to suburb for superb craft beer is a new brewery on the block, Saint Leonards Brewing. 

Taking residence in a former panel beater workshop, the large space has remained predominantly industrial, using the inside area to house the large tanks while the backyard has transformed into a spacious beer garden/bar.

As for the team behind this new beer spot? Well, with the likes of Hideaway and Revelry up their sleeves, the beer-loving bunch certainly know a thing or two about what it takes to run a successful hospo haunt. 

A home-brewed passion project has now blossomed into an already popular hangout, with pints of exclusive saisons, sours and hoppy hazys flowing day and night.

As the warm weather continues to slowly creep in and with plenty of outdoor space to fill, Saint Leonards Brewing has summer sessions well and truly catered for this year.

Westmere Welcomes A New Bakery, Celebrating Nostalgic Kiwi Treats Reimagined For Today

Image credit: Beabea's | Instagram

Kiwis and bakeries—name a more iconic duo—we’ll wait. Well, where Sarah and Benjamin of the new bakery Beabea’s are concerned, there might be another rightful contender. 

The latest Westmere opening joining the likes of new deli cum pasteria Stracci and neighbourhood taco joint Ragtag is Beabea’s—the love child of dynamic duo Ben and Sarah who met whilst working at Daily Bread. You could say butter runs through their veins.

The pastry-mad pair wanted to venture out on their own, creating a small place that celebrates the iconic pastry creations of Aotearoa and the stories we can all relate to that surround them. Take Beabea’s flaky steak and cheese pie—baked into a square-shaped pastry parcel—reminiscent of frozen snack pies you’d sneak before dinner.

But, in true Auckland fashion, these treats are a grown-up, trendier version—the kind you’re proud to post to your Stories. Get ready to eat your way down memory lane with the Louise Slice croissant—an airy, flaky version packed with comforting coconut and jam flavours. 

The space itself is super simple, allowing the perfectly baked pastries that line the minimalist, steel-top counter to do all the talking while you do all (and we mean all) the munching. 

A New Italian Eatery Has Arrived In Auckland Serving Burrata For Brekkie And Tiramisu Martinis All Day

Image credit: Baci | Instagram

All-day Italian dining? Where do we sign? Baci Eatery is the new Italian eatery taking Auckland’s Sylvia Park by storm, offering fresh and flavourful European eats from morning to night at the popular shopping precinct.

Drawing inspiration from Positano's picture-perfect postcard vistas, Baci Eatery boasts an al fresco dining terrace adorned with fresh, low-hanging flowers simply crying out for an Aperol Spritz post-Mecca trip.

For all you early birds after a pre-sale feed, Baci Eatery might be the only place in AKL to order breakfast burrata so definitely jump at the chance to... it's served with toasted ciabatta, pesto and tomatoes for slathering and dipping. Lunch/dins showcase elevated Italian classics such as linguine with burnt chilli butter and clams and Formaggio pizza (four cheese) topped with honey and thyme for a little extra ‘mmm'’. 

Now the real pièce de résistance comes in the form of something sweet and shaken—the tiramisu martini, topped with a delicate sponge finger and packed with a boozy, creamy concoction. All in all, no matter the time of day, Baci Eatery has plenty of delish eats to fuel your shopathon. 

Queenstown Welcomes A New Tex-Mex Eatery Fuelled By Margarita Slushies, Just In Time For Summer

Image credit: Miss Rita's Cantina | Supplied

Bringing a generous dose of tequila-fuelled slushies to summer is a new Tex-Mex eatery, Miss Rita’s Cantina. The flavour (and fun)-filled dining destination has recently opened its brightly painted doors in Queenstown (just below the Skyline Gondola) and already, it’s looking like a contender for best cheap eats in town thanks to the daily deals on offer.

Promos aka Rita’s Rituals include but are not limited to, Taco Tuesday, Texas Fold 'em Thursday (aka any quesadilla for $16), lunch specials at $16 and 4-6 pm happy hour daily—and we’re just getting started. 

