What We're Eating and Drinking: Issue 123

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

I can think of no better restaurant in Melbourne to celebrate my son’s 30th birthday than here — from service to environment to food and wine, everything is on point. For this very special occasion we started with the Anchovy, Fried Bread, Ricotta, and Pickled Cucumber, the utterly delicious Duck and Pork Croquette with Prune Vinegar, and the Stracciatella, Pickled Mushrooms, Chive Oil and Potato Focaccia (which I’m keen to try replicating). For mains we had the Caserecce (pasta), Jerusalem Artichoke, Cimi de Rapa and Pangrattato, and the Market Fish with White Bean Ragu, Pickled Fennel, and Fine Herbes. Growing up I often made Henry his favourite whole orange cake for his birthdays, so it seemed only appropriate to finish with the Orange and Almond Cake, Mascarpone, Bergamot, complete with birthday candles! Whether for a special occasion or everyday celebration, The Carlton Wine Room won’t disappoint. thecarltonwineroom.com.au, @thecarltonwineroom

Named after the owners’ beloved pup, Smuchi Bambuchi, this fabulous suburban gem in Hataitai, Wellington, radiates warmth the moment you step through the door. The buzz of happy diners, the hum of good conversation, and the delicious aromas drifting from the kitchen all promise a great night ahead. The menu leans into sharing plates, is entirely gluten-free, and full of punchy, bold flavours. Go with a few friends and, honestly, just order everything. The menu’s small enough to make it doable, and everything we had was a knockout. The Crispy Rice Cakes with Sesame and Black Vinegar; Butter-poached Prawns with Coconut and Curry Leaves; and the tender Beef and Ricotta Meatballs with Sun-dried Tomato Aioli and Aged Cheddar. Every dish was totally moreish and beautifully balanced. Communication from
super friendly wait staff meant their suggestion that dishes can be easily scaled-up so everyone gets a bite, was very welcome as no one wanted to share their rice cake! And if the Ice Cream Sundae with Cream Puff is on the menu, please 7 don’t leave without trying it, it’s joy in a bowl. bambuchisan.com, @bambuchisan

While in Wellington judging the NZ Spirits Awards I was VERY fortunate to be treated to dinner at Highwater (highwatereatery.co.nz, @highwatereatery). I’ve eaten there two or three times before and the dribbling inevitably begins when the food arrives on the table. The slow-roasted, fall-off- the-bone Advieh Te Mana Lamb Shoulder with Minty Sirkanjabin was particularly salivating when spooned up alongside their Fried Cauliflower, Almond Whip, Green Olives, Capers, Golden Raisin and Curry Leaf concoction. Woof! The next day it was an absolutely epic lunch at Loretta (loretta.nz, @lorettaoncuba). I mean when is any dining at Loretta on Cuba Street any less than legendary right? I’ve now written in my will that I must be buried with a large bowl of their Chicken Liver Parfait, complete with a puddle of chai spiced maple and black pepper in the middle. And their Crispy Chilli, Chorizo, Prawns, Mozzarella, Tomato and Chives Wood-fired Sourdough Pizza was quite possibly the greatest pizza I’ve ever hoovered.

Why are premium buffet restaurants not more of a thing? No, seriously, you get full control over what’s on your plate, the ability to try three different desserts at once, and at Stratosfare you’re doing it 500 metres above the ground, overlooking Queenstown and the Wakatipu Basin — dreamy! As Kiwis I think we can overlook experiences that are popular among tourists, but I urge you to give them a go because I can assure you that the grin didn’t leave my face, especially on the gondola ride up. queenstown.skyline.co.nz

Noble. is a fresh new face in Dunedin’s café scene, serving up creative but wholesome breakfast, brunch and lunch items. The menu puts a creative spin on classics, think Beef Cheek Benny with jalapeño verde or Cauliflower Toast with haloumi and apple-miso dressing. It’s food that looks as good as it tastes. The cabinet’s packed with freshly baked goodies like almond croissants, matcha cookies, and hearty focaccia sandwiches. The drinks selection is great, with fresh juices and specialty cold brews. The tiramisu option is a standout, like dessert in a glass. With its warm vibe and thoughtful food, Noble. is a place worth lingering at. nobledunedin.co.nz, @noble.dunedin

Mad FOMO from all the Insta posts about Euro summer? Take yourself to your nearest European eatery tout suite to ease any envy. Bistro Saine is the perfect stand-in for a Parisian brasserie with a faultless feast of croquettes, comté and pommes two ways (dauphine and purée), plus a stand-out Steak Frites— ooh la la! bistrosaine.co.nz, @bistrosaine

I was lucky to have a wonderful Friday night at Palazzo Salato in Sydney last month. The mood is set the minute you walk in with the gorgeous décor and lighting; the ambiance is sophisticated while still feeling vibrant and fun! Every dish is classic yet surprising; I’m still thinking about their Stracciatella di Buffala and their showstopping handmade pastas. Their Bottoni of ‘Nduja and their Mafaldine with Spanner Crab left our very chatty table speechless. Spectacular wine list, desserts and cocktails too, with excellent service. What’s not to love?! Be sure to head downstairs to check out Palazzo Salato’s sister restaurant/bar, Letra House, too. Hospitality done right! palazzosalato.com, @palazzosalato