What we’re eating and drinking: Issue 99

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, for when lockdown levels allow.

Sarah Tuck, editor

Annabel’s, Auckland: This is more of a drinking location suggestion rather than a dining one – despite the food being utterly delicious. Annabel’s is everything you want in a neighbourhood bar, and, to my mind, perfect for any outing. In the last few weeks before Level 4 lockdown, I popped in on three occasions – for a catch up with a girlfriend, a drinks date and to celebrate my eldest son’s birthday. Each time there was a deliciously disparate mix of customers – singles, families, friends and couples enjoying a night out (young and old). Drawn together by the low-key, sophisticated yet casual vibe, punters can choose from a small but interesting selection of wine and classic cocktails (the Negronis are always mightily delectable) and a pared-back snacks menu. I’m always perfectly happy to nibble on some of their outrageously good, plump green olives, selection of sensational cheeses served with wafer thin crostini/bruschetta or luscious pâté. There are tempting bigger plates too, but somehow those smaller bites always seem to be exactly what I need. annabelswinebar.com

Claire Aldous, food editor

Omni, Auckland: Omni means ‘all’ and this little gem on Dominion Rd has it all going on in all the right ways. It bravely opened just after lockdown last year and has been a regular on my go-to list for eating out. On offer is a selection of yakitori; chicken thighs, wings, hearts and more, all cooked to smoky perfection. There’s a featherlight Japanese milk bread pork katsu sandwich, batons of crispy tempura eggplant in a sticky miso glaze, a refreshing cabbage and sesame salad and much more. Omni has so much to enjoy, including a wide-open kitchen – perfect for a kitchen voyeur like me! atomni.co.nz

Liam Carr, digital editor

Good Home, Mount Eden: I’ve been coming to GOODHOME in Mt Eden for years and it consistently lives up to its name, offering a cosy, relaxed pub atmosphere and a hearty, delicious menu. From nachos to burgers and all the other classic pub fare, neither I, nor anyone else who accompanies me, have left dissatisfied. If you’re game, try the Dish of the Moment; last time I visited, it was a behemoth of a burger the size of my head! thegoodhomemteden.co.nz

Maddie Ballard, deputy editor

Federal Delicatessen, Auckland: I never tire of this SkyCity spot, with its retro counter stools, too-drinkable cocktails and reliable diner-style menu. Get the Chicken Salad Sandwich with dipping gravy – fresh is my favourite but many swear by toasted – and a big plate of Poutine to share, then sink into one of the cosy booths along the wall. Obviously, you’ll need the pie flight to finish, no matter how full you are. The New York Baked Cheesecake is pretty special, but make sure you include a slice of the Banana and Toffee, too. thefed.co.nz

Karrin MacLeod, business manager

Prego, Auckland: Our story on Prego in this issue got me thinking about how much I love eating there with my beautiful daughter, Miller Rose. We go for a table where we can snuggle up, side by side on the banquette seating, and always order the same things. We start with garlic pizza bread and aioli, then for mains, I have the Calamari Fritti and MR goes for the Prego Pie. Sides? Roasted garlic and rosemary potatoes or white polenta fries with truffle salt and seasonal veg… washed down with a bottle of Vouvray. This would be my perfect last meal. prego.co.nz

Yvonne Lorkin, drinks editor

Mary’s, Havelock North: Mary’s is a groovy little spot on Joll Road in Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay, and I LOVE their fried halloumi, walnut and beetroot salad with orange dressing and their pancetta-packed gnocchi “carbonara” with black pepper and peas is perfecto. PLUS they do an Apple Crumble Baked Cheesecake which, frankly, will be the death of me. marys.co.nz

Conor Fox, art director

Kneads All Day, Hobsonville: A new fave brunch spot! I have taken to having brunch here with friends and fam. Their eggs bene with short rib is to-die-for, totally fantastic. kneadsallday.co.nz 
Ruang Thong Thai, Mount Albert: My favourite spot on Uber Eats! I spent Level 4 longingly scrolling through their menu only to remember what I could look but not eat. Definitely reccommend the Massaman Curry with Beef or Yellow Curry with Chicken.ruangthongthai.co.nz