Promos aside, the entire and extensive menu celebrates classic Tex-Mex flavours and boasts plenty of familiar favourites, ensuring there’s something for everyone, including those fussy friends.

From plates of crispy fried chicken to jam-packed burritos and share (or not to share) nachos, post-adventures are well and truly catered for. If you’re lucky, nab a spot in the sun-soaked courtyard for an afternoon of al fresco frozen margs—bliss. 

A New Hidden, Hole-In-The-Wall Coffee Spot Has Opened On Dominion Road 

Image credit: Ace Coffee | Instagram

Tucked tightly between Dominion Road’s iconic Capital Cinema and a tea house is quite possibly the latest (and greatest) contender for Auckland’s smallest coffee spot. Enter Ace Coffee. 

With a width not much greater than Steven Adams' arm span and just enough room for a two-person-seating window bench, while small, this new space already feels like a cosy coffee-laden hug.

Ace Coffee’s Mia and Tatiana are just as warm and welcoming—the type of people who would remember your name and coffee order after your first visit. Speaking of coffee, Hummingbird is the bean of choice at Ace and may we add, very reasonably priced. They’ve even stocked a cake stand or two with donuts from new Korean bakery Small Mercies which, if you haven’t already tried, are a must-have moreish treat. 

It’s simply the perfect little pit-stop for a midweek pick-me-up.

A New Contemporary Chinese Eatery Opens In Ponsonby This Week

Image credit: XieXie | Supplied

As if Ponsonby Road wasn’t already our go-to for all things eating, dining and shopping, this foodie precinct / Ponsonby paradise is just about to welcome a new contemporary Chinese restaurant to the area.

From the team behind cult Asian eateries Eden Noodles and Biang Biang Noodles, new spot XièXiè, meaning 'thanks' in Mandarin, is a place where gratitude meets gastronomy—in short, an eatery that welcomes both exceptional eats and immaculate vibes.

Thoughtfully incorporating influential and iconic Chinese dishes with contemporary techniques and innovative flavours, the team at XièXiè prides itself on creative Chinese fusion that both astounds and delights. 

Now, food. Don’t look past the slow-cooked eggplant stuffed with spiced pork mince and honey to start that pairs perfectly with the beer-battered Asian mushrooms—to dip or not to dip, that is the question. Dumplings are mandatory—sorry we don’t make the rules—especially where truffle pork with oyster mushroom dumplings are concerned.

Save room for mains as the Xinjiang cumin lamb ribs are a true menu masterpiece. With small bites, big bites, dumplings and desserts on offer, XièXiè is made for rallying the gang to maximise trying everything on the menu. Get to the grand opening this Thursday, December 7. 

Speciality Auckland Roasters Atomic Coffee Has Opened A New Chic Espresso Bar In The CBD

Image credit: Atomic Coffee Roasters | Instagram

Here cementing Aotearoa as one of the best in the biz when it comes to all things coffee is the latest opening from Atomic Coffee Roasters. The Auckland-based speciality roasters have just opened a new espresso bar on Graham Street in the CBD, offering that superb, speciality coffee experience we know and love from the talented team. 

While small, this fifth permanent set-up is perfectly sleek (and chic), boasting a deliberate, unfussy and uncomplicated feel. The complexity, however, lies within the coffee on offer. Known for taking no shortcuts when it comes to the perfect pour, the Atomic team is versed in crafting maximum flavour that delivers rich and robust extraction every single time. 

Along with ordering in your go-to six ounces, the new spot has a selection of sammies and sweet treats that’ll certainly trump your packed lunch, so you know what to do, go and see what all the rightful fuss is all about. 

A Hidden Korean Eatery And Bar Has Opened In Auckland And, It’s A Secret Spot Worth Sniffing Out 

Image credit: Ssam'Jang | Instagram

Hidden underground, with an interior inspired by old school streets is a brand new, secret and oh-so delicious Korean eatery. 

Along with sharing its name with a Korean dipping sauce, Ssam'Jang specialises in ssam dishes, meaning ‘wrapped’ in Korean, referring to the art of wrapping meat and rice inside (typically) a lettuce leaf wrap.

