A Brief Summary of the Eateries in Hamilton.

Canvas

Gothenburg

Where Shebeen was. With a name halfway between Batman's city and the bloke that made the press. Apparently a place in Sweden. This is fast becoming my favourite place. Had a great Swedish Christmas buffet there recently, and went once before and had the desserts which were awesome. Had food also, which was nice, but not as memorable as the desserts. Murray reports "I do think that you should try Gothenburg. Great tapas. Mains look good too, but not tried." [kinda reviewed June 2010]

Chim Choo Ree

Replaced the short lived Vibes (not to be conhused with Vibe) - a cafe where La Commune/Jaycees used to be. Menu has meat in it, so maybe it will last longer than La Commune. Lianne says "YUM!! Deep fried rice balls with mozarella in the middle, divine pork belly, tuna tartare, manuka smoked eel with scallops and licorice powder and flourless whisky and chocolate cake with earl grey ice cream are just some of the delights on offer." Actually Viv and Mike came back from a meal there and raved about the place. Very interesting combinations but fabulous flavours. [not reviewed yet]

Master House Chinese Restaurant

New chinese place in Vic street. Went to Yum Cha here last sunday, and it was great! The food was very nice and the people were very friendly. And at the end of the meal, we found it was half the price we expected. The little dishes are only $3.00 each! So I would definitely recommend you try it out one day. The mains are good and generous, but you want to share them in the middle of the table - especially on the lazy susan. Got a nice email that said "its chinese name is 'Mei wei Ju', where 'Mei wei' means 'delicious' [and] 'Ju' means 'house'. if we translate it directly, it will be something like 'a house with delicious food'. its owner used to run a takeway shop in central place." [last reviewed Jan 2007]

Indian Aroma

Sahara's Tent

Little India

Adriana's

Thai Orchid

In Ham East. Nice Thai food. Went there last weekend after a long gap. The soups were not as large as I remember, but still nice. In fact I felt the food overall had improved from my last visit - the Fish in Lime Sauce was much better than I remembered. I did feel the size of the meals was a bit small - for the four of us I really should have ordered a fifth main (which isn't such a hardship at $15 a main). And for rice that you have to order separately, I think they could have been a bit more generous. But lovely food. [last reviewed Feb 2003]

Nami

Japanese food on Hood Street. Rumoured to not actually be run by Japanese, per se (they are Korean, I have this from Jo, who used to live in Japan). The plastic food in the window was enough to turn me away, but it is nicer when it is real. The Shabu-Shabu is the best deal - you get a big bowl of water and get to cook all of the food on your table and then eat it. The $10-$12 "meals" are lunch sized - order two if you are a growing lad. The lunch deal is good. Has a teppenyaki set-up, but I have never seen anyone use it.

Em>Bar>Go

Palate

Used to be Curry Pavilion. Very posh looking, all in beige and cream. Menu looks very nice, but pricey - mains are all twenty-something to $30. It was pointed out to me that so are a couple of other places in town, but I don't complain about their prices, so maybe I just have to redefine what pricey is. Or start to complain that they are pricey too :-) We finally got dressed up and went, the food was lovely - my duck was georgeous. As was the calamari. We got given a sample of soup that was nice too. We decided the baked alaska was the best dessert, followed by the creme brulee. [reviewed Nov 2006]

Domaine

Gengy's

Gengy's is a Mongolian hotplate restaurant. They have put their prices up, but now offer you 'free' things to tempt you in. This style of food is great, as you get to try a whole range of tastes. I find anything that starts with Teryaki Sauce and Sesame Oil is normally great. The salads were worth missing, but the soups were okay. They have some pre-marinated meats, which was a great idea. The pancakes were nice, but with only 2 flavours of Ice-Cream, one of which is vanilla, you have to hope that the second one is nice. Warning, on a busy night, it can get real crowded, but normally quietens down by 8:30pm. Definitely worth a go. [last reviewed Dec 2004]

Lone Star

Furnace

Pumice

Alehouse

One of the Speight's Alehouses. Between Countdown and Pack'n'Save. Our food was pretty good, and the ribs is a great feed. Not especially fancy but generous and tasty. And they have Macs as well as Speights, so not altogether a loss. Parking is horrible unless you brave the supermarket carparks. Recent visits have been good food, although service isn't always great. [reviewed May 2010]

Fuego

In the wilds of Rototuna. I think this was the Grill and Chill place, whatever it was called. A nice bar and cafe. Played Groove Armada, so that was nice. The Pork Belly was amazing, and lots of it. The Spare Ribs were beef, but melt in your mouth, so that made up for it. and the sauce was not too bad. We skipped desserts, but the mint chocolate one sounded alright. [reviewed Jan 2010]

Shinjuku

Japanese place on Alexander St opposite Little India. Menu is extensive and covers all the bases from Sushi & Sashimi, to noodles, bento boxes and set's. I think the bento box "meals" are better than the "sets". We had a lovely meal there - the tempura was gorgeous, especially the prawn - I even ate the tail shell, but not the head and feelers. They now have a liquor license. The plum wine was interesting, but tasted too much of almonds for my liking. [last reviewed Aug 23 2005 - Happy Birthday John :-) ]

Canton Hong Kong Restaurant

Thai Village

Original Thai

En Q Bar / Cafe en Q

Jaipur

Another Indian restaurant in North end of Vic St (next to Thai Classic & Burgerholics.) Food was good, service was a bit slow - lots of people using the takeaway service. My Rogan Josh was hot but not full flavoured, even tho I only asked for a medium. The naan, however, was excellent, very light and fluffy and the best naan in town. We went back recently, and the food was generally good. The naan was nearly as nice as I remembered. The mango lassi was much better. [reviewed Mar 2007]

Smith & McKenzie

Master Kong Restaurant

Used to be Victoria Chinese or New City Chinese Restaurant. Next door to Riff-Raff and the superloos on Vic street. Have ditched all the yellow chair covers. not sure what else has changed. Heresay from someone who works next door is that the food hygene out the back is not so great. [not reviewed]

Scotties

New place where Breakers was. Still has all of the incongruous surfboard decor in wet Hamilton where there is *no* surf. That's all I could tell from walking past. sorry. [not reviewed]

Cafe Alma (Novatel Tainui)

New Delhi Indian Restaurant

Now only available in Dinsdale or Beerscourt, since the Hood street shop closed. Went there (Dinsdale) last Saturday and the food was good. They do the best Onion Bhuji in town. The Korma and Sagwaala were really great. The Roganjosh was a bit watery, and the Butter Chicken was kinda tomato-ey - there is better elsewhere. The Mango Lassi is nice with cardamom, but I could live without the whipped cream on top. When we got takeaways a while ago, some bits were cold (and I was waiting in the restaurant for them to finish, so it is not like it was sitting there waiting for me. [reviewed June 2010]

