Editorial: Fare's more than fair in the Bay

As a newcomer to the region I have been impressed by the wide variety of very good cafes, restaurants, pubs and wineries in the region.

Even though the weather hasn't been the greatest (by Hawke's Bay standards) in the two months I have lived here, there have still been some good days to enjoy lunch at a winery or a coffee at a cafe.

I have been to a number of establishments since I arrived and really think the local hospitality industry can be proud of the level of service and variety of food on offer here.

Whether it is going to lunch at a winery like Black Barn or simply popping down to At E's Cafe for a quick coffee on a Saturday (which I do whenever I can), the quality of food and service and the enjoyable surroundings add to the experience.

Having lived in Auckland for 10 years and in Johannesburg, South Africa, for eight years before that, I have had my fair share of bad experiences. This is not a criticism of these two beautiful cities and there are some really great places to dine at in both of them. However, at times you just feel that you are a number or a cover that waiting staff want to get rid of.

So far I have had the opposite experience in Hawke's Bay - wherever I have eaten, had a cup of coffee or beer, I have enjoyed myself immensely. Maybe it is the friendlier, more relaxed nature of people here or maybe it is that local establishments pride themselves on delivering quality service and quality food and drink.

Hawke's Bay Today is once again a partner with Food Hawke's Bay in the annual Hawke's Bay Hospitality Awards and we are currently in the middle of a series profiling all the finalists in the 16 categories. Our team, led by Amy Shanks, has worked tirelessly to compile mini-profiles on each establishment. The awards range from outstanding experience at a winery, restaurant or cafe, best ambience and style, to outstanding chef and outstanding front of house personality.

I am glad I am not one of the judges because it is going to be difficult to choose the winner in almost all of the categories - such are the high standards.

The winners will be announced at a function at Hawke's Bay Opera House on Monday night.

Good luck to all the finalists.