The Providores

At a time when many restaurants are jumping on the local ingredients bandwagon, the Peter Gordon-owned Providores remains unashamedly global in its outlook. The upstairs restaurant serves genuinely innovative fusion cooking such as Thai-style kangaroo loin salad & New Zealand venison with smoked wheat, cranberry, caraway, edamame & feta risotto from a menu that changes every few weeks depending on what tickles the kitchen’s fancy. While there are no complaints over the quality of food & the vibrant flavours, steep prices raise eyebrows given the small portion sizes. If budget is an issue, stick to the buzzier & more relaxed Tapa Room downstairs, popular for its breakfast menu & lunchtime plates of cheese & charcuterie, as well as international mains including the standout chilli creme fraiche scallops with miso mash. Service is accomplished, while the wine list offers one of the best collections of kiwi Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir & Riesling in the capital.