IN BRIEF

Intimate dining that will surprise, intrigue and delight.

WHY CHOOSE THIS RESTAURANT?

If you are looking for a creative and thoughtful beginning- to-end dining experience, this is food that is at once delicious and artful from one of New Zealand’s best up-and-coming chefs.

ABOUT THE FOOD

Alta offers a concise, set 4-course menu that changes as the seasons progress. Carrot is smoked and tightly rolled, set upon creamy cashew and caper, for the most tender, intense, plant-based ‘bacon’ you have tasted. Raw snapper delicately encloses a sweet and bitter flavour explosion of creamy brown rice and smoky orange. Perfectly medium-rare lamb is enveloped in sweet pepper and tangy sheep’s yoghurt, complemented by grilled bitter witlof glazed with oyster. You can add to the set menu with a few selected snacks or sides, including the now celebrated seafood platter – a well-balanced selection of cooked/pickled/raw bites which might include ceviche on a fish-skin cracker, tart pickled mussel and a smoky fish ball. It sounds simple but there is always a deliciously surprising combination of flavours, textures, colours and shapes. The beautiful nasturtium wall in the garden was heavily influencing the menu when we visited. What will it be next time? We can’t wait to find out.

ABOUT THE CHEF

We developed a yearning for Georgia van Prehn’s cooking at the innovative Scotch Wine Bar in Blenheim. As owner/chef of Alta, van Prehn has really honed her skills and allowed her creativity to grow, often elevating the simple into something cerebral, elegant and very beautiful. The flow of the menu is exceptional with van Prehn considering every aspect from beginning to end.

ABOUT THE TEAM

A very small, tight team with full understanding of the menu and wine list. Attentive yet unobtrusive, the service has that modern feel that bridges the gap between fine dining and casual.

OF NOTE

The set 4-course menu helps reduce waste and allows the keen understanding from the small team of superb wait staff. There is an extensive and well-chosen wine list that is natural-focussed, along with artful cocktails and non-alcoholic choices.

366 Karangahape Rd, Auckland
Check website for opening hours
MAINS: Set menu $95pp + supplements
WEBSITE: 366krd.co.nz