Pattaya Satay Noodle House

Where Goanna and Montana was. Went there soon after it opened, and it was nice. The owner came out and was real friendly, and the food was good. Sorry this is so vague - I thought I wrote the review at the time, and now can't find it. Went for lunch recently, good food for $10. The chicken & sweetcorn soup was the nicest, although my won ton soup was nice and peppery. Mark says this is a great place, but then he doesn't order off the menu, just tells them the malaysian dishes he wants made. [last reviewed Dec 2004]

Vue bar

Used to be The Post. Pub food in the casino. More like the American casino food that is cheep and cheerful. Can get two meals for $10 if you cut the voucher out of the paper. Meat was a bit tough, but veges were nice. Very little atmosphere, but you can sit on the balcony and overlook the carpark/Waikato river. The view is better from the Deck on the floor above tho (and one feels the food probably comes out of the same kitchen). The food is cheaper with an action-card, which is free to join up to, so maybe worth doing just for that. [reviewed Feb 2009]

The Deck

New bar above the casino. Has a snack menu that has the usual bar snacks (about $6) up to steak & chicken mains at $18. The balcony is great, so I think this place will be worth trying out one early evening, just to sit and eat overlooking the Mighty Waikato river. [not reviewed]

Pancho's

Mexican food, appears to be run by Indians with an Egyptian chef. For $40 will do you a marguarita if you supply the Tequila - so what does the $40 get you? This is Mexican in name only, so don't go expecting anything better than old el paso. [last reviewed Mar 2003]

Memory Lane

Valentines

Galaxy

In Southern Cross Hotel. Used to be Wilson's Carvery? Another motel restaurant on Ulster st. [not reviewed]

Lady Chatterley's

Gerards

I am always dubious about restaurants that are in hotels/motels. This one is on Ulster st. In the Barclay Hotel, I think. [not reviewed]

Palermos

Shakespeares Restaurant

Ru We Ru

Golden Dragon

A Chinese place in 5 Cross Roads. It is a sit down smorgasbord, and does takeaways as well. It is nice and clean and bright, and reasonably priced. The diners were an odd mix, but then this is 5 Cross Roads. The food was nice, okay, not stunning, but a good meal, and a good range available. [reviewed March 2007]

Little Korea

Korean restaurant (presumably) in Vic Street down by Les Mills. Where VaniSra/Twin Thai used to be - not sure if it is the same people or not. Decor looks cheaper than VaniSra, or maybe it is all the same but just several years older. Haven't been close enough to check the new place out. [not reviewed]

Thai Classic

Peng's Place

Shan Yuan Chinese

Chinese place on Vic St. Was Hasan Baba. Lots of pictures in the window of chinese looking food. Reports from Emma and Pauline were very unfavourable. Now looks fairly dead - they have taken the sign down (so it says Hasan Baba instead). Although last night it appeared open for business, but was completely empty. [not reviewed]

Minsokchon

Where Maru/Gino Portafino was in Bryce St. Has asian writing in the window and looks like a sake & karioki bar. Very much like Maru but with a new name. Reasonable food for about $10 a pop. Rebekah wrote me: "Minsokchon has the quickest service I have experienced at any restaurant - we were brought our food within minutes of ordering. You can barbeque at your table (built in cookers), which is fun, and I would especially recommend the kalbi for this - it is delicious marniated pork. I would also recommend the dolsot bibimbap (hotpot mixed rice). This comes in a superheated stone bowl, and the food cooks together as you eat it ~ wonderful. Of course, every main course comes with copious side dishes in true Korean fashion. And the prices are very competitive, with huge meals for around $10 each." [reviewed Aug 2005, 2008 by rebekah]

Hindustan

An Indian place in Garden Place. Used to be Glamz, then 4 Muskateers. The indoors looks magnificent, full of red drapes and gold cutlery. The food was good, as was the service, but then the place was empty. We kept banging our glasses etc on the glass topped table, since it was deceptive where the table top was. [reviewed 2011]

Mekkhala

Baan Thai

Rebo

Sands

Used to be Sirocco then the short lived Vibe and even shorter lived Finn (apparently Hamilton's only Seafood restaurant). But the whole Le Grande is up for sale/lease, so this will probably all change again soon. New signage up as Sands, so will see what developes out of that... [not reviewed]

Victoria St Bistro

Was Zeytin, then Vespa. After complete refit (again) it is now some sort of bar/cafe/bistro. Chair alcoves out front look nice but feel a bit exposed to the public. [not reviewed]

BBQ Master

Ibistro

Restaurant in the Hotel Ibis - keeping very quiet. Nice enough food, but you are eating in a hotel lobby. and for all you are right on the river, you don't see much, and there is a lot of road noise from the bridge. [reviewed May 2010]

Salt and Pepper

'Restaurant' in the middle of the cafes out at The Base. Doesn't look that inspiring or popular. I see half of it is now another Indian (Aroma?). [not reviewed]

Yako's

Mediterranian place where Masala Club/Kazana was. Got an amazingly long review from Pilar from "the Spain that is by the Mediterranean in Europe... Just wanted to leave a comment saying that the food we had was excellent. The food they have at Yako's is completely mediterranean. It is spiced but not spicy, it is tasteful, fresh and hearty.  The food we had yesterday was excellent, well cooked, well presented and not expensive. People there were very nice and polite, food came at the right pace. I really think it is a taste of the Med in the heart of Hamilton. Worth the try, worth the adventure of going were nobody else goes." Thanks for the great review. I tried it, and it was alright, but not really worth the price. [reviewed May 2010]

Silk

Singapore/White House

For a short while the Singapore restaurant seemed to be calling itself the White House VIP Restaurant, which sounds like a euphemism for strippers given what the White House is in Auckland. Upstairs over Garden Place. Singapore used to be nice Chinese, so maybe it is just what it was before, but with a facelift/re-invention. Look out of the windows when you are there - the glass is so old that it has warped and distorts everything!