With that said, let us introduce you to the mixed ssam platter. Designed to be shared amongst friends, enjoy a big ol' serving of succulent pork cooked three ways, including grilled pork belly (samgyeopsal) and an array of sauces and leafy greens. From here, simply load up your leaf with meat, top with your desired sauce and voilà—the perfect pork parcel. 

Other notable dishes include the beef tartare (yukhoe)—subtly spiced and served with a crispy rice paper cracker to scoop and stuff away—and the spicy noodle soup (jjamppong) boasting chewy noodles, spicy seafood and melt-in-the-mouth pork, alongside a few of your five-a-day, of course. 

Would it be an underground Korean eatery without a little soju? You’ll be pleased to know there’s plenty—and well-priced at that. Sniff out Ssam'Jang for yourself on Lorne Street—if you can spot it, that is. 

A World-Class Dining Destination Is Opening In Arrowtown Next Week, Boasting An Array Of New Eateries And Bars In One Heavenly Heritage Site 

Image credit: Ayrburn | Instagram

If you were looking for another reason to take a vacay to the picture-perfect Otago region, the new premier dining precinct Ayrburn is sure to do the trick. Set between the snow-capped foothills of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, and just a hop, skip and sledge away from Arrowtown, is the region’s, if not the country’s, most exciting dining destination opening of the year.

Within a reimagined 150-year-old heritage building lies an array of world-class bars and eateries, welcoming guests of all ages through its doors to dine, drink, relax and, more importantly, have fun. 

Whether you’re looking for a special occasion supper or a post-mountain pour, Ayrburn has you covered. Eateries like The Woolshed are made for unfussy and uncomplicated casual dining, whereas the more adult-only Manure Room draws inspiration from hidden speakeasies, offering speciality wines from the area and beyond. 

A place that encourages anyone looking to celebrate special occasions and those looking to lounge on the lawns with sweet treats in tow, Ayrburn is shaping up to become your one-stop summer stop as it gears up for opening day on Saturday, 9 December. 

North Shore Residents, Get Ready For A Summer Of Soft-Serve Croissant Cones As Viral Bakery Luna Bakehouse Opens In Takapuna

Image credit: Luna Bakehouse | Instagram

News just in—Luna Bakehouse is coming to Takapuna. Everyone’s favourite OTT bakery and cakery is opening its third location soon (opening date TBC) in the heart of Takapuna, on Hurstmere Road, just a few doors down from the excellent Domo Bakery, and we're totally here for this new bakery hub.

Known for its innovative pastry offerings, classic croissant-filled cabinets and decadently decorated occasion cakes, North Shore residents, you’re certainly in for a treat (or two) when doors open. 

The passionate pastry team behind Luna Bakehouse is no stranger to viral sweet treat sensations, thanks to its queue-worthy soft-serve croissant cone creations. Having successfully transformed a typically buttery breakfast pastry into a cone, every few weeks or so, the creative croissant connoisseurs fill these cones with a rotating roster of special soft-serve flavours.

Previous flavours include Milo, Brown Sugar Bubble Tea and Biscoff. Along with these must-try ice cream creations, Luna Bakehouse is also recognised for its well-executed and perhaps more traditional pastries such as pain au chocolat and raspberry almond croissants. Of course, they often sneak in a limited edition supreme-filled croissant which, as you guessed, sell out like hot cakes croissants. 

Brothless Ramen Is The Latest (And Greatest) Dish To Touchdown In Aotearoa As Japanese Chain Kajiken Opens In Auckland

Image credit: Kajiken | Instagram

Having taken Japan and the rest of the world by storm, Kajiken has finally landed in New Zealand. The popular Japanese-born restaurant chain has just opened its first eatery on O'Connell Street in Auckland’s CBD, and locals are already enamoured with Kajiken's unique noodle offerings. At first glance, Kajiken may look like the new ramen kid on the block but upon closer inspection, you’ll see these big bowls are eschew broth. Enter Mazesoba. 

