What We're Eating and Drinking: Issue 117

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 good-value go-to’s.

Claire Aldous, Food Editor
Cheese on Toast, Three Kings:

This hole-in-the-wall cult sandwich shop has epic toasties starting at $10. From Braised Pork Belly (Sichuan spices, green capsicum and ginger sauce) to Truffle Mushroom (sautéed white and portobello mushrooms, onion, garlic and truffle oil), there are no bad choices. Add in a Raspberry White Chocolate Cookie or a piece of Rocky Road and you’re probably still under $20. cheeseontoast.nz, @cheeseontoastnz

Satya Chai Lounge, Sandringham:

Offering well-priced fun Indian street food along with cocktails and more than 200 craft beers, two of my must- orders are Chicken 65 and the Dahi Puri. It’s definitely not your traditional Indian eatery but it’s always fun and super delicious. satya.co.nz, @satyakrd

Nishiki, Freemans Bay:

This is a local favourite and the Dumplings, HotPot, Crunchy Prawn Mayo Rolls and Sushi are always fresh and appear quick-smart out of their kitchen. nishikifreemansbay.nz, @nishiki_freemansbay_nz

Caitlin Whiteman, Digital Editor
Broke Boy Taco, Mount Albert:

I finally caved to the hype and checked out the sidewalk sensation! And if you’re chronically indecisive like me, I think you should too. The menu keeps it simple with beef tacos, quesadillas, chips with guac and a fridge jam-packed with nothing but coke. My only advice is don’t forget your napkins to help with all of the saucy deliciousness. brokeboytaco.com, @brokeboytaco

Chrisanne Terblanche, Art Director
Udon Works, Mount Eden:

Tucked away on the quieter end of Dominion road is Udon Works, a charming cosy Japanese spot known for serving some of best noodles in Auckland. My favourite is the Prawn Tempura Udon – the tempura is light and crispy and the noodles deliciously chewy. Comfort in a bowl. The portions are generous and if udon is not your thing the Donburi is also delicious. And of course you can never go wrong with Karaage Chicken. @udonworks

Bel Bonnor, Commercial Manager
Mr Go’s, Wellington:

Excellent value for money and great vibes for a casual Asian fusion dinner. This spot is always bustling and always delicious – and the novelty cocktails are a fun point of difference! mrgos.co.nz, @mrgosnz

Aunty Mena’s Vegetarian Café, Wellington:

You don’t have to be plant-based to LOVE the food here! Aunty Mena’s continues to outdo itself on flavour and value. Highly recommend the laksa and a pot of green tea for a nourishing, delicious dinner.

Síana Clifford Sub-editor
Eden Noodles, various:

For a budget-friendly eat I reckon it’s hard to beat a body-and-soul-warming bowl of Eden Noodles’ (in)famous Dumplings in Spicy Sauce. The pork and chive dumplings (there’s chicken, vegetarian and another pork option too) are handmade and the spicy soup is packed full of lip-smacking (and numbing!) Sichuan flavours. Because they're such good value you can afford to put in the work to make your way up to extra spicy level – if you dare... @edennoodles