In London last Tuesday a Latvian, Janis Nords, was caught trying to skip out on a £1000 ($2050) bill at the St James's St restaurant L'Oranger.

The oddly named eatery derives from the transplantation of Cafe Rikka which had to shut up shop at Victoria Park when redevelopment started there.

A Japanese restaurant goes a long way to debunking stereotypes about seaweed and tofu.

We came here because we'd heard it was family-friendly.

There's something warm and comforting about having a local eatery.

The food and service at a Spanish eatery make up for other distractions.

The recession has not stopped Kiwis from regularly dining out at cafes and restaurants but many have changed their habits, a survey has found.

Three of the world's best-known chefs will combine to prepare a "once in a lifetime" meal at the exclusive Cape Kidnappers resort in Hawkes Bay.

The line of Edwardian terrace shops near the top of Queen St is an unlikely place for a French restaurant.

Viva celebrates the best of Taste of Auckland - the festival dedicated to good food, wine, and company - yours!

Britain's maestro of molecular gastronomy is just as good at pub grub, finds Rob McFarland.

The owner of my favourite espresso bar, Ben Boyle, has a background in metaphysics - I'm not sure if this has any bearing on his coffee-making ability, but it makes for interesting conversation while you enjoy his product.

Intimate bistro dining is propelled to new levels by wonderfully flavourful fare.

The hospitality business is about to get a shake up by way of a long-awaited Food Bill that will focus on food safety, writes Steve Mackenzie.

The lucky folks at Herne Bay know when they are on to a good thing.

We came here because my friend - a new mum - had the place recommended to her by members of her coffee group as a child-friendly cafe.

The new lair of a group of foodie artists proves deserving of its popularity.

More cafes, bars and restaurants are forgoing surcharges on public holidays.

Of course the Commonwealth Games went off without a hitch. What's that? You call those hitches? Obviously you have never been to India.

Wedding couples have been left scrambling for venues by the failure of a string of Auckland restaurant businesses.

A beacon of Spanish cuisine is a welcome addition to Auckland city's dining choices.

Sharing platters in gorgeous surrounds on a relaxed island is the perfect way to get into the summer spirit.