New Zealand
Inspire - located in The Spire Hotel in Queenstown, NZ. On our first night in NZ we enjoyed a 6 course meal at Inspire. The Chef had spent time in Vancouver cooking in many well known restaurants. My favourite dish was the Orange Pepper Soup with Basil foam. It also inspired me to make Chocolate Pannacotta, which we had for dessert, when I returned home.
Wai - also located in Queenstown, NZ. Wai offered many local dishes. I sampled Whitebait fish (tiny white fish, lightly pan-fried), local oysters and of course, famous NZ lamb. Overlooking the lake on a fresh summer evening I will never forget my meal at Wai.
Mollies - the tasting menu, although good, is not what was remarkable about Mollies. As we entered the renovated 18th Century mansion we were invited to cocktails in the 'Opera Room'. As you sip your drinks before dinner you are treated to a few Arias however, we were treated to the string section of the South Africian Orchestra that night. What a lovely treat to be one of ony 20 t a private performance. It is hard to describe the atmosphere of Mollies so I have included a photo. Next time we will not only stay for dinner but also in one of the 14 unique suites.
Te Whau Winery - after our experience at Mollies we wondered how it could ever be topped. Although we knew dinner at the winery would not be as outragous we didn't expect the stunning scenery. The meal was superb (more lamb!) and my seared tuna starter was devine. I have also included a photo or two as words can not begin to describe it.
Australia
Pearl - located in Melbourne, we dined at Pearl for New Year's Eve. It was the best meal I had on our whole trip. We started with Beef Tartare and Beet Root Shoots, Seared Tuna (as good as Te Whau if not better), roasted duck in a red curry (amazing!) and passionfruit pannacotta with Angel Fairy Floss. It was devine, all of it!