In essence, Mazesoba is a soupless ramen dish, with ‘maze’ meaning 'to mix' all of the fresh ramen noodles and various toppings in your bowl. Umami, spicy and blended special sauces pack punchy flavour, while toppings ranging from soft-boiled eggs, sliced pork and fresh veggies are available to add to your chewy bowl of noodles.

And that’s the beauty of Mazesoba—it’s completely customisable. Fancy going all out with all toppings and sauces? Knock your socks off. Wanna let the team do the work for you? Order one of the pre-built bowls, such as the Spicy Keema Curry with curry minced pork, noodles and poached egg—easy. Whatever you choose, Kajiken is always a good choice. 

A Chic And Contemporary Korean Skewer Eatery Has Opened In Browns Bay, Boasting Innovative Flavour Combos And Cocktails

Image credit: Dandi | Instagram

While you may already be familiar with juicy, lightly charred yakitori skewers from some of Auckland’s established Japanese hole-in-the-wall eateries (ahem, Tanuki's Cave), the new Browns Bay eatery Dandi is here to represent Korea’s offerings. Dandi is a new, contemporary Korean skewer bar offering speciality Korean skewers (traditionally known as Kochi) in a chic, minimalist space on Auckland’s North Shore. 

If you’re new to the world of Kochi, get ready to meet your new obsession. This popular street-food snack is, in its simplest form, charred skewers (typically meat). Dandi has taken this simple yet scrumptious street food snack and transformed it into an array of skewer-based dishes worthy of a special occasion lunch or dinner.

Like Kochi, the menu is simple—skewers are split into three sections (meat, seafood and vege), however, these Kochi combinations and flavours are far from. Options extend from slow-cooked soy-marinated short rib to garlic butter king prawns, and you’ll find that most skewers are served atop some form of posh mashed potato to add a little extra substance (and yum) to your skewer(s) of choice. Finish with a Korean cocktail or two and you're on for a truly memorable dinner. 

Karangahape Road Welcomes New South East Asian Eatery, Desa Corner, To The Neighbourhood

Image credit: Desa Corner | Nuan Sisi 

Karangahape Road is no stranger to standout eateries, and the popular foodie precinct has just welcomed yet another must-visit dining destination to its impressive restaurant portfolio.

Desa Corner is a new Southeast Asian restaurant located at the former spot of Hollywood Bakery on the corner of Mercury Lane and Karangahape Road, specialising in iconic and authentic Malaysian dishes. While large, this menu and its items don’t compromise on quality. From Nasi Lemak to Sizzling Yee Mee, Desa Corner has everyone’s cravings catered for—whether you’re accustomed to the cuisine or looking to try something new. 

Among the familiar favourites, you’ll find some lesser-found Malaysian dishes gracing the menu, including stuffed roti. Along with flaky, buttery plain varieties to dunk into your noodles, order in options such as the Roti Sarang Burung—a bird-nest shaped version filled with sunny side up eggs and served with a spiced, curry gravy—an invitation for dipping. We recommend wrangling the crew together so you can order as much of this equally extensive and delicious menu as possible. 

Cult Vegan Pâtisserie Maison Des Lys Is Opening A Second Bakery In Mount Eden Village

Image credit: Maison Des Lys | Instagram

Whether you’re vegan or not, you’re probably no stranger to the lines of people queuing for a freshly baked, flaky pastry creation from Maison des Lys and, chances are, you’ve been one of them. Whilst bearing all of the same (if not better) characteristics of a traditional, buttery croissant, at this Grey Lynn bakery, you won’t find any butter in sight—nor any other dairy or animal-based ingredients, for that matter. Yep, these perfectly laminated pastries are all plant-based. 

French-born, vegan owner Drissilla has struck the perfect balance between traditional French pâtisserie technique and a contemporary vegan ethos, baking sell-out vegan variations of pain suisse, pain au chocolat and hazelnut croissants.

And now, giving us double the chance to get our hands on one (or two) of these coveted croissants, Maison des Lys has just opened a second location in Mount Eden. What a time to be alive.

