ADDRESS:   St Patricks Square, Wyndham St, Auckland CBD
CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING HOURS
DEGUSTATION:   $140pp four courses, $195pp seven courses
WEBSITE:    thegroverestaurant.co.nz
CONTACT:   09 368 4129
SCORE:   17 / 20

Many accomplished chefs have cut their culinary teeth here on St Patrick’s Square, and current kitchen magician Ryan Moore is proving his candidacy for the elite Grove Gang. The restaurant has weathered recent storms that would have sunk a less capable helmsman than owner Michael Dearth. To his enduring credit, his “ship” retains its place as one of the city’s most-loved dining rooms. Elegance and charm draws diners in, sparking immediate comfort. Service is attentive, with sommelier Andrea Martinisi always proud to promote the many treasures on the lauded drinks list. Moore’s beautifully rendered Coastal Lamb with red pepper, preserved lemon and anchovy is satisfying to the last morsel. A choice of menus is offered but if you can, opt for the seven- course dégustation.

IN BRIEF: A CBD treasure