It’s not a bad place to live, eh?
As much as I appreciate the hard work that goes into running your own business – and I respect the Kiwi for being fully committed to ensuring its success – it’s also really nice when he gets a day off. We get to spend time together!
Today was one of those days.
After picking up someone’s new golf clubs (birthday present) and related accessories, we headed off to Mt Difficulty for lunch. I had been there just once before, when I went on tour with the Kiwi (although I had to pretend I didn’t him know him), so it was nice to go back when (1) it was less crowded, and (2) we didn’t have to act like we were strangers. Plus, since he knows everyone there, it was great to be treated like a friend of the family. My lunch the first time around was pretty good, but I knew I was in for something truly special when the chef waved at us from across the room.
And, man – he did not disappoint.
[And yes, there was wine. That’s a Pinot Gris on the left and a Chardonnay on the right.]
We started with some toasted gluten-free breads, served with hazelnut dukkah, a mint-and-lemon yogurt dip, and cumin-and-smoked-paprika oil. HOLY SMOKES, ya’ll – that combination is phenomenal! (No, I didn’t eat the yogurt dip, but the rest was unbelievable.) The Kiwi and I are now talking about how we’re going to infuse our own oils at home – I mean, we like cumin and paprika. I’m sure we can figure it out. And what a treat to get freshly toasted, soft gluten-free bread! It was probably pretty decadent for lunch, but it was worth it.
We both ordered the fish special, which was a gorgeous bisque-like broth filled with langoustine, blue cod, clams, and shrimp. There may have also been some broccolini, bok choy, and crispy shallots, but we were too distracted by the spectacular seafood. I don’t think I’ve ever seen clams quite that big either – apparently they grow to enormous sizes here on the south island. There was so much food that neither of us could finish the bowl, but it was not a comment on the quality of the food! It was superb.
We eventually left the premises, but it was such a fun afternoon. The staff was awesome – they’re super friendly and hilarious, and we promised to come back again during this quiet(er) time for them. With food like that, why not?
“And yes, there was wine…”
There was no doubt in my mind that there would be. 🙂