These are our picks to make mum's day this Sunday. Photos / Supplied, NZME
It's time to celebrate the mothers, grandmothers and other fabulous women in our lives this weekend by spoiling them with foodie treats. From decadent homemade cakes to elegant high teas or something a little different such as an oyster masterclass.
Here we've listed our picks for mum-worthy meals to make at home or some special spots to take her on Sunday.
Swap cucumber sammies for king crab and caviar when you treat your mum to an opulent Russian-themed high tea at Ponsonby's The Vodka Room. Pick up a ticket and indulge in 10 savoury and sweet treats plus a drink that you and Mum can enjoy under glittering chandeliers. Na zdorovie!
Where: The Vodka Room, Ponsonby
When: All day until 5pm, book online
Cost: $50-$65pp, depending on your choice of drink.
For the seafood-loving mums, look no further than FISH's Mother's Day menu. At Auckland's Princes Wharf, dine on an indulgent three-course menu (with a complimentary glass of Peter Yealands Pinot Gris Blush on arrival) that features caviar, tiger shrimp, oysters and crayfish.
Where: FISH at The Hilton, Princes Wharf
When: Available for lunch or dinner, book here
Cost: $115pp
• Celebrate mum with Mumm, dinner and dancing
Dine out at The Lula Inn and make the most of the glistening waterfront views and a special NZ Music Month act playing into the early evening - and take mum for a spin on the dance floor. As an extra Mother's Day treat, Lula is offering a bottle of G.H.Mumm for only $55 or a Sunday roast and wine special for an affordable $25.
Where: The Lula Inn, Quay Street
When: Nathan King of Zed gig: 4pm - 7pm. Dinner: 5pm til late
Take a step back in time and dine like they did in the roaring 20s. Take Mum to Hotel DeBrett for an afternoon of glitz and glamour with a 1920s-inspired high tea. Enjoy a cocktail on arrival and even a complimentary gift bag featuring faux pearls, a feather boa, gloves and headbands, to really get in to the spirit of the 20s.
Where: Hotel DeBrett, High Street
When: Sessions at 12.30pm or 3pm, see here
Cost: $70pp
Is Mum an oyster fan? Take her back to school to learn the art of shucking, make a vinaigrette and get the techniques for the perfect tempura batter while enjoying plenty of taste tests alongside a couple of glasses of bubbles and organic wines from Kumeu wine company Babich.
Where: Auckland Seafood School, Jellicoe Street
When: Saturday, 2pm-5pm. Book here.
Cost: $100pp
• Carrot, orange and pistachio nut layer cake
This nutty, creamy layer cake could be the perfect treat to bake for your mum this weekend. You can easily switch up the flavours for the ones your mum loves most.
See the recipe over on bite.co.nz.
Take your nibbles to the next level by creating your own homemade aioli. It is a lot easier than you think, even when it's spiked with tangy lemon. Pop it on top of salmon crostini or spread in a fresh sammie.
See the recipe over at viva.co.nz.
Just in time for Mother's Day, Bluebells Cakery have created a gorgeous takeaway high tea package. Skip the always booked out high tea events across the city by picking up - or getting delivered right to your door! - a bundle of finger food goodies, including some of Bluebells' signature sweet treats. There are gluten-free, vegetarian and pregnancy-friendly options too.
• Citrus quinoa salad with lemon dressing
This quinoa salad is perfect as a base to top with grilled fish or chicken. A light, but lively salad that boasts an array of sweet, sour and tangy flavours.
See viva.co.nz for the full recipe.
• Brunch at Richmond and Domain Kitchen
Richmond and Domain Kitchen has taken over the spot near the corner of Richmond Rd where cafe, Jafa, used to be. In a review for Canvas Magazine, Tess Nichol stopped in to check out the brunch menu.
She noted a few teething issues and that the staff seemed to still be "finding their groove" but was pleased with the filling meals that somewhat cured a hungover head.
Read her full review online, here.
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Find out in the full article here.
• How your appetite changes as you age
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Going up the slide is okay, actually. (Sometimes.)