Coco's Cantina (1)
376 Karangahape Rd, Newton. Ph 300-7582, cocoscantina.co.nz
Dinner Tuesday-Saturday. $$
Joint Runner-up, Best City Bistro / Finalist, Best Service / Finalist, Peugeot People’s choice award for Auckland’s favourite dish: potato & picotta ravioli
In a city whose restaurants are ever more dominated by big investment and entrepreneurs opening multiple outlets, it’s thrilling there are some taking a different tack, focusing their energies on making their one place just as special as it can be. Coco’s Cantina, run by sisters Damaris (below) and Renee Coulter, is a shining example.
Chef Guilherme Correa Bezerra does as good a steak (scotch with salsa verde) as you will find anywhere, and as for the pastas (linguine, ravioli, thunderously good spaghetti and meatballs)… Leave room for chocolate tart.
A favourite dish: Sardinian potato & ricotta ravioli with truffled wild mushrooms & white wine butter sauce.
CITY BISTRO
Fixed-price meals
Free-range chicken and/or pork
Good seating ouside
Takes large groups
Bar
Craft beer selection
Bookings not usually taken
