Best Upmarket Bistro 2012

The Engine Room
115 Queen St, Northcote. Ph 480-9502.
engineroom.net.nz

Open for six years and the winner of its category every single time, The Engine Room doesn’t change its menu much because everything on it is just so popular. Haven’t been yet? Make a booking — you’ll need it — and try the double-baked goats’ cheese, the fish soup, the steak frites, the pears with honey mousse… actually, try anything. Carl Koppenhagen’s food is all terrific, and so is Natalia Schamroth’s service.

Runners-up
Ponsonby Rd Bistro
Pure