Elizabeth Cafe and Larder: A royal occasion every time

Elizabeth Cafe and Larder
Cnr Cameron Rd and Elizabeth St, Tauranga
Ph: 579 0950

When a cafe bears one's name, one should make as many appearances as possible.

Since Elizabeth opened just over a month ago I've been for coffee, met friends for lunch (choosing from the cabinet or the menu) and generally hung out there.

I love the open airy atmosphere, the Pop Art decor, the variety of seating _ from high benches to perch at and standard cafe tables, to low seats on the other side of the double-sided fireplace. The warmer weather sees the large doors slid back for terrace dining, and a view of the trees across Elizabeth St. The Queen Elizabeth is referenced in the colourful cartoon panels of this new cafe, which is already attracting many loyal subjects.

Prices: As little or as much during the day. Dinner is on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and starts with a range of tapas at $11 each, mains $27 to $29, sides all $7, and sweets $12 (unless you share a $20 tasting plate).

On the menu: The dinner menu invites you to enjoy after-work drinks with tapas or choose one as an entree; five mains cover chicken, beef, fresh fish, duck, and vegetarian; fries and salads as side dishes; and sweets include mousse, brulee, dessert doughnuts, and almond cake.

To drink: I drink beer, he drinks wine: Peroni in a tall glass for me, he enjoys a pinot gris or two.

Entrees: Squid with Asian mayo was good but it was the yellowfin tuna with mango salsa that evoked a reaction from him which can be described only as orgasmic.

Mains: The pan-fried market fish, with mash and a turmeric lime and coconut broth, proved the perfect choice for me with a crisp side salad. He enjoyed char-grilled corn-fed chicken breast with ginger rice. Because we knew the diners at the next table, I was able to sneak a sample of the fries with thyme salt and aioli served in brown paper in a wire basket (will have those next time), and hear glowing reports on the duck and beef.

Desserts: By this time a friend had spotted us and plonked herself at our table for a gossip, so she shared our tasting plate of rich morsels _ doughnuts with vanilla bean custard, profiteroles, decadent chocolate. I also had creme brulee and had to fight for my share, my pleas of 'Hey I'm the one doing the review, I should get the most!'' totally ignored.

The buzz: Elizabeth has been humming since it opened, so it is credit to the cafe's staff that it is running smoothly; they never got a 'settling in'' period. It's a relaxed, sociable place to dine; the food and service is faultless.

We also had lots of fun. What more could you ask?