Punjabi Dhaba

Michael informs me that this has already closed, so yet another restaurant has bitten the dust before I graced it's door. Oh well, it's not like we don't have enough Indian to choose from already. [not reviewed]

Amigos

Three Leg Frog

Where Sohl/Olivetto/some wierd 'art' gallery was. Sounds and looks Chinese. menu seems reasonable. [not reviewed]

Zyka

Vivo Kitchen & Bar

Daikoku

Hogs Breath Cafe

Homestead

Restaurant & Bar over what used to be the Video Easy in Hillcrest - used to be Settlers/Boston. Looks and feels much like Boston, but did not look at the menu to see what had changed. [not reviewed]

Flying Burrito Brothers

Scotts Epicurian

Had the Shri Lankan Duo and it was fabulous (sadly dropped from the menu now). Also the Tiramisu was better than their usual Tiramisu, although the chocolate moose beats it hands down. Very good food, nice coffee and the best hot chocolates in town! The black seats are the comfiest, and I personally like the table at the back by the window, so you may see me there. [last reviewed Jan 2010]

Metropolis

Grey Street Kitchen

Not to be confused with the River Kitchen. New cafe in Grey Street, where Saglik Cafe used to be many, many years ago, opposite the Eastside tavern. Yes, I have been here that long, cause you are all saying, "but it has always been a lawnmower shop". The desserts were stunning, and the hot chocolate was nice. It was nicer outdoors than in, but that could be summer for you. I was not so impressed with the meals - they were good, but not stunning. The menu has lots of Brekkie things, but not so much other. Although I am tempted by the mixed grill - yay meat! [reviewed Feb 2008]

Espresso Garden

In the Mitre 10 Mega at the Base. I do like this place. Good food, nice hot chocolates. lots of seating, and close parking. La tutti tutti and the stans pan are the best dishes. Although I wish that la tutti tutti was more generous - it's only spuds guys. New menu, but not much different from the old. It is a real shame that the plants are further away from the cafe, so all you actually look at are pots. [reviewed Jan 2009]

Sugar Bowl

In the wilds behind the football stadium. Found this place after it was highly recommended to us. Not a lot of seating, but they were friendly, and it was packed with happy looking customers. Next to a place that makes baskets of interesting goodies, so check out what interesting foodstuffs they have while you are there. We had breakfast there - nice meals, generous servings. Not too flash, but good food. This has become our favourite place for brunch. Try the creamy mushies with a side order of bacon. [reviewed May 2008]

Hazel Hayes

The Abbey

Cullens

Modern cuisine. The food is good and not too pricey. The nz/asian mix works in many of the dishes, and their chocolate brownie is excellent. Had a bad experience one sunday avro, but I was tired and they did take some money off our bill. They will let you have coffee & dessert on the sofas, which is good. Went there on my birthday, and it was still good. The eye fillet stack entree makes a good light main if you are only peckish (or want 2 entrees and no main). [last reviewed Jan 2004]

Jam

Museum Cafe

BurgerFuel

Barzurk

Gourmet pizza. Actually the best dish is the salads. The cranberry pizza is nice, the salmon isn't and the fetta is just plain salty. Watch out for pizzas with lettuce on them. Still a good place, but too hot in summer. Thankfully they have stopped sprinkling lots of parsley over *everything*. Yay! [reviewed Nov 2004]

Nitro

Was Go Vino, where Milan/Saffron was. Still sells tappas food so not sure what has changed. Go Vino had nice mushrooms and bruschetta. The trick with tappas is to go with a few people so you can try lots of different things. Apparently Nitro does/did frozen cocktails in liquid nitrogen, hence the name. They were out of Nitro the one time we went to try it out. [not reviewed]

The Bank

Iguana

The Cyprus Tree

Machina Espresso + Deli

New Cafe in London Street (about where Happy Harries Suparoo was - new readers look confused now). Looks industrial trendy. Mostly do cooked breakfast and panini for lunch. Best deal is the mini-platter for lunch, an excellent pile of interesting bits, pickles, sauces & bread, for only $8! My coffee was one of the nicest in town. [reviewed Nov 2002]

Jack's Coffee House

Grace's Coffee House

Got a nice email from the owners Stu and Leah Gillanders: "The new cafe is called Grace on Braid rd, and its at 29 Braid rd, St Andrews. Grace keeps the same hours as Jacks, ie closed on monday and tuesday, and starting this week we are doing nights on fridays and saturdays at Grace." Went there and it is pretty nice. little bit cramped, and the glasses for water are tiny. but the food was nice, and I could be tempted to go back for dinner. [reviewed March 2010]

Cafe Suburbia

Hydro Majestic

Grillers

Savage Rock

On Dinsdale roundabout. Used to be Cafe Vetto. No idea what it is like inside. It was wierd, no sooner had Cafe Vitto repainted all of it's signs, than they took them down and replaced them. Mostly this was really good. They made a lot of effort for my big brekkie, but were let down by tasteless bacon. The food was good. The hot chocolate was a bit weak, but the coffee was good. [reviewed Oct 2007]

Momento (ex Rocket)

i Japanese Cafe

A Japanese cafe where the Boulevard Cafe was in Collingwood Street. This place is quite nice - nicer than the menu makes it sound. I had the lunchbox, which was nice but overpriced. The chicken dish written in hard to read grey at the bottom of the menu is the best (and good value too), or the udon noodle soup.

Burgerholics

Espresso Workshop

A Trendy cafe in Te Rapa strait, open for lunches & sells Coffee machines. Started by the folks that bought you Diggers. This was really quite nice. The food was good - the stuff in the cabinets looked great. The menu is very limited. Coffee was as good as in town. But don't look at the prices of the cups you are holding, as I nearly dropped my cup in shock. Now open again after someone kindly drove through the front of their store [reviewed April 2004]

Momento (one of them anyway)

Up by the Hospital, used to be Syrup. This was okay as a trendy coffee shop - The coffee was good, esp. the chai latte. There seemed to be only food cabinet on offer, and it was okay. After we had eaten, we saw someone get a salad, and that did look good, so maybe we should have looked a bit further. Grind on campus also has the same name, and another is the old Rocket in Hood St - they're everywhere! In fact I see from their website they are in Ulster St soon as well, looks like the old Food To Go place. [not reviewed since it changed]

Traffic

Where Heart & Soul was on the corner of Collingwood & Alexander Streets. Has a sign that looks like it says 'Frallic'. Looks like a trendy cafe, smells like a trendy cafe, etc. Anna says "Traffic is great! New owners since *about* May 2005, Debbie and Pete, Great people! Fantastic food, I'm a repeat Traffic offender, I'll be there almost every weekend for brunch. The menu is good with a good range of options, from muesli and pancakes to the 'Big Breakfast', which is BIG and beautiful, but you can choose variations of it and cut items off. Also on the menu is panini's, salads and bagels. A side from the menu they have a lovely cabinet always full of enticing things, from cakes and biscuits to salads and my current favourite the 'Tortellini Stack'. I definitely recommend it." Phew. Sorry Anna for my entry being so short. Went there and it was nice, but I wouldn't rave about it. Is getting a renovation, so not sure what it will reopen as... [reviewed Sept 2006]

Dora's

New cafe opposite Wintec in Collingwood St. Looks like a nice place to sit & drink coffee. Voted 7th for top coffee in the Wintec rag (Third Degree). We had breakfast there one day and it was nice - slightly unusual fare, but you pay for it. [reviewed Aug 2005]

St Lazarre

New cafe in Casabella in Barton Street, often just called the French cafe. Does great coffee, and the food was really good. The place was packed, and seating is not great, but service was good, and they were nice and friendly. The hot fresh croissants for $4 are great! Park on Alexander St and walk through. [reviewed Mar 2007]

