The domain of skilled hosts Michael and Annette Dearth, The Grove is a fine-dining restaurant that has consistently held a place among New Zealand’s top contenders. Head chef Kira Ghidoni is originally from Switzerland and she took up the gauntlet here in 2017. Ghidoni knows a thing or two about fine dining, having worked at Fera at Claridge’s in London and Vue de Monde in Melbourne. The dégustation format remains the same, with four- or seven-course options available. You might try fish crudo with burnt coconut sauce or confit potato served in a cloud of potato foam. The desserts are showstoppers as Ghidoni’s exceptional technique with pastry comes into play. The service levels are warm and engaging with a professional focus and the superb wine list provides a diversity of European and New Zealand varietals.

IN BRIEF Seamless dégustation dining