First there was Nikau Café – a daytime place with significant pedigree in the City Gallery. Then owners Kelda Hains, Paul Schrader and Matt Hawkes decided they still had something in them. So, they added a night-time sibling in a former workers’ cottage in Aro Valley. Named after Kelda’s grandmother, Rita is now a six-year-old, well-established Valley Girl. At this 30-seater they create a new, three-course menu every night – one inspired both by the season and the mood of the staff. An example of a recent dessert: chestnut bavarois, pear, chocolate sauce, buckwheat-chocolate crumble. With plates like that, it’s no wonder there’s often a waiting list for would-be diners. There are two sittings a night and intimacy is guaranteed since their biggest table only seats six. There’s mystery and magic about dining here that elevates it to among the best of its type.