Latest fromViva

Cooking up a storm
If the young talent rising in the food ranks is anything to go by, our restaurant scene is about to get a whole lot more exciting. Viva's restaurant reviewer talks to three chefs ready to shake things up.

<i>Turo-Turo Philippine Cafe</i>, Glen Innes
An authentic eatery in Glen Innes encourages adventurous dining.

John Verryt's favourite things
Set designer John Verryt shows Viva a few of his favourite treasures.

Hot potatoes (+recipes)
Maori potatoes, now in season, are great to experiment with in the kitchen.

Wine: Stepping out for a drop
It's an exciting thing to discover a bar that has the right mix of interesting wines and good music.

Beauty: Tea time
Take a break for some well-recognised botanical benefits, writes Janetta Mackay.

Retail therapy: Quake aid
As well as the earthquake's human toll, Christchurch's retail heart has been particularly hard hit by the earthquake.

<i>Jambalaya Southern Kitchen</i>, Whangaparaoa
A US-style eatery in Manly delivers the flavours of the southern states, but needs work in other areas of the dining experience.

At home: Steel in the spotlight
Viva steps inside two stylish homes in one of Auckland's coolest new loft apartment complexes.

Tiffany Singh's favourite things
Art with a conscience is Tiffany Singh's passion. We find out what else the artist is into.

Wine: Ready for riesling
When this variety is doing its job well it can transport you to a different place.

At home: Lust for life
Amanda Taylor-Ace had a dream and, through the sheer force of her personality, made it her reality, upping sticks and creating a most enviable life in France.

<i>The Refreshment Room</i>, Titirangi
Gorgeous views and simply delicious Italian fare are getting tongues wagging in the Waitakeres.

A Kitchen in Turkey
Food writer Leanne Kitchen has had an enviable career, including writing a new cookbook, which took her to delicious Turkish nooks and crannies.

One tasty trio
Auckland's dining scene is about to become a whole lot more exciting with the addition of three new eateries, created and led by hospitality expert Brendan Turner.

Fashion Plate: Josephine Stewart-Tewhiu
Actress Josephine Stewart-Tewhiu draws wardrobe inspiration from the past.

What you see is not what you get
Supermodel Erin O'Connor slams designers for trying to brainwash women with a fantasy image not attainable without digital trickery.

A coming of age
On the eve of opening her own store, Viva spends the morning with designer Cybele Wiren.

Don't miss: Melbourne Food & Wine Festival
If you're heading to Melbourne in early March, have your tastebuds primed.