Mari T.'s
Best BYO
- 18There’s something for everyone at this cosy Cuba restaurant. Roti chicken wraps for those who like to play it safe and massive dosais for the adventurous. They do a delicious mango lassi if the food you’ve ordered is a bit on the spicy side. The friendly service gets everyone coming back for more so best to play it safe and book!
- 222Beach BabylonOriental BayThis is a recent addition to my BYO spots but I’d say it’s here to stay. The staff are great and I’ve seen them cope with large crowds with patience and a sense of humour (key if you’re working at a BYO). The best thing about this retro beachside eatery is their selection of fondues. They’ve got cheese for the purists and butterscotch for those with a sweet tooth. Don’t forget, the first person to drop into the fondue pot shouts the first round of drinks! Situated on Oriental Bay you know you’ll have a satisfying walk to your next destination with the ocean views and a belly full of fondue.
- 35Istana Malaysia LimitedTe AroWe really lucked out when we got a spot for 8 here after we decided at the last minute that it was the sort of night for a cheeky BYO. Conveniently situated close to Chaffer’s NW to stock up on bottles of vino, this place was awesome! They have a huge venue with a huge range, they also do banana rotis for dessert! YUM!
- 45Arashi Kushiyaki BarTe AroThere’s a great range of food here including kushiyaki which is a tasty grilled morsel on a stick. To make things easier, they also do sets which come with rice, miso soup and salad. The portions are well sized and I’d say Arashi is my favourite Japanese BYO!
- 56Satay VillageTe AroThis place is great for a casual BYO and because of Satay Village’s popularity as a take out shop, you mostly get to avoid large, rowdy groups of BYOers. The food is cheap and cheerful, I love their satay sticks and chicken wings!
Mari T.'s
Afternoon Delights
- 14Le Marche FrancaisPipiteaA Thorndon friend had raved about this cafe and as the Mr had a well placed football bye (the cafe isn’t open on Sundays) we decided to stroll down Thorndon Quay to check out Le Marche Francais. I am so happy we did. The lunches were tasty and filling and the chef advised she only cooks the food she loves, the sort of meals eaten at home with family in France. But the highlight was definitely dessert! They had an assortment of delicious cakes, macarons and other delights but I couldn’t go past the chocolate orange tart. Served with an amazing orange marmalade I couldn’t get enough! I can’t wait until the winter sports season is over so I can share my sweet discovery with more friends. They also have a market in the area across from the cafe where they sell an array of cheeses and other French produce. Très bien
- 215Deluxe Espresso BarMount VictoriaCraving something sweet before a movie next door, I went to Deluxe knowing they’d have something to fill the void. I had big piece of gluten free chocolate cake with a huge dollop of yoghurt. I felt complete. They have a heap of gluten/dairy/meat free options to choose from that are delicious even for those who enjoy the odd steak and cheese pie. The cafe has a cool vibe and the staff are friendly and great at what they do. Go there!
- 324Six Barrel Soda FactoryTe AroThere’s always room for a soda and slider from Six Barrel’s. Located upstairs behind Hope Bros, you can sit at the communal counter or around the windows where you can be sure to get in some quality people watching. The syrup flavours are seasonal so you always get to look forward to something new. They have a small selection of baked goods but I always insist on having a soda float and a slider, filled with delicious pulled pork and served with a side of pickles and fries. They also do cocktails, sundaes and bottomless filter coffee! What more could you want for a lovely afternoon tummy filler.
- 47Soho Brown'sWellington CentralSet up like an old school cafeteria. You grab a tray at one end and take your pick from the cabinets filled with an array of sweet and savoury goods. They've got classics like lamingtons and pasties as well as their own take of the Mallowpuff. I had an iced coffee, with a generous scoop of ice cream, it wasn't too sweet and went perfectly with my lemon slice. The Mr was stoked with his sandwich too. This place is great if you've got a hankering for the classics.
- 513Bordeaux BakeryPipiteaYou're spoilt for choice when you go to Bordeaux Bakery but you can't go wrong with their macarons. In an assortment of flavours and sizes it might take a while to choose which to have but rest assured you'll be hard pressed to find a dud. If you're heading to a friend's for dinner, they make perfect little gifts for your host. How could anyone turn down somthing so adorable and delicious?