2 July 2013

HAWKES BAY IN A NUTSHELL

I spent two nights in Napier last week as I hadn’t been in the Bay for almost two years. Not a lot of changes and the same oldies are the same goodies. But here is my Hawke’s Bay experience in a nutshell if you want to enjoy yourself;

• The Crown, Cnr Bridge & Tennyson St, Ahuriri T: +64 6 833 8300

Right smack overlooking the waterfront between Ahuriri and the port, this hotel is comfortable and modern, and a huge notch above the plethora of motels that seem to be everywhere through out the Bay. One of the best room layouts I have seen in a hotel and I loved the sound of waves lapping the shore to lull me asleep.

• F G Smith Eatery, 9A Ossian St, Ahuriri T +64 6 834 0404

Another winner from talented chef Jennifer Le Comte. Similar to her Opera Kitchen in Hastings, this si the place to stop off just near Ahuriri for great coffee, fresh food and of course, those amazing berry and cream cheese brioche buns, warm from the oven that may be the BEST baked goodies in New Zealand. (That’s the FG Smith kitchen garden pictured above.)

• Mister D, 47 Tennyson St, Napier T +64 6 835 5022

As I tweeted immediately I entered this light airy joint surrounded by superb Art Deco buildings a respectable distance from Napier’s ugly mall, “This is the restaurant the Bay has been waiting for – I want it to move to Auckland.” David Griffiths in the kitchen, Pru Barton front of house, fresh Hawkes Bay produce and an all day invitation to eat (dinner Thurs to Sat.) I resisted those now famous donuts with a syringe to inject jelly, custard or chocolate and went straight for the light refreshing snacks (loved the sardines on crispy bruschetta), a sashimi salad, lovely veal and excellent fresh fish. Do not miss this place!

• Pipi, 16 Joll St, Havelock North T +64 6 877 8993

Pipi is one of those places that you have to visit to understand what it is all about. With a brilliant colour scheme that involves plenty of pink and red paint, an artful casualness, and a menu that reeks simplicity and yet is carefully thought through, this is one of my all time favourites for relaxation. The soft pizza bread is to die for, the flounder is compulsory, and all the pizzas are terrific. No bookings but there is a little P{ipi bar across the road and behind a shed!

• Black Barn, Black Barn Rd, off Te Mata Rd, Havelock North T +64 6 877 7985

If you only lunch at one Hawkes Bay winery, this should be it. Terry Lowe’s food is great, but what’s really special is the amazing view of the Bay, the outdoor courtyard under the vines for summer lunches and the constant attention to detail that keeps this place out in front. Love the new floral perspex panels that hang in the dining room, love the Hawkes Bay lamb dishes and love the wine there.