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The epicurean delights of five Matakana dining establishments were celebrated at the recent Cuisine Good Food awards.
The restaurants all won a place in the prestigious Cuisine Good Food Guide, including Rothko at Sculptureum, which was awarded a one hat, believed to be the first in the Rodney region.
Sculptureum owners Anthony and Sandra Grant say the recognition means a lot to the team.
“It is a tribute to the creativity and passion of the kitchen staff, led by head chef Neil Sapitula, and the warmth and care of the front-of-house staff.”
The other Matakana establishments recognised were The Smoko Room at Sawmill Brewery, The Glasshouse at Brick Bay, The Farmers Daughter at Omaha Beach and Plume Restaurant on Sharp Road.
Food judge, author and Mahurangi Matters cuisine columnist, Lauraine Jacobs, says Matakana is a rising star culinary destination.
“The judging and competition in these awards is intense, so even to be named in the online guide to New Zealand’s best places to eat is considered an honour,” Jacobs says.
“Judges are strict about assessment. As Cuisine editor Kelli Brett says, ‘We look for places where not only can you get a glass of good wine and enjoy good service, but the accompanying meal must be delicious and the restaurant must display consistency year round’.”
Jacobs says all the Matakana destinations seek and serve local produce where possible, have a sustainability focus to their menus, and all have excellent promotions from time-to-time to promote the growers and producers in the area.
