JUNGLE FEVER

AMAZONITA
126 Oxford Tce, 03 377 4144
amazonita.co.nz

Desperate to thaw out up after the frigid night air, we gravitate to the gas fire between Amazonita’s bar and restaurant. As we look around and soak up the interior details, it’s clear to see every aspect has been carefully considered and exquisitely executed, from the beautifully designed menus to the lush hanging plants above the plush velvet booths to the open kitchen where all the action is happening. 

Pulling up a swanky designer bar stool in front of the fire, I spy a row of ceramic tiki tumblers lining the top shelf of the bar. Our knowledgeable waiter informs us that tiki cocktails are all the rage in Hawaii, so we order one and a Toco Toucan, made with Pimms, strawberry, lemon, ginger and, best of all, a cucumber and mint popsicle! 

As we sip on our drinks, our palettes are transported to some far, sun-drenched tropical island, and we begin to work through the tantalising food options. We opt for the charcoal-grilled chicken wings and the filo-wrapped goat’s cheese cigars drizzled with thyme-infused honey. Beautifully presented, both ‘small plates’ are generously proportioned; making for excellent value that doesn’t compromise on quality. 

We are escorted to the private dining booth away from the throng of other diners to continue
our intimate dinner for two. The mains arrive and a reverent hush descends over our table as
we take a long moment to savor the impeccable culinary experience. The tender lamb shoulder
is succulent, as is the 21-day aged Canterbury angus hereford ribeye.

Dessert is a no-brainer – the gluten-free chocolate brûlée tart and the spiced pear. The tart is dense, rich and decadent, topped with a single hazelnut and the cutest minute macaron with passionfruit sauce, while the poached pear offers a subtle mix of complementary flavours; pistachio, almonds, and raspberry, with a swoosh of anglaise.

Excellent service, fabulous ambience, faultless cuisine and outstanding cocktails, Amazonita
delivers the ultimate dining experience.