Habit

In Barton St, at the end of Casa Bella lane. Used to be Columbus. Still a coffee and cake place. Lets hope it is as nice. [not reviewed]

S'Orbi

Used to be Ruby Black's, On Peachegrove Rd, beside the East St dairy. Has a nice outside area, wich used to have a sandpit to dump the small kids in, so is good if you have small kids to get rid of, but avoid if you want to avoid small kids. Ruby Black's food and service was good, but I cannot say about the new incarnation. Okay, this is run by Maggi's catering, who also run deVice Cafe at Waikato Innovation Park, and the food there is quite reasonable, so this should also be as good. [not reviewed since changing name]

Rocket Espresso Bar

Casa Linga

New place in Claudlands, on the corner leading to McDonalds bridge (which I will have to rename I guess, now that there is no longer a McDonalds on the other end of it). Looks to be run by the people from Food To Go. Nice food, seemed reasonably priced. We had a small wait for our food, but the waiter apologised. Seems very popular. Didn't have a coffee, so can't comment, but the cakes were nice. [reviewed Dec 2006]

Strata Cafe

Angel Cakes & Kofe

On Heaphy Terrace. Run by the person who used to make all the cakes at Hydro Majestic. Reputed to be nice, but somehow we have managed to not catch it open yet. Was tied in with Ruby Blacks somehow when Ruby Blacks was still going. [not reviewed yet]

Scooters

A cafe on the corner of Pembroke St, where Scoff was originally. Ironic, since Scoff were moved along to make way for a Pharmacy. Food was quite reasonable. Cakes were nice. didn't have a coffee - sorry. Has lots of gluten free foods, including the option of GF toasted sandwiches - if your that way inclined. For a place named Scooter (from the shop next door), you would have a hard time getting a mobility scooter in through their door. [reviewed Feb 2008]

The River Kitchen

The older 'new' cafe in half of what was Esscaba, which was half of the Le Grande cafe. Really enjoyed the food we had. Can't comment on the coffee, but it sounded nice. I get lovely emails from the owners sister, so go and try it. won Cafe of the Year 2010. Went again recently and it was still nice. [reviewed Nov 11]

Piccola

The other half of what was Esscaba, is now an Italian place. Opened for the V8s. Looks like it just does pizza and wine. Will have to try authentic pizza, although I think I am too bought up on the Kiwi style pizza to go back to one-topping pizzas. [not reviewed]

Crave

Zinc

Zee Cafe

Advertise lots on the radio - out past Hardly Normal. Not sure if it counts as a trendy cafe, but they push the coffee half of it. Also they don't open on weekends. [not reviewed]

Agio Cafe

In the building that has a huge sign outside that says Modena, so not sure why it can't be called Modena cafe. On Te Rapa Straight. Jacqui ate there and said it was fine. Usual cafe-style place. [not reviewed]

Impresso Cafe

deVice Cafe

Mexicomidas

Butterfingers

Chef's International

Used to be Gigilo's. Does Indian and other international stuff (the chef used to be at La Shiraz when it was good). This place is excellent - great value and the food is very good! Even better now you can sit indoors. Jacqui thinks that they do the best Butter Chicken in town, and that is saying a lot with the competition around. Does evening meals and you can now sit inside. [last reviewed Dec 2006]

Szechuan Style

Little place in Collingwood st. Was packed with asian looking people when I tried to go there last week, which is usually a good sign. aparantly the cold chicken dish at the top of the menu is excellent. The Sezchuan chicken is amazing - a huge pile of chilis, although the dish is not so hot itself - and at the end you have enough chillies to fill a whole container with them. The Kung Pow chicken is also worth a try. Sadly the cumin seed lamb was not as good the second time around. The Fish is fairly amazing, but at $40 feels a bit pricy. [reviewed Dec 2010]

Tuk Tuk

In the Casabella lane. Used to say it was Vietnamese food, but now just appears to be Thai. Excellent food, and good value. Also does evening meals and the menu is the same. The mixed entree platter is great at $6. Do try it. Also the Taro & Peanut entree. Now have a takeaway-only branch in Beerscourt, and one in Dinsdale. Must try that soon...and it was good :-) [last reviewed Feb 2008]

Theobroma Chocolate Lounge

Sushi One?

The Kobe in the Clyde St carpark in Ham East is now just a plain and boring sushi place. Not sure about the Hood St one opposite Centreplace, but I think it has also changed. [reviewed May 2003]

R & R South Indian

South Indian Restaurant on the corner of Clyde and Peachgrove. Good food by all reports, well at least cheap and tasty. [not reviewed]

Royale

The French Tart

Got an email from the 'new' owner Paul (since mid 2008), who says it is quite different now to when I reviewed it in 2007. Down on River Road, just by Fairfield bridge. I will have to pop in and try it out again. The food here was nice, although the non-tart food was a bit pricey. Friendly service, and we loved the Passionfruit Spider/float, but a pricy $4. The Tarts were nice, but they did not have anything really fancy the day we were there. [reviewed Jan 2007]

Kino

Sushi place in Cassabella lane (Barton st). Nice place with good sushi. The Chicken was nice, as was the dumpling. Has a menu of noodle dishes as well, but I did not try them. Is busy, which is always a good sign. Now twice as large, so they must be doing well. Also has opened a branch up on Vic Street next to McD's.

Wongs

Small asian takeaway in 5 Cross Roads (some relative of Wei Minns). And does chicken bits/nibbles. Food was very generous, reasonably nice, and some were in nice plastic bowls. Did seem to be adding lots of mysterious powders, so assume it has msg or somesuch. [reviewed March 2010]

Sushi-Ya

Used to be the Korean Cafe. I assume it does sushi...Ya! Okay, so I have since found out that the place you buy sushi from is called a sushi-ya. [not reviewed under this name]

Steamboat/Khmer

Sierra

Fairly pedestrian cafe in Barton Street. Can't seem to go past without saying "Phew, Sierra!" Ah, the days of misspent youth gaming. It is good in that it has lots of seats, so you can usually find a place. [reviewed sometime in 09]

Sushi Club

Used the be the Cafe Indulge/Red Copper Kettle. Never really was a good coffee shop, so lets hope the sushi has more luck. It seems a running trend that many cafes and closing down and turning into sushi places.

Ronnies Cafe

Used to be the Riviera Cafe. An import from somewhere else - there is one in Morrinsville. Seems to be popular. Please put an apostrophe where you feel it is appropriate.

Caffe Centrale

Went there because Andreas said it was an Italian restaurant and the salad he had was nice. It still has a lot of mexican, but without their mexican names. And italian and kiwi food. The Avocado fish was very good, but my gnocchi in sauce was boring - just gnocchi in sauce, nothing else. The mexican cheese dip (chilli con queso I presumed) wasn't as nice as Eldoradoes used to do. In total heresay mode, someone emailed me to say a friend of theirs emailed them (lost yet?) to say that it was great Italian.