A New Bagel Eatery Is Opening On Ponsonby Road This Week With Free Bagels Up For Grabs On Opening Day

Image credit: Auckland Bagel Club | Instagram

Learning your ABCs has never been easier or tastier thanks to new bagel kid on the block, Auckland Bagel Club (ABC). Sharing the same location as Boss Don restaurant on Ponsonby Road, the new bagelry takes the art of perfecting chewy, dense, holey bagels very seriously and, you’ll be pleased to hear, they’ve cracked the code.

For the last week, the team behind the new bagel spot has been teasing a few of their soon-to-launch menu items, including plenty of fully loaded and filled bagel flavours. ABC specialises in open bagels, delivering double the topping fun and maximum ‘yum’.

The loaded ham bagel is a fine example of how sometimes more is more. Layers upon layers of house-cured, cooked and sliced ham top a daily baked sesame bagel, served with a dollop or two of tangy, homemade tartare sauce and a generous helping of cracked black pepper.

You thought we were done? Say hello to the almond bagel stuffed with cream cheese and a sticky, sugary syrup. 

Auckland Bagel Club will open on Friday, 24 November and, to celebrate, will be handing out 200 free bagels—see you there. 

A Popular Plant-Powered Filipino Restaurant Is Opening In Eden Terrace This Weekend

Image credit: Luntian | Instagram

When thinking of Filipino cooking, mouth-watering meat dishes such as kare-kare and lechón may be two that spring to mind for a cuisine known to celebrate all things carnivorous. However, the new Filipino eatery Luntian is here to shine this cuisine into a new, plant-powered spotlight. 

After adopting a vegan diet five years ago, Luntian owner Angel struggled to find Filipino food she could enjoy, so she made it her mission to create and serve her favourite Filipino flavours reimagined into just as (if not more) delicious vegan versions. And now, after successful sell-out market stalls, Luntian is getting ready to open the doors of its permanent location on Saturday, 18 November in Eden Terrace. 

With a menu designed to be enjoyed by both non and full-meat eaters, Angel wanted to create dishes that appealed to those already familiar with Filipino cuisine and first-timers. We’re secretly hoping Luntian's famous plant-based Filipino fried chicken will make a star appearance but, like you, we’ll have to wait and see for the full menu reveal as this innovative and experimental eatery gets ready to cut the ribbon on opening night. 

A New Creative Korean Cafe Has Opened In Uptown And It's Got Sunday Morning Sippin' Sorted

Image credit: Cafe Ditto | Instagram

Uptown is on one heck of a roll when it comes to new cafes. After the recent arrival of Holiday and Small Mercies, Cafe Ditto is the latest coffee spot to join the ranks. The new cafe is the passion project of owner Claire, who, after running a cafe in Seoul and more recently a brand design agency in New Zealand, has poured her love of creativity and coffee into the new space. 

The new cafe already boasts an effortless home-away-from-home feel, making early Saturday mornings a lot more bearable. Claire has filled the space with eclectic knick-knacks and Bauhaus-style seats, creating a warm and welcoming sanctuary reminiscent of a Pinterest-worthy living room.

Along with the day-to-day cafe, Claire is hoping to use the space as a creative hangout, hosting art classes and creative workshops at night. 

With a Korean background, you can expect some familiar favourites on the menu at Cafe Ditto. Along with the usual coffee culprits, there’s frothy iced matcha and seasonal specials, including the current tomato basil ade (a refreshing Korean sparkling drink that’s bound to become a new summer fave).

Sweet treat specialities include the kouign-amann (crispy, caramelised pastry) available in original, lemon, cinnamon and chocolate flavours. All in all Cafe Ditto is the perfect coffee spot stop off before meandering up Maungawhau and beyond. 

Mexico Launches New Summer Menu Celebrating All Things Tasty And Tequila

Image credit: Mexico | Supplied

Home to some of the nation’s best fried chicken and tasty tequila tipples—it can only be Mexico. And now, just in time for tacos and tequila al fresco, the much-loved Mexican restaurant chain is launching its brand spanking new summer menu and trust us, it’s the ultimate flavour fiesta, celebrating all things saucy, smokey, sticky and spicy. 

