The warmth of the welcome is sadly not echoed by the food presentation — or the dining room.

Carla Botha, co-owner, The Porch at Waihi Beach.

Stephen Coates, owner of Bucklands Espresso Lounge, Bucklands Beach.

European food with Japanese inspiration is a near-perfect match.

Graciously accepting an error indicates a professional attitude.

Latin American colour comes to Takapuna.

A Kingsland restaurant displays a refreshing difference.

We came here because we were meeting up with visitors from Wellington and wanted to try somewhere new.