Starbucks

Momento (second one)

In the 'fabulous' new shops at uni. Used to be Grind. Not a lot of atmosphere, but convenient. Had a burger there last night and it was quite decent - especially the curly fries. Although the $10 burger and fries looks a better deal. Recently we have been having issues when they close on friday afternoons. If you say you are open until 5pm, then be open until then. [reviewed Sept 2009]

Cafe 547

Cafe 547 is actually at 529 Grey St (obviously Cafe 529 sounded naff) [see the attached Hospital thingy at 547 Grey st] Lots of radio adverts, although do you really want to eat somewhere where "... the food, it all lingers". My Chai Latte was scoldingly hot, but nice (when it was cool enough to drink). Food was cafe-style and okay, but we only ordered from the cabinet, so maybe the menu is better. Apparently now do chocolate thingy's. [reviewed April 2003]

Urge

The Garden Terrace

Agora

Karyn Williams said "You may wish to add the Cafe next to Boutique Cakes in Frankton ( Kent Street ). They do the best date scones, seafood chowder ( Only on occasion ) biscuits and cakes to die for, and the best moccas and hot chocs......." Finally went for a walk through Frankton market just to find out what the name of this pelace was. Looked nice, especially as it was raining. Went to go there last Sunday only to find that it is a church on Sunday and not a cafe at all. So don't try going there on a Sunday. Went back recently and it was quite good, although the readings on the walls are kinda depressing. [not reviewed cause it was a Sunday]

Vetro

Opposite countdown in Anglesea st. Sells Mediteranean foodstuffs (lots of types of pasta and pasta sauces), pickles & olives, etc. and has a limited cabinet of food you can eat there with your coffee. Food was okay, but not stunning. Range might be better if you go earlier. For all that it sells pasta and pickles and crostini/grissini, there wasn't an antipasta platter, or somesuch, in the cabinet. There was a bowl of pasta with vegetables (olives, artichokes) stirred through. But it would be better to see a menu that utilised the exotic stuff you can buy in packets on the shelf. [reviewed July 07]

Lexa

Was Paris, but I think it has changed names again.... still something French looking/sounding. Small place on Alexandra Street. Don't know who goes there, unless it is people in the apartments upstairs. [not reviewed]

Curry Pot

Indian place in Ham East where Goodfellas was. Really don't know if we need another Indian in Hamilton, especially since Masala Club has closed. [not reviewed]

Babaganush

Cafe place in Ham East I never bothered with (A Robert Harris, or somesuch) turned into a cafe, that I think I poked my head into once, then went back to Grey St Kitchen. Has now turned into Babaganush. No idea what it is like inside, cause it was raining so hard I didn't bother crossing the road. Apparently you have to go up to the counter to order food, so a cafe not a restaurant. Menu looks more dinner-like than lunch, with dinner prices also. [not reviewed]

Smo's

Cafe in the old railway buildings off Rifle Range road. Seems nice enough. [not reviewed]

Agenda

The front half of the Outback is trying to set itself up as a pub for professionals, with a table-wait service. Will wait and see if it helps their reputation. I see it does food. We almost got enticed in by some friends who were brunching there, but we had a previous engagement. Must be better than I thought since it is still going and looks busy. [Not reviewed]

Hamilton Happy Day

'Happy Days' are here again, as it were, but apparently not the same as the Happy Days that was there. Kremlin Bar/Palladium has reverted back to a buffet food place. Apparently does a mix of everything from Roasts, to Indian, to Chinese. Still looks like a dark hole when you peer into the gloom from the street, and the front is now a dairy/shop. [not reviewed]

Some Sushi place

Used to be the Frankton Junction Cafe then Kwizeen. Now just looks like a (slighly sad) ordinary sushi place.

Kismet

Te Awa Kuini (The River Queen)

Cafe Francais

Was B.B.C (and the Admirals Arms pub before that), opposite Victoria Cinema. Presumably does French food. I liked BBC, for all that it had pokies in the corner. Wonder if it still has them now? [not reviewed]

Velo Espresso

A bike and coffee shop in Garden Place. Used to be the Silver Surfer. I guess you can go in there for a flat (white) with your flat. badum-chah. [not reviewed]

Coffee And Food Establishment

In Hood St. Cleverly spells C.A.F.E. Presumably sells coffee and food. [not reviewed]

House

Don't think it was named after the music. Used to be the Loaded/Old Hog, but dropped the franchise. Then had a competition to come up with a new name. and sadly all they could come up with was 'the hog'. The food here is pretty good, and although the menu doesn't change, it just lists a bunch of ingredients and I am told that what they do with them changes regularly. Which is a shame if you liked the onion rings they used to have, cause they may not be like that next time you go. [reviewed late 2010]

The Cook

Cock and Bull

Out past the Base. Does good pub food. The cheesy garlic bread is good. So is the Yorkshire pudding. I don't think much of the atmosphere, but it is good for a bunch of people, especially if some of them like beer. Now seem to be sending me emails that annoyingly look like spam. [reviewed Oct 2008]

C.B.D.

Londoner

Where Armadillo's was. Does reasonable pub food. Not much atmosphere, but they do try. [reviewed a while back now]

Bar 101

Was Spirit'd. Don't think they bother with food anymore. The people have ripped the guts out of the grotty pub that was there and added lots of windows to make a very nice place. Shame it only has bar stools. I do hope the pool tables are still free to diners. [not reviewed]

Still Working

tdo (The Dinsdale Office)

Has gone upmarket, and does food now. Still a pub tho. Went there on a tuesday - the place was quiet, but the bar staff didn't feel like making an effort when we first walked in. The food was reasonably good - we had the special twice-cooked pork, but it was not very spicy/flavoursome. Certainly not in the league of the porkbelly at Metropolis. But it was better than I expected. Will probably go back and do more normal food there, seeing as it is the closest thing we have to a 'local'. Yeah, was worth a second visit. Now pushing their 'beer-can' chicken. [reviewed Aug 2008]

Bahama Hut

Used to be Revert, then Fuel. Now is a student bar. Dunno if it does food at all. I left after 5 minutes on the pubcrawl as it was far too smokey and loud, especially for the dozen people they had in the bar. Loud noise and a smoke machine does not make up 'atmosphere'. The swings at the bar are a bit tacky. [not reviewed]

The Riv

Eastside

Pub food at the Eastside Tavern. This was a lot nicer when I tried it recently. Give it a go. [reviewed Jan 2005]

Shenanigans

Short lived Corner Post/Amber Lounge/Mooses has had a major facelift into a nice looking Irish pub. It seems popular, and for the first time in ages looks like somewhere I would be tempted to go into. [not reviewed]

Easy Tiger

Used to be Tokyo in Hamilton, then Harry's Karioke, then something else. Looks like a flash pub now. Obviously if they called it "Easy Couger" then that would have been too obvious... Apparently does "fusion asian cuisine" from their adverts, but the menu doesn't look that fusion to me. [not reviewed]

