Dining Out
In Arrowtown, Aosta’s charm endures, even on a tough night.
Read moreIs Jesse about to offend a restaurant owner with this review? We’ll find out...
Read moreHave you got the nerve to order the 'Pink Nipple Milk'?
Read moreHave they solved the 'many, many problems' Jesse experienced? Yes and no.
Read more... and they serve the best oysters in Auckland.
Read moreAn expat American couple have created 'the best pasta menu in the city'.
Read moreLuke Dallow did just that for his new Ponsonby Rd bistro, Gigi. But does it work?
Read moreLike, why did an ice cream company even get into hotels?
Read moreChoose your own adventure at this wine bar that completes a hospitality trio.
Read moreI implore you to try this persimmon salad, says Viva's dining out editor.
Read moreIt was high risk, high reward at this unassuming Georgian-Turkish fusion restaurant.
Read moreOur roaming restaurant reviewer finds a Latin American restaurant to write home about.
Read moreAfter a visit to the art gallery, this Lorne St spot provides a vibey dining room.
Read moreJesse Mulligan owes Ōtepoti an apology after prematurely writing off its Sunday offerings.
Read moreTinfeny’s serves unique Cambodian dishes, unlike anywhere else in NZ.
Read more
When not taking bookings is a power move – Lilian is still the hottest dinner date.
Chef Jason Lee's new eatery in City Works Depot dazzles Viva's food reviewer.
Chef Matt Lambert is obsessed with layering flavour over seemingly simple dishes.
Jesse reviews a hyped new modern bistro with a blockbuster team.
Chef Fabio Buonomo crafts Italian dishes with a touch of Roman heritage.
Everyone loves a comeback story and Otto is well worth a visit.
The new opening promises generous servings and an astounding dessert.
When you want wow factor, this sultry subterranean restaurant is the place.
The dining out editor returns to find renewed energy in inner-city restaurant.
Transforming the ex-SPQR site, Jacuzzi is an unadulterated good time.
"Full Time takes its food very seriously," says Jesse.
From natural wine pours to finer fare, Jesse finds a buzzy dining out scene in Ōtautahi.
Chef/owner Lucas Parkinson is committed to fresh, organic and local produce.
The Grey Lynn bistro heralds a bright new chapter with chef Alfie Ingham.
At least the food part, celebrating the best of the Mediterranean, went 'pretty well'.