What we’re eating and drinking: issue 97

There’s no rest for the food-obsessed... when the dish team isn’t bringing you delicious recipes, we’re out there trawling far and wide in search of tasty fare. We share our latest favourite haunts.

Sarah Tuck, editor

Azabu, Auckland: Now also located in Mission Bay, I tootled along
to Azabu in Ponsonby for a few drinks (negronis as usual…) and some
delicious bites. The staff were attentive and accommodating, and the
food tasty. I got stuck into the Edamame with Smoked Lime Salt before
the Heirloom Tomato with Lemon Mayo, Jalapeňo, Mint, Basil, Almonds and Coriander, which was packed with flavour. Another stand out was the Ceviche Tasting Platter featuring snapper with aji amarillo, tuna with yuzu chipotle and, my favourite, salmon with leche de tigre. The Artichoke Dumplings were a delicious revelation, slightly less so the Eggplant Tempura, but I’m willing to give it another go on my next visit! The layout means that even accommodating plenty of punters it still feels spacious and relaxed. savor.co.nz/azabu-ponsonby

Claire Aldous, food editor

Rosie, Auckland: A favourite for a catch-up with mates, visits to Rosie embrace fantastic seasonal food, in a chic space. I’m up for anything on their menu but recent meals have included the Twice-cooked Sweetcorn Soufflé, Otamita Valley Lamb Shoulder with Potato Bread, Hummus and Tzatziki and the spaghetti with Scampi, Tomato, Chilli and Spiced Butter… SO GOOD. rosieparnell.nz

Karrin MacLeod, business manager

Te Koi, The Lodge at Bronte, Nelson: This has to be the most beautiful place to stay in Nelson. The food they create is beyond amazing. Breakfast – the best homemade toasted muesli served with Viavio yogurt...was the start of never wanting to leave.  Lunch was Spinach and Ricotta Gnudi – soft pillows of delicousness finished with burnt sage butter...I’m in love.  Perfectly matched with Kina Cliffs Sauv Blanc. Followed by Roasted Autumn fruits from their orchard served with roasted marmalade and a dash of cognac and fresh fig topped with champagne sabayon... in heaven. tekoithelodge.com

Yvonne Lorkin, drinks editor

Bay Espresso, Hastings: Bay Espresso on Karamu Road North, just minutes from the Hastings CBD, is my breakfast go-to for the best Creamy Mushrooms in the known universe, sitting on top of their crunchy-fluffy hash browns, with a side of black pudding by Hawke’s Bay’s Wild Game Salamis – too good! bayespresso.co.nz

Síana Clifford, sub editor

The Mussel Inn, Golden Bay: I loved this spot on a visit to Golden Bay. It’s a gem comprising a café, bar, on-site brewery and performance venue, that couldn’t be more laid-back. It’s a come-as-you-are kinda place with hearty fare to match. Don’t go past the Steamed Mussels or Mussel Chowder. The beers and ciders are unfiltered, unpasteurised, made from local ingredients, including homegrown hops, and brewed next door. musselinn.co.nz

Catherine Steel, sub editor

There’s something to be said for an eatery that is all about food; humble décor, plastic chairs and little room to move don’t matter when the dishes are so tasty. This busy Dominion Road spot offering boasts Sichuan cuisine such as Dumplings in Spicy and Sour Soup, Cucumber Salad and Dandan Noodles. For a spice and savoury kick, this place hits the spot.
@edennoodles

Conor Fox, art director

Smiths Bar, Matakana:Smiths at the Matakana Country Park has been a favourite of mine for a while now. Their deep dish marinated Pork Belly Pizza and Reuben Sliders with pastrami, smoked cheese and sauerkraut are to die for. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! smithsmatakana.co.nz

Gochu, Auckland CBD:The XO noodles are back, baby!
Korean restaurant Gochu in Commercial Bay is my new absolute favourite spot. Try the Charred Chicken with Gochujang, Comté Cheese and Leek Sauce or the Spicy Pork and Kimchi Milk Bun. YUM. gochugotyou.co.nz 

Liam Carr, digital producer

Masu, Federal Street:The pronunciation of Masu’s menu items may leave you tongue-tied, but your taste buds will thank you. The Sake Teriyaki (king salmon teriyaki) is so tender it may just fall off your chopsticks if you’re not quick! The Wagyu Kimchi Gyoza will almost certainly disappear as soon as your waiter sets them down on your table. If you enjoy deep-fried foods but like things classy, don’t look past the staggeringly large Prawn Tempura.
skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/masu