AUCKLAND

We are devastated to say goodbye to our beloved purveyor of sugary treats, Sweet & Me, and wish Bert all the best for his future plans. Eden Cloak Room has returned as a European-style bistro bar and courtyard with the original owner Darren Tolley back behind the bar. All soft curves, crisp stripes and pretty pastels flooded in natural light, Honey Springs in Onehunga is a new spot in this increasingly cool neighbourhood. When happy hour calls, we can think of nothing better than frozen margaritas at Dos Donkeys in Commercial Bay (head to where Ghost Donkey used to live). Whether you like your sandwiches toasted until crusty at the edges so the cheese can be pulled a mile, or naked in all their glory, Wigmore Deli in Kingsland has your heart’s desire. You certainly can’t miss Taco Loco on Garnet Rd, Westmere, its vivid fit-out and equally exuberant food clamouring for attention. We love the makeover at Sandringham favourite Okra, and we’re pleased that all our menu faves remain – cornflakes on French toast shouldn’t work, but they do! We don’t have many details yet but we’re too excited to keep this to ourselves – Michael and Annette Dearth of Baduzzi are powering ahead with  a new Italian venture at Smales Farm led by head chef Federico Schincariol.

HASTINGS

Eat round the world with Restaurant Ari’s 2026 World Series, one-night- only set-menu dinners that take you to Nigeria in July, Brazil in August and Japan in September.

WELLINGTON

With brunch in the sunny courtyard, Superfina on Cuba St has already wowed us – add their speciality mezcal and margaritas and we’ll make a day of it.

CHRISTCHURCH

Already established with Odeon and Strawberry Fare, you’d think Shafeeq Ismail had his hands full, but this hospo multi-tasker has now opened Edizi, an all-day winner on Gloucester St – as they say, ‘From your first coffee to your last glass’.