Labour Day is right around the corner and what better way to spend the long weekend than by escaping the city for a few days? You’d be surprised at how much of a difference a weekend away can make, sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need. While you take yourself to new surroundings, use this as your chance to experience the culinary scene, outside of town at these eateries.
The Bearded Weasel
Hamilton
Fried chicken and beer is a pairing that is loved by the masses and The Bearded Weasel is rumoured to serve some of the best in Hamilton. Make sure you order the fried chicken sando as apparently it rivals some of the top names in Auckland.
Bistronomy
Napier
Fresh, foraged flavours are what you will find at Napier’s contemporary restaurant, Bistronomy. The menu changes depending on the season and the dishes only feature the best of the best ingredients, ensuring that everything that comes out of its kitchens is top quality.
Tantalus Estate
Waiheke Island
When in doubt, take a ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island. A trip to this island would be incomplete without a visit to at least one winery, and one of our favourites is Tantalus Estate. From the elegant ambience to the delicious food and drinks, a day at Tantalus is always a good idea.
Palace
Mt Maunganui
It would be rude not to visit Palace if you were taking a trip to the Mount. This burger restaurant is a Mt. Maunganui icon and some Aucklanders claim that they have driven down JUST to get a taste of its double cheeseburger. (It’s that good.)
Aosta
Arrowtown
Inspired by the intricate cooking techniques of Northern Italy and paired with the premium-quality produce of Arrowtown and Central Otago, Aosta is the new restaurant by renowned chef Ben Bayly, and reflects an elevated, European sensibility in a Kiwi-centric fashion.
Kika
Wanaka
Situated in the lively and idyllic town of Wanaka is this innovative restaurant that is owned and operated by award-winning chef, James Stapley. Kika delivers flavours from all around the world, as well as boasting a carefully-curated wine list and is touted as a must-visit for all New Zealanders.
Loretta
Wellington
Not only is Wellington the capital of New Zealand, but it’s also the foodie capital of our country. Visiting this city just to do a food tour is completely appropriate and more common than you might think. One of our favourite spots is Loretta. The all-day eatery serves up simple but expertly done dishes including a chicken schnitzel that is out of this world.
