Soooo, another foray to The French Cafe, 210 Symonds St, Auckland. By far the pinnacle of dining out in New Zealand. Yes, the options and quality when it comes to eating out in New Zealand, especially Auckland, are a totally different story than even 5 years ago. The French Cafe was way ahead of the pack back then and still is now. Fingers crossed it will still be there for a long time to come.
We decided to cap off a two week adventure to the far north with dinner at this longstanding institution. Expectations were high… But they were totally surpassed. As is always the case at this classy, but oh so comfortable joint. The evening kicked off with a perfectly mixed Aperol spritz and a warm welcome from the pleasantly observant barman who recognised us from previous visits.
When seated, an amuse of golden sweetcorn fritters with mayonnaise and basil salt was served. Crispy and light as air. They were absolutely delicious.
As is our practice when dining out we each order a different meal, eat half the dish each and swap, this way, well it’s obvious… First up, scallops with truffles, cauliflower cheese and parmesan // egg yolk confit, smoked potato, leeks, Iberico ham – both perfect. Lush and decadent flavours, washed down with a glass of champagne. A very fine way to start an early Autumn evening.
Next, pork belly with langoustine, carrots, almond and gingerbread // salmon with wakame, crayfish, buckwheat and brassicas – both were delicious. The pork especially so, with the carrots and ginger it was uncomplicated and really, really good. We had a bottle of Domaine Montvac, from the lower Rhone, it was off the chain! Can’t wait to have it again. It was our French waiters local drop from his home town and his recommendation was very much appreciated – we’ll be sure to hunt down a bottle when we get to France.
Then, lamb with goats cheese, figs, olives, fennel // snapper with lobster, broccoli stems, quinoa. It’s all faultless to be honest, perfectly balanced and executed dishes showcasing the best of the season. The wine is still flowing and we are very happy. Getting full…
But there’s always enough room for dessert. Italian meringue with lemon curd, passionfruit curd, white chocolate, lavender // feijoa, blackberries, elderflower, pavlova, buttermilk – we were speechless! Chase was in heaven with lemon meringue being her favourite sweet and this version being a touch above holy.
It’s hard to get too descriptive here. It’s a very well put together establishment. The food is flawless, the wait staff are all very knowledgeable, unimposing and pleasant, the decor is perfect and doesn’t try too hard and the dining room is uncluttered and easy. The wine is delicious. Simon Wright, his wife and staff have consistently raised the bar….to them!
We’ll be back.