ADDRESS:   283 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby
CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING HOURS
MAINS:   $145pp – $180pp
WEBSITE:    sidart.co.nz
CONTACT:   09 360 2122
SCORE:   18.5 / 20

Chef Leslie Chandra is very familiar with the Sidart kitchen, but since taking ownership of Sid Sahrawat’s former flagship, Chandra has had to develop a unique signature that claims this once-eponymous space as his own. And it’s working. We are delighted Chandra has retained Sidart’s pared- back formality, as it suits his strong technical and artful presentation skills. And we are super-happy to see a continued focus on seasonal, locally sourced fresh produce. The wagyu with white asparagus, egg yolk and kasundi is impressive and signals Chandra’s comfort with applying his Indian food heritage to his menus. More evidence comes via the vindaloo treatment given to Easterbrook quail with foie gras, which is a triumph. A “discovery menu” showcases Chandra’s desire to “push the boundaries of current perceptions of food.”

IN BRIEF: An exciting new direction for an old favourite