ADDRESS:   2 Dunmore St, Wanaka
CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING HOURS
SHARED PLATES:   $14 – $65
WEBSITE:    kika.nz
CONTACT:   03 443 6536
SCORE:   16.5 / 20

There’s no keeping secrets about Kika. We’ve given it a big tick in the past and its reputation thunders on. Owner/chef James Stapley has waved his wand around the South Island (Bistro Gentil, Whare Kea Lodge, Pegasus Bay, plus more) since arriving from prestigious posts in England two decades ago. Kika exudes warmth and welcome, which is what they’re all about. Stapley regularly changes the menu to marry with the seasons, but these plates are made for sharing. Go on: experiment. The most dedicated carnivore could be persuaded to breach meat protocol and go for Roman gnocchi, truffle mushroom purée and confit garlic purée cream. The ‘Just Feed Me’ option eliminates any dispute. A well-assembled wine list (big ups to the 60ml serving option) also brings a smile to our faces.

IN BRIEF Satisfaction and harmony in shared plates