Her verdict: "The best damn margarita I've ever had, I just want to scull the lot." And the look on her face when the waitress told us it also came in carafes - priceless.
I tried one of their signature mojitos and it was perfect.
They also support local business and stock Croucher Pilsner and Pale Ale, plus some other mainstream beers for the less adventurous. Nice.
The drinks list includes signature wine varietals of Chile and Argentina - Carmenere, Malbec and Torrontes. It is rounded out with their seasonal sangria.
The food:
Sabroso have been serving up a rustic menu of traditional dishes from the Caribbean, Central and South America since they opened in 2007.
I tried the Albondigon de Cordero Romexco - bacon-wrapped lamb loaf with roasted red pepper and almond sauce, black beans and salad.
The sheriff took on the Chimichanga - crispy fried creamy cheese and chicken filled flour tortilla with black beans, salsa, guasacaca and salad.
After a starter of chipotle calamares - tender crisp seasoned calamari with chipotle cream - we both could hardly walk. The portions are quite generous and the flavours very well rounded.
You have to try their homemade sauces but, be warned, the Red Rooster will blow your brains out if you don't do "hot".
The rest of the menu offers grilled chicken dishes, slow roasted pork, spicy prawns, tortillas and a range of tapas.
We did not try a dessert but, from looking over at the next table who were tucking into a mango sorbet with a lime and passionfruit drizzle, it looked as good as it sounds. Most of the menu also has a vegetarian option.
The service:
In a word, brilliant. Attentive, unobtrusive, friendly and helpful. Owner John says he has the best staff in town. I tend to agree.
The prices: Very reasonable. Entries start at $9.50 and you can share a platter for $25.50. The mains range from $17.50 for tostadas to $46 for a 500gm steak with chili garlic prawns. But most of the main menu is around the $25 mark.
Overall:
The whole experience was top notch - from the awesome, friendly and unobtrusive service to the decor, music, drinks and, most importantly, the meal. If you are up for an early dinner you should not miss "hora festiva" (festive hour) between 5-6pm, where you get two courses for $25 and other daily tapas and drink specials. I cannot speak more highly of Sabroso, it has to be one of the best, if not the best, restaurant in Rotorua. So it's not at all surprising they average 4.8/5 on Google reviews and 4.5/5 on Trip Advisor.
This is my "must eat" place if you are heading out for dinner in Rotorua. Just make sure you book during the summer months, because they do get quite busy. Check them out at www.sabroso.co.nz.
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