12 August 2012

THE PORTLANDER AT RYDGES WELLINGTON

Just when I had bemoaned the lack of steak restaurants, The Portlander threw its doors open to lucky Wellington this week. What we grow best of all in New Zealand is grass, and all those lush pastures provide fodder for terrific cattle and sheep. We're so proud of our amazing lamb and beef. And the Exec chef, Kit Foe, at Rydges Hotel has gone to great lengths to assemble a stunning menu of beefy treats, supplemented by the finest fare for his menu at The Portander.

It doesn't matter how comfortable a hotel is (and the Rydges' rooms are lovely with spacious bathrooms which is something I always seek), it's actually good food that will draw people back. The recent revamp and rebranding of the street level restaurant, and accompanying foyer bar is clever. Every night during the week, there's sizzle and meaty scents in the foyer, as steaks are cooked on a little grill and chunks passed around for guests and people popping in for a drink. Masterful!

The restaurant, although somewhat functional in appearance, is now going to become really popular. There's a great menu that includes grass and grainfed steaks (all with the provenance proudly announced) and a selection of light entrees, fresh fish and seafood treats (loved the meaty paua fritters, tasty pork, and more.) There are are at least seven burgers to try at lunch time and the dessert menu is fantastic - I'm chasing the chef for the apple crumble recipe, as it so original and divinely delicious.

Love the witty marketing like the card above; and the one that says, "You don't have to sleep with us to eat with us."

The Portlander at Rydges Hotel, 75 Featherstone St, Wellington T 04 499 8686