Rodeo Rodeo

Pit Lane

Hole in the wall pub in Frankton village. looks sufficiently bogan. [not reviewed]

Flaunt

Was "Your Mum's" - used to be CazBar, in the Hood Street marketplace. Apparently a topless bar as an attempt to lure munters in. Which presumably is why it looks completely shut up whenever I go past - or is it just out of business? [not reviewed]

5 Crossroads Sports Bar

Used to do reasonable pizza, but not much else. Don't know if it still does. Anyone want to comment? [not reviewed]

HSL

On Hood St, where Singer/Zephyr/the florist used to be. Turned into a pub - Hood St Local. [not reviewed]

Keystone

Diggers

The Quadrant

The Fox & Hound has had a facelift. Sounding more scholarly for a pub. Although aparently I am confusing myself with Quadrangles from Oxford. [not reviewed]

Rhythm & Boogie

were Flame was. don't think it does food at all. [not reviewed]

The Hood

I see Coyote has decided to move around the corner into Hood St and to change it's name to 'The Hood'. How original. Next to 'Coffee And Food Establishment' so presumably run by the same person given the nomenclature. My guess it has also given up the pretense of serving food and is just a bar, but will wait and see. [not reviewed]

Hell

Scoff

Pizza Hut

Dominos

Nando's

Seafood Grotto

In Frankton Village. Essentially a fish'n'chip shop with seats out the back. Cheap and cheerful, with lots of local colour. The fish was lovely. the rest was ho-hum. and yes Malcolm, we also got the 'yous want eggs wiv that' with every order. [reviewed Junish 2007]

GelatAmore

Original California Burrito Company

Just opened out at The Base/Te Awa. Menu looks good. Food is pretty good. Tables & stools aren't that comfortable. The mild is kinda bland, so I suggest going for the medium (except perhaps on the cheese quesadilla where it dominates a bit much). Certainly beats the pants of Mexicomidos. I hope the burritos don't get stingier as time goes by. [not reviewed]

Vilagrads, Ohaupo

Woodbox, Mystery Creek

Narrows Landing, Narrows

Black Rock Cafe, Raglan

In the Harbourview hotel. This was very good - I had the baked whole baby salmon and it was divine! The meals are really good "trendy cafe" style food. Watch out for the Hot Chocolate - it's the size of a soup bowl, and 'Milo'ey!

The Shack, Raglan

Was Tongue and Groove. Inside is less memorable, and everyone serving was foreign. Food was good, and coffee was nice. but I think I preferred the old place.

Vinnies, Raglan

Marlin Cafe, Raglan

Lots of radio adverts, looks like a bar. Down by the docks. Hopefully it does good fish, being next to the wharf. [not reviewed]

Blacksand, Raglan

Used to be Aqua Velvet/Molasses. Looked pretty shut and it was a Sat dinnertime, so either it only does lunches, or has not opened yet, or gone under already. comments anyone? [not reviewed]

Zaragoza, Raglan

New place. Looks nice inside, and the menu sounded alright. Met the owners, who seemed nice people. We had a lovely meal there just before xmas. Waiters were nice and the food was excellent. Really liked the garlic bread. We did the meze entree which was a lovely sampler of tiny morcels that taste lovely but do not full you up. [reviewed Dec 08]

Orca, Raglan

Costa's Pizza, Raglan

Does Pizza that is apparently 'good' by what I have heard. [not reviewed]

Sushi Takeaway, Raglan

Big sign above the door, but not sure if I have ever seen it open. [not reviewed]

Red Cherry Cafe, SH1 just before Cambridge

Boatshed Cafe, Karapiro

Rouge, Cambridge

Stables, Cambridge

Onyx, Cambridge

Indian Aroma, Cambridge

Oasis, Cambridge

Now seems to be just Thai food. so can't comment on what it is like now. [not reviewed since it turned Thai]

Deli on the Corner, Cambridge

New coffee shop in the funny little wedge shaped place in the main street by the roundabout. Somewhere to go to get proper coffee in Cambridge. Nice food. Now much larger and nicer for the extra space. Alice says "Hugely popular, Great coffee, friendly atmosphere. The staff are helpful, although do sometimes seem uneducated, and the owner is upbeat. Prices have recently gone up, a piece of pizza is 5.50 or so. and a Latte is 3.50. nice on a sunny day when your not trapped inside with the rest of Cambridge. Good blackboard variety." [last reviewed Dec 2010]

Toccata Cafe, Cambridge

Upstairs in the revamped church. Can't remember right now what it is. Used to be All Saints Cafe offering anointed coffee and divine cuisine. Funny it seemed like ordinary tea and scones when I was last in there. A cafe with pretensions, methinks. The shop is worth a look at.

Rata, Cambridge

Used to be The Gallery. This is a great place for food. seating is a bit haphazard, but the place is convivial. Try it. [reviewed 2008 sometime]

Instone Cafe, Cambridge

Sila, Cambridge

GelatAmore, Cambridge

Nice little shop that does fresh Gelato, and it is very good and reasonably cheap too. Well worth a visit on a sunny day. The Rum & Raisin was very good - actually they all were. [reviewed Dec 2005]

Flavers Cafe, Cambridge

Trying to be a trendy cafe in Cambridge. Food was reasonably nice, and it is nice to sit outside and eat. My burrito was good, with a nice amount of spice. Coffee and cakes were also said to be good, but I was hanging out for Gelato from next door. [reviewed Dec 2005]

Hello India, Cambridge

GPO, Cambridge

Used to be the General Post Office (hence the name). New restaurant in the middle of town. Simon emailed me to say "GPO in Cambridge will NEVER get my custom due to the ridiculously heavy handed 'fun police' signage, although it is worth stopping to read it, honestly, it's like the Gestapo have gone into partnership with Mormons ..." [not reviewed]

Robert Harris/Cloisters and Courtyard, Cambridge

Not sure where these are, and they may have been replaced by some other cafe on this list, and I was just unaware that it was in the same premesis. Cloisters appears to have the same address as the Robert Harris Cafe, but cannot tell which is newer from the interwebs. Got an email recently from a Cambridge-ite with these comments:
"Cloisters' staff are friendly, but the food is basic and the selection small. Coffees ok, same with the food.
Courtyard Cafe, its struggling and the selection is small. Staff are rude and service is slow." [not reviewed]

Fran's Cafe, Cambridge

Bambino's Cafe, Cambridge

Bambino's says it is kid friendly. So go there with your kids. Tucked down the back off the main drag. [not reviewed]

Cafe 55, Cambridge

Alice told me about this place, and said "A failed attempt at looking upmarket. Small selection, bad coffee, rude staff." Anyone want to contradict her? [not reviewed]