First up, taking centre stage in the small plates domain is the fresh fish ceviche, layered with juicy melon, pops of pomegranate seeds and chilli, served with a nest of crunchy corn shards a.k.a posh shredded chips.

It would be rude not to follow with a couple of tacos (each) and be sure to order in the new chipotle and lime-buttered smothered prawns for afters—a Mexico must if you will. But the fun doesn’t stop there—no sir.

Last but by no means least are three new margarita flavours, including sour lemon and yuzu and raspberry and rhubarb—don’t mind if we do. Mexico’s summer menu has after-work plans well and truly ticked off.

Premier Patisserie Mibo Has Opened A Second Bigger Bakery In Wynyard Quarter 

Image credit: Mibo | Instagram

After only opening the doors of its Mount Eden bakery just last February, one of Auckland’s premier patisseries, Mibo, opened its second spot in Wynyard Quarter on Monday. The spot, famed for its seven-day-a-week queues and pastries worth lining up for, has moved into a bigger space for Mibo 2.0, meaning more room to bake larger batches and more room for early risers to sit and savour their preferred pastries.

The new spot will act as Mibo’s mothership, delivering fresh pastries to the Mount Eden site every morning, and with more bakes, means less chance of selling out. Can we get an amen? 

Speaking of bakes, for those who aren’t already fluent in Mibo’s flaky pastries, if there’s one place to start, it’s the almond croissant. Here, a perfectly laminated pastry plays host to a crunchy, oozy almond filling topped with sugar-sprinkled slithered almonds. And yes, your shirt/car will inadvertently get covered—but boy, is it worth it. 

A New Dining, Drinking And Shopping Precinct Is Opening In Hamilton This Weekend

Image credit: Made | Instagram

Hamilton, say hello to your new date night, coffee stop and grocery shop drinking, dining and shopping destination—Made. Opening Saturday, November 4, the new urban precinct is a celebration of local businesses and recognised Kiwi names, offering a plethora of eateries, bars and shops to tick off in one trip. 

Open day and night, visitors to the Grey Street location can stop in for a cup of the good stuff at the new Grey Roasting Co space in the morning, pick up freshly made bread and deli bits from the indoor farmers market in the arvo, and stay for dinner at one of the many restaurants.

With the likes of Mezze, Burger Burger and The Green to choose from, Made is looking like an all-day affair and we’re certainly not mad about it. And, just in time for summer, the Made mezzanine will also open, providing an expansive rooftop deck to soak in the sunshine with a glass of Hāpi beer or wine from Amphora in hand.

Top it off with a spot of shopping at an irresistible array of independent boutiques and stores, and you're looking at a solid way to spend a Saturday, Sunday or all damn weekend.

A New Secret Specialist Coffee Spot Has Opened In Uptown And It’s Seriously Cool

Image credit: Holiday | Instagram

Tucked between a sushi spot and a cycling shop in Uptown is a new coffee spot, Holiday. With only a small decal on the door revealing its location already, Holiday feels like a local hangout secret you’ll want to be in on.

The space itself is just as intentionally laidback—timber cladding lines the walls, simple bench seating surrounds the perimeter and bare concrete on the floors. It’s the perfect marriage of industrial edge and minimalist chic. 

But one component of Holiday is not so simple—the coffee. Taking centre stage on the wooden bench is the KVDW espresso machine—an impressive feat of caffeine engineering designed to deliver unrivalled coffee and that it does.

Despite being open for just a couple of days, Holiday is quickly making a name for itself as the one to watch when it comes to superb coffee—a craft the team have successfully mastered. There are a couple of sandwich options to choose from that showcase simple flavour combinations within thick, rustic baguettes. All in all, Holiday truly is a secret worth shouting about. 

Meet Norma Taps—A New Bar And Refillery From The Team Behind Honest Rum

Image credit: Norma Taps | Supplied

From the team who brought us the most lip-smackingly sumptuous rum range, the dynamic duo behind Honest presents Auckland with their latest project, Norma Taps. 

