The dish: Venue with a difference

Cable Bay on Waiheke Island. Photo / Supplied

There's something wonderfully decadent about dining out yet being in your own private room. One of the most fabulous eateries to cross the Viva radar recently is the underground cellar at Cable Bay vineyard on Waiheke Island. This small but perfectly formed room seats up to 14 people and the walls are lined with bottles from various vintages and a series of specially imported fine wines. Situated in a corner of Cable Bay's barrel halls you look out on the French oak barriques where the current wine is maturing. Cocooned from the outside world, we recommend you indulge in a specially prepared degustation dinner created by award-winning executive chef Will Thorpe. It truly is a unique location and the perfect way to create a memorable night shared with friends. To find out more, ph (09) 372 5889.

Put it on the list

Alexandra's Bazaar spice blends are a natural, gluten-free way to add a truly exotic edge to your next meal. Mix Ethiopian Berbere into a meat marinade, infuse couscous with Moroccan Ras El Hanout, stir in Middle Eastern Zahtar or make a Chermoula dressing to serve with fish. There are seven fabulous flavours, plus the turquoise packaging will look gorgeous on your shelves. Available from specialty food stores, New World and through the online site.

Light, crisp and wonderfully flavoursome, the La Panzanella range of Italian crackers will make an impressive addition to your next cheeseboard. We loved the mini rosemary croccantini, $5.99, while the cinnamon crisp biscuits, $5.99, are a light, sweet treat with your coffee. Available from Nosh food markets.

Japanese cooking requires a light touch to ensure maximum flavour. That's why Ninja Japanese Salad Dressing, made in Parnell, is on the money. It brings together wonderfully the nutty flavours of soy, mirin sake and grapeseed oil to give your salads and noodles a truly authentic flavour. $10.99 from Farro Fresh.