Grand old Whanganui building has new life and fine dining

Diners can enjoy river views and a unique dining experience at 25 Somme Parade.

"Walking my dog in the morning we passed this place and came back with my partner - so happy we did."

That is how one diner described riverside restaurant 25 Somme Pde.

"Dog friendly, uber friendly staff, fantastic local coffee and the breakfast with a reduced balsamic was brilliant," says the review on TripAdvisor.

The reviewer also said the restaurant is housed in a great old building put to good use which is now known as 25 Somme Pde, something of a Whanganui landmark.

The business is owned by River City Hospitality Limited.

Owner Mark Austen says the location and the building's history as a restaurant needed to be brought back to life.

He says the work involved has been minimal and earthy tones have been used to enhance rather than redecorate the interior.

Since opening in February, 25 Somme Pde has built up a steady regular clientele of neighbours, riverside walkers and businesses with the cafe by day and more recently with evening degustation dining.

Mr Austen says the dining can be an intimate experience for couples, celebrations with family and friends or business groups with tailored menus, drinks and themed rooms to ensure that individual needs are met.

The restaurant has two downstairs dining rooms as well as the "cigar room" furnished with tables and chairs and there are now two upstairs rooms with river views ready to welcome diners.

Now that resource consent has been granted, the upstairs dining rooms are available for private dining.

Sample degustation menus in three price ranges with some mouth-watering options are available.

For the uninitiated, degustation dining involves the sampling of a range of the chef's signature dishes with companion wines.

How does Sticky Feijoa Pork Belly, Volcanic Carrot and Parsnip Puree, Straw Potato and Jus with Crackle Kibble sound?

There are usually six or more courses and the dining style is intended to encourage the careful, appreciative tasting of each dish.

Mr Austen says 25 Somme Pde staff are looking forward to a busy spring and summer season.