Described as an Honest pop-up bar and refillery, the City Works Depot location gives a new outlook on sustainable dining and drinking. The premise is a bar of 24 carefully curated taps, eliminating single-use bottles and allowing for a quicker, swifter service. While the contents of said taps are still under wraps, it’s sure to be nothing short of delish. 

Of course, in true Honest fashion, there'll also be a slick menu of new batch crafted cocktails, premium spirits, wines and even bevs for designated drivers. And where food is concerned, with a little help from their friends at Auckland pop-up pizza frita place Passa Passa, Norma Taps has you covered with a menu of Italian dishes and light bites—YUM.

Norma Taps is scheduled to open Thursday, November 9, and we can’t wait to join, what we expect, plenty of you on their opening night. 

Cult Coffee Shop Receptionist Opens A New Auckland City Location And, It’s Just As Superb 

Image credit: Receptionist | @struancaughey

From a hole-in-the-wall set-up to permanent digs on Little High Street, now, uber-chic coffee shop Receptionist has opened a third spot in Auckland's CBD. There’s simply no stopping the suit-wearing team who, over the last few years, have grown from strength to strength, earning their spot in a list of 'Auckland’s best cafes worth bragging about'. 

The new spot, tucked off Queen Street, differs in decor from its Little High Street sister. Terracotta tiles line the walls from floor to ceiling, creating a warm sanctuary with more seating than before. However, one thing remains the same—Receptionist's ability to craft incredible cups of coffee and bake some of the city's most delectable artisan pastries. Special mention to their almond croissant, which alone is a reason worth leaving the comfort of your couch for. 

A New Cafe Is Coming To Epsom This November And It’s Got ‘New Local Hangout’ Written All Over It

Image credit: Epsom Corner | Instagram

Epsom, you’re up. Coming soon to Manukau Road is a new cafe on the block, Epsom Corner. Opening sometime in November, while much is still to be revealed, this new neighbourhood cafe is quietly confident it’ll become your new local hangout. 

What we do know is a seasonal menu of classic yet contemporary brunch items will take centre stage within the heritage building location, with ample space for the whole family to relax. And with caffeine legends Supreme Coffee leading the cappuccino charge, we’re in the safest hands. More details as they emerge.

A Secret Gin Garden Is Popping Up In Ponsonby This Summer

Image credit: The Broken Lantern | Supplied

Everyone’s favourite Ponsonby road haunt The Broken Lantern is transforming into a gorgeous Scapegrace Secret Garden this summer and you’re invited to the launch party. 

Kicking off on Thursday 19 October from 6pm, the Art Dept and Scapegrace have collaborated to transform the courtyard into a vibrant summer gin garden pop-up that will champion summer flavours and the delectable Scapegrace range.

Expect concoctions like Blood Orange & Balsamic Strawberry Frose, several different kinds of Sangria, a versatile Negroni menu that can also be savoured as Sbagliato, sophisticated G&Ts, and an exquisite assortment of Spritz cocktails, all of which will change regularly over the coming summer months. In short? You've found your new summer hang.  

The Sweetest Collab—Ben & Jerry's And Tony's Chocolonely Join Forces To Make Chocolate 100% Slave Free

Image credit: Ben & Jerry's | Supplied

Sweet tooths take note, Ben & Jerry's and Tony's Chocolonely, two heavyweights known for championing social justice, have just collabed on three drool-worthy new products to tackle modern slavery and child labour that sadly still goes on in the chocolate industry.

Ben & Jerry's has dropped their brand new "Chocolatey Love A-Fair" which takes inspiration from Tony's milk chocolate caramel sea salt and smooshes it together with rich chocolate ice cream, salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks, and sea salt fudge chunks. Ooft.

On the flip side, Tony's Chocolonely is launching two chocolate bars inspired by Ben & Jerry's beloved ice cream flavours of Dark Milk Brownie and White Strawberry Cheesecake.

This partnership isn't just a delight for fans of both brands; it's a proactive step toward making the cocoa farming industry more ethical and just. It's a delectable way to lend support to an essential cause while indulging in some guilt-free treats. Who can say fairer than that? Find these treats at Farro Fresh, selected supermarkets, Ben & Jerry’s stores nationwide and here for the chocolate. 

