Beau

This listing is from 2022, profiles will be updated after the Restaurant of the Year event in mid-October.

There is real heart to this wine bar on the Three Lamps end of Ponsonby Rd, facilitated warmly by co-owner Diva Giles, who manages the front-of-house with practised ease. It’s a small, compact space, with just a slip of a bar counter and a few tables outside, but it all works because, at Beau, you’re always welcome.

Though you could just come by for drinks, with co-owner and chef Logan Birch in the kitchen the food is fresh, fun and exactly what you want to be eating. There are only about three or so options under each category (small, large, sides, et al.), so each dish has to be a winner. The ceviche is a generous serving of raw fish in leche de tigre and avocado — unfussy, unfancy and a dream to dig right into — and the roast lamb rump is an incredibly tasty number dressed simply. If you’re snacking, the spiced almonds are a must.

Since it’s a wine bar, be assured that the by-the-glass list is more than satisfactory, with revolving pours by interesting producers filling out the menu, including now-standard natural wines and more classic options. During the warmer months, a sunny outdoor area hidden out back becomes popular for sticky summer dinners, so pop your head around or ask after it if you’re unsure.