Kisso Sushi, Cambridge

Umm, has a sign that says it does sushi... not a lot more I can say, sorry. [not reviewed]

Breakfast Shed, Cambridge

Used to be Absolute. I am not surprised it died since I was always doing about 70km when I pass by this place. Says it will open Monday, so should be open by the time you read this. Fingers crossed it stays open. Doesn't look inspiring from the outside. [not reviewed]

Cafe IrresistiBlue, Cambridge

Mellow Manor, Matangi(ish)

Used for weddings and functions. See the sign, but never been there. [not reviewed]

Country Lane Cafe, Pukerimu/Leamington

Ann says "Country Lane Cafe on the road between Leamington and Te Awamutu is great. Licensed. Rammed earth cottage built by the owners. Lovely gardens to sit in and wander round. Usually heavily booked." [not reviewed]

Splashy Cafe, Hautapu

HerbsNZ Cafe, Whatawhata

The FirePot Cafe, Gordonton

Got a lovely email from Brent & Michele, who run the place, inviting me to "pop in and experience our home made food, fantastic coffee's and very friendly service. Our hours are mon-Friday 8am to 4pm. We have an very good range of home made fare from both our cold cabinet, and our all-day brunch menu. You must try our Lemon muffins with zesty lemon yogurt which we bake from an old recipe everyday, and always sell out very early. We also have a fantastic little peoples platter for $8.00 with has a selection of carrot sticks, crispy savory noodles, marmite sandwich, fruit, marshmallows and mini hot cakes with a fluffy. (just like mums)." I will try and do that shortly, thanks. [not reviewed]

Woodlands Cafe, Gordonton

Willow Glen, Gordonton

Midway Garden Centre Cafe, Gordonton

Woodside Estate Cafe, Matangi

Jacqui went for a girls lunch out here when it was Piko Cafe, and said it was good, with some reservations. Since I wasn't allowed to go, I can't give you much more than that. But I have heard it is good from several people, so go try it and let me know. Carole says "Hi, just visited the Piko cafe at Matangi a couple of weeks ago, March 2007. I liked the setting, and the food looked good and service was good, however think i made a bad choice, my raspberry and coconut muffin was not to my liking, infact I just could not eat it, my husbands carrot cake was ok, nothing to rave about. I would give it a second chance though, as perhaps my taste buds just were not performing well that day. There was a fairly limited choice in the cabinet, as with most of these type of cafes, and the lunch menu was reasonable. Not one of my favourites so far, but as the setting is rather nice, I would go back a second time and choose something different." [not reviewed]

Hudson's Restaurant & Bar, Hamilton Airport

Punnet, Newell Rd

Just out of town on the way to the airport. Run by the Strawberry place, so I had hoped it had lots of strawberry dishes. but alas, not a single strawberry on the menu. Food was good, although the pasta dish is not a patch on Scott's Aglio Olio. We had 3 people ask if we wanted a drink within a minute of sitting down, which I guess is good service. Not sure if I would bother going back tho, given you can get much the same in town. [reviewed Nov 2011]

Gostiona, Ohaupo

Just out of town on the way to Villagrads. Used to be a great steak-house. The decor is amazing, what Brad would call "a hunting lodge for rich wierdos". The food was nice, in a large steak and plain steamed vege way, and cost more than I expected. Go if you like Cobb & Co, but want to spend a bit more for better atmosphere. Now that Cobb & Co is gone, it is a quaint reminder of restaurant days gone by.

Clock World Cafe, Ohaupo

The Old Creamery, Ohaupo

Lily Pad cafe, Cambridge

Windy Ridge Cafe, Ohaupo

The Olde Garage, Pirongia

Another "Old" store & cafe - and they say the Waikato is backward. Not sure this is still going. [not reviewed]

Pirongia Village Cafe, Pirongia

If this is the one in the middle of town, it was quaint and enjoyable. The regulars were all having toasted sandwiches, so we tried them and they were good. [not reviewed]

The Persimmon Tree, Pirongia

This was okay. pleasant seating, but not much view, except the mountain behind you. The iced chocolate was nice, but felt a bit pricey. food seemed average. Could not see a persimmon tree. [not reviewed]

Redoubt Cafe/Bar, Te Awamutu

The Ale House, Te Awamutu

Central Cafe, Te Awamutu

Used to be the Bank cafe, cause it was in an old bank, but now has changed names and owners. Was closed when we went by, so cannot comment on what it is like now, sorry. [not reviewed]

Elevations, Te Awamutu

June recently emailed me to say: "We have a nice new resturant/cafe called Elevations, it's upstairs in Market Street. Can't say too much as I have a family connection to the owner but the food is nice." go on June, give us a review, we can take it with a pinch of salt. [not reviewed]

Cafe 10, Te Awamutu

@Mitre 10 presumably. All I have seen is a photo - looks nice and they have a proper coffee machine, but that is all I can say. looks okay from the road. [not reviewed]

Sugoi Sushi, Te Awamutu

Naomi wrote me "It's my favourite Sushi place to go whenever I am in Te Awamutu which isn't as often as I would like. The sushi are always generous in proprotion for a suhi and the taste is divine. You always have to make sure you go early in the morning when they open or your choices are greatly limited because it is such a popular place." Thanks for the email Naomi. [not reviewed]

Indian Aroma, Te Awamutu

Another branch of the Hamilton one. Probably much the same. [not reviewed]

Indian Palace, Te Awamutu

BOFH has just berated me for not including "the tiny little Indian place in Te Awamutu, on the main street past the cinema and RSA but before the last roundabout.  Almost beside a dairy.  Looks like it was a dairy once.   Exceptional food for such a tiny little place. Their indian food is different - and good.   You'll know what I mean - the flavours are just different, but very nice. AND they give you a small thing of mango icecream at the end too!" [not reviewed]

Salvadors, Te Awamutu

Cafe/Patissierie in TA. sounds mighty flash, but I assume it is just a bakery/cake shop. Susan says "It's a French cafe, originally started by a French couple, and sells amazing brioche and croissants and bread (as well as lots of other calorific French treats).  Great, really strong French coffee, and hotdogs in a french bun, a bargain at about $3.   Yes it looks rather unprepossessing from the outside but don't be fooled by appearances... It's always busy, the coulple that now own it (brother and sister) have terrific service and remember their customers well. It's my favourite spot for lunch in T/A." [not reviewed]

Lemongrass, Te Awamutu

Thai place in TA just up from McDs. umm, nothing else to report really. [not reviewed]

La Hacienda, Te Kuiti

Kerry wrote me "You can get nice Mexican (not authentic, kiwi style, but yummy & priced well) in Te Kuiti!! La Hacienda, on SH3, you'll pass it on the left heading south - it's on the main road side of the shops in the middle of town, next to the Testing Station & just south of the BP on the corner. La Hacienda is a cafe, so is open all day. Last time I went they had an impressive pick'n'mix lolly display & the best homebaked cookies for $1. It's not gourmet stuff at all, more like Mexican you'd make at home, but it's nice & in Te Kuiti which is hard to believe." Thanks Kerry, but I could not find it when we drove round Te Kuiti, so either I am blind or it has gone. [not reviewed]