A Colourful New Korean Doughnut Shop Has Just Opened In Grafton 

Image credit: Small Mercies | Instagram

Auckland is certainly no stranger to remarkable Korean food but amongst the fried chicken and bibimbap, our sweet teeth have been feeling a little left out. Enter the new Korean sweet-treat eatery, Small Mercies. The colourful hole-in-the-wall bakery is the brainchild of owners Mikey and Eunsun, who wanted to bring a slice of Korean cafe culture to its Grafton residence. 

Fluffy, doughy treats are the name of the game at Small Mercies and within the cabinet, you'll find their core offerings such as chapssal (filled rice-flour donut holes) and yakgwa (Korean honey cake). 

However, much like its abstract exterior, some of Small Mercies' offerings are just as innovative and here to shake up the Korean bakery game. The team have incorporated innovative twists on familiar favourites where flavours such as tiramisu or brown cheese (a game-changer) steal the sugar-sprinkled spotlight. 

Creating a space that felt like a home away from home was top of Mikey and Eunsun's agenda—a spot where customers turn into familiar first-name basis friends. We're confident this cosy and colourful hangout will deliver just that. The best part? They're open from today so there's only one way to find out. 

Chocolate Store Cocoa Wilds Has Opened In Auckland CBD Giving Willy Wonka A Run For His Money

Image credit: Cocoa Wilds | Instagram

Meet Cocoa Wilds, the brainchild of chocolate connoisseur Byron McLean. Byron's journey started with a simple quest: to bring the joy of fine chocolate craft and production to the heart of Auckland.

After a year of meticulous, and what we imagine, delicious research across Europe’s chocolate capitals, Byron returned to New Zealand with a suitcase full of samples, ready to bring his dream of an O'Connell Street chocolatier store to life.

After opening its doors last week, it’s clear to see the rewards of Byron’s hard work within the hand-crafted chocolates that line the glass cabinets. Everything on offer at Cocoa Wilds celebrates the 'bean to bar' mentality in its purest and most decadent form.

Lovingly crafted with the finest ingredients and with minimal preservatives in sight, these handmade chocolates are designed to be savoured at the peak of their deliciousness, meaning you won’t catch them in cabinets for long—especially when we’re around. Alongside his own chocolate creations, Cocoa Wilds stocks an assortment of other independent chocolate bars and bites—call it a celebration of world-class cocoa if you will. 

Now, it would be a disservice not to mention Cocoa Wilds pièce de résistance: their signature hot chocolate station. Say goodbye to powdered mixes and subpar imitations. These hot choccies are made with the finest cocoa grounds, melted and then blended with milk to create a luxuriously thick and creamy chocolate concoction inspired by the iconic creations of Europe. You’ve simply got to see it (and taste it) to believe it, folks.

Thick And Juicy Tonkatsu Fillets Have Arrived In Newmarket As Katsu Katsu Opens Its Doors

Image credit: Katsu Katsu | Instagram

ICYMI, Katsu Katsu has arrived in Newmarket. After opening just a few weeks ago, the authentic, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery has already received rave reviews and packed-out services. And we’re not surprised for one second. 

If the name didn’t give it away, Katsu Katsu specialises in thick and juicy crumbed fillets of pork (tonkatsu) and chicken (torikatsu), cooked to melt-in-the-mouth perfection. This simple star of the show is served the traditional way—accompanied by authentic side dishes such as miso, rice and cabbage slaw, which the team top up for free as you dine.

Like traditional eateries in Japan, Katsu Katsu operates an open-kitchen policy so those lucky enough to perch on the high stools can marvel as katsu fillets sizzle. 

Aside from all things crumbed, you’ll find classic udon dishes such as the kake udon (a simple yet hearty broth with noodles) and the iconic street snack, takoyaki (fried octopus bites). Wash it down with a highball or sake for a true taste of Japan.

What else is new? Here are the best new openings in Auckland you need to check out.

Main image credit: Heart Of The City | B Beattie.

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