Sabato

The Verdict

Calling all Auckland foodies. Heaven IS a place on earth and it involves copious amounts of cheese, decadent chocolate and gourmet goodies (and even more cheese, obvs).

You’ll stumble upon these heavenly delights at Sabato (aka Auckland’s most incredible food store, like, ever) in Mount Eden. The fine food shop wonderland imports artisan European treats for your eating pleasure. Think: rich chocolate, flavoursome sauces, comforting pasta and more cheeses than you ever imagine.

Tucked off Normanby Road, Sabato is the brainchild of Phil and Jacqui Dixon who have been sourcing the world’s tastiest treats since ’93. Sabato specialises in goodies from Italy, Spain and France—as well as hand-picked New Zealand products. Most of the suppliers are small businesses who use traditional methods of production. The result? Incredible artisan products that are all sorts of delish.

Now in their 25th year, the store is celebrating its birthday in exceptional style. Every month, they’re showcasing a key supplier with crazy discounts and offers. 

The store itself is like a pirate’s treasure trove of deliciousness. Step inside and the friendly, knowledgeable folk will be quick to offer you a complimentary cuppa (and a nibble of whatever’s baking in the oven). Pro tip: time your visit around midday on a Saturday to catch a cooking demo of their weekly recipe.

Let yourself be drawn to the delicatessen where their on-site cheesemonger Calum (he’s a total cheesexpert) is only too happy to share his knowledge… and give you samples! Sabato’s got all your faves including blue, comté, edam, brie, local New Zealand cheeses and to-die-for Parmigiano Reggiano that’s imported from Italy as a mammoth 40kg wheel. Keep tabs on Sabato’s social channels for cheese-themed events—including an upcoming cheese and beer night (watch this space!). 

But the scrumptiousness doesn’t stop there and the much-loved Robyn is also only too happy to show you what’s tasing good. Build the perfect antipasto platter with prosciutto, olives, anchovies, nuts… the list goes on. Be sure to include Sabato’s signature chutneys, pesto and bruschetta, handcrafted with love and packed with flavour.

Then there’s Sabato’s artisan pasta range that showcases everything from pappardelle to gnocchi (we love Girolomoni’s organic creations). Pair with a jar of their handcrafted sauces and you’ve got a delish meal in an instant. Grab a bottle (or two) of their oils and vinegars… and nab a bag of crunchy truffle chips—they’re also divine.

No visit to Sabato is complete without checking out their incredible chocolate and confectionery collection. You’ll find Valrhona chocolate (the chocolate used to make Miann’s creations) as well as liquorice, jellies and pastilles. 

There’s no doubt about it: Sabato is making Auckland a whooole lot tastier. Celebrate their 25th birthday at the Mount Eden store or shop online. It’s their birthday and YOU get to eat the goodies!

 Image credit: Jared Donkin & Kellie Blizard