Bosco Cafe, Te Kuiti

Banco Cafe, Te Aroha

Big and red and used to be a bank. Only does dinner on Fri & Sat. Graham and Yvonne from Hamilton really rate this restaurant as a place to dine. The counter food for the lunches is good and the coffee is always flavoursome and hot. The meals at night not only look good, but they taste great. To cap it all off Jane, the owner, is a wonderful hostess with a terrific memory for her irregular clients. [not reviewed by me]

Thistles, Morrinsville

Can't tell if this was Ruby's or has turned into Ruby's Cafe. Got this lovely revue from Carole: "Hi there, just wanted to say I have visited the Thistles at Morrinsville a few weeks ago and would like to pass on my comments. Being a Scottish lass thought I would see what it was all about, more a restaurant than cafe I think, as limited choice in the cabinet, even though it was 11am, but I enjoyed the atmosphere, a little Scottish themed but could have more I think. Only had choice of two muffins, (we stopped for morning snack) savoury or blueberry, but must say was presented very nice on plate with knife and fork, serviette, butter and a dipping sauce, most unusual, in a decorative way, and still only $2.50. The muffin was very yummie too - bit different to what I have tasted before. Also a small free yummie biscuit with the tea we ordered, so on a whole I think it was pretty good and would return, probably rate it a 7 out of 10, I also saw other meals being served, they looked very nice and quite good size, service was pretty ok as well." [not reviewed]

Chambers, Morrinsville

Garth says "Come over some time and try the counter meals at The Council Bar and Cafe in Canada St. (Used to be the old Municipal Chambers, hence the name.) They do very nice bar meals at around $10.00 - generous helpings - and have a good selection of drinks available. There is also a restaurant." Thanks for the tip, Garth. We were going to eat here, but could not find it. [not reviewed by me]

Blue Cat Cafe, Morrinsville

Susan says "When you are next in Morrinsville stop for lunch at the Blue Cat Cafe, lovely fresh food at reasonable prices, great coffee too." Thanks for the tip, it was very good. large servings at great prices - the coffee and food tasted good. The custard squares weren't my cup of tea, but my chocolate/orange slice was great. [reviewed Sept 2005]

Frock, Morrinsville

In the Anna Stretton factory showroom. was closed when we went past. [not reviewed]

Crazee Cow Cafe, Morrinsville

On the corner just up from the Council Cafe. Went there the other day as it was the closest to the church we went to for the funeral. The coffee's were fine. The menu looked pretty interesting, but we weren't there for food. The glasses look a bit crazed from being through the dishwasher too much. Another Mad Cow cafe... [not reviewed]

Ronnies Cafe, Morrinsville and/or Matamata

Same people as the Hamilton one. In fact I think this one came first. Or is it Matamata... I always get them confused.. [not reviewed]

Workmans Funky Cafe Bar, Matamata

The Loose Goose, Tirau

I can't believe that I have not already got this place on my page. The Loose Goose is a good place to stop and eat or coffee. The meals were good. I went there when they had a live fiddler, so it was packed, but still convivial and the food was still good. As an aside, the fiddler turned out to be the ex of the new husband of a good friend of mine, so it is a small world.

Poppys of Tirau

Now has a big corrugated iron poppy on the roof, so it is now easy to spot, opposite the big dog - it always has a crowd of people and cars outside it, so that must say something. Got listed in the AA Magazine as a good roadside food place, but no details. Carolyn sent me an email saying "Excellent reliable well priced food, clean and presentable - especially their toasted sandwiches made to order and the homemade soups in winter are hearty." Thanks Carolyn. [not reviewed]

Crazy Cow Cafe, Putaruru

Got an email today from Red saying "great stylish relaxing cafe on highway one we stop at, superb coffee and generous servings, the cafe is in the wrong town though nothing much else there, worth a stop though miss out tirau and stop in putaruru. check it out". Thanks for the tip, I will try to make it. More 'mad cow' references... [not reviewed]

Motormania & Cadillac Cafe, Putaruru

In the old round post office. Dunno how good a cafe it will be - presumably to have a coffee after seeing the cars. [not reviewed]

Cooks Landing, Te Kauwhata

Huhu Cafe, Waitomo Caves

Roselands, Waitomo Caves

Rangiriri Tavern, Rangiriri

Used to be a lovely pub to go to for a night out from the Tron. Haven't been in years, but it looks the same from the outside. [not reviewed]

Hopin Stopin, Taupiri

This place always has cars parked outside it as we wizz past, so it must be doing something right. Love the green paint. Ate there recently and it was great. very generous serves and lovely outside in the courtyard. [reviewed Dec 2010]

Twin Rivers, Ngaruawahia

Teresa tells me "Twin Rivers is next to the Delta down Market Street (with the cars in the carpark).  It shares a kitchen with the RSA which is next to that (they have an ass of a neighbour who owns the pool).  We're members of the RSA so often go down for a pint and a meal.  Members can either sit in the RSA dining area or go through to the Twin Rivers tables.  The food is excellent, albeit homely! Great priced meals - Club/RSA pricing - including seafood, steak & mixed grill etc. Twin Rivers also has a buffet for about $20ish/adult with heaps of great options so if we go to the RSA we usually have that!" [not reviewed]

Cury Ana Hury, Ngaruawahia

Adam recently told me "Might I recommend you stop in at Cury Ana Hury (the food is actually as fresh as the name) when you next are on your way out to/through Ngaruawahia.  It's in the middle of "town" on SH1, next to the giant orange eyesore of a sports shop, Sports Safari. It's a split personality Thai + Indian restaurant with full menus (and I mean full) for both cuisines. I think they have one Thai and one Indian chef. It is growing on the locals so doesn't have much atmosphere to speak of yet, but the food is very good and reasonably priced (almost all under $20).  I've eaten at pretty much all the Thai places in Hamilton and I'd say Cury Ana Hury is as good as the best in terms of food." [not reviewed]

Country Cafe, SH1 just south of Ngaruawahia

Odd place in the middle of nowhere, opposite the golf course. Normally has a couple of cars outside, but that could be the owners. Sorry bout the photo, but I am normally on my way somewhere when I go past, and don't have time to stop and take a photo. [not reviewed]

Karapiro Cafe, SH1 just south of Cambridge

Realised looking at the above photo that there is another odd place in the middle of nowhere just south of Cambridge. Used to be a compulsory bus stop. Forget to take a blurry photo of it when we were coming home from Toke last weekend. [not reviewed]

Albericos, Tokoroa

Out in the Styx, Arapuni-ish