Some highlights in an otherwise disappointing performance gives a flicker of hope for the future.

The menu is a collection of freshly made raw meals, snacks, sweets and smoothies all on show behind a glass cabinet.

The turfed and covered outdoor area with overhanging fairy lights is a cool spot for a couple of afternoon beers out in Ellerslie.

Approaching a decade on the dining scene, Clooney impresses like a debutante.

While the Rendez-Vous has a more takeaway/bakery focus, Le Chef is where you come for a meal.

Like the bar, Mo’s menu is compact but classic.

It was a joy to see that Deco, Titirangi's latest restaurant is as stylish as the rest of the newly restored Lopdell House.

The themes of murders in Paris, religious fundamentalism and a threat to multiculturalism might seem all too topical after recent grim events in the French capital.

Andiamo has Stella on tap, and even if it's not always our first choice from a beer list, they pour it so very well that it easily becomes the drink du jour.

Is it a good book that leaves you wanting to know more?

Eclectic array of flavours and inviting, decor make for an entertaining night out at new 'Asian barbecue' eatery Woodpecker Hill

The menu had us from the word go, when we spotted the instructions, sweetly cheesy, to “brunch and relax” or “best ugly bagel and smile”.

The newest restaurant in Parnell achieved something special before even opening for business. Supplanting a pub charmingly called The Bog, it reduced by one the number of Irish bars in the world.

Ima’s soul food and convivial atmosphere will help transport you to downtown Tel Aviv.

The menu was exciting. Loads of dishes you won’t find elsewhere, as well as some of the standards, but with an interesting twist.

We attempted to order a Bombay gin and tonic, as listed on the stained, dog-eared menu but were informed they didn't have Bombay Sapphire.

East meets east in the kitchen of the latest addition to the small eating-out precinct at the eastern end of Fort St.

Extracting morsels can be troublesome but it’s all part of the fun

The look is definitely set at 33RPM. Kaos is a homage to music and vinyl — there are LP album covers on the walls — and to 70s style, with the decor leaning heavily on retro furniture and fixtures.

We arrived early evening on a Saturday, as the afternoon session crowd tailed off and those up for a night out arrived. Whether you're in jandals or high heels, anything goes.

Matterhorn, which opened down an alleyway off Cuba St in Wellington more than 50 years ago, is such an institution in the capital that Fat Freddys Drop recorded their first album there.

A Wellington restaurant specialises in temptingly priced small plates of authentic Italian fare.

A Welcoming cafe in Mt Wellington offers a menu and coffee worth a trek across Auckland.

For sunset drinks overlooking the harbour. Call ahead to book your spot - this place runs at max capacity when the sun is shining.

i never read the reviews on those dining-out sites. The opinion of a random, usually anonymous, stranger just doesn't cut it for me.

Regatta drops anchor with one of the best views in town complemented by a nautical theme and satisfying seafood.