Bars, Brasseries & Bistros in Hawkes Bay

11th September 2010
Diva is a bit of a landmark in Havelock North and has evolved from it's rough-and-ready beginnings to a sophisticated bar and bistro that wouldn't be out of place if transplanted to Parnell Rise or Ponsonby Road. Today, there are intimate booths, white tabled-clothed dining along with the wrap-around bar and outdoor 'look-at-me' area to take in the last of the day's sun. The food is surprisingly good sourced from local producers and the beers and wines are top class. A little on the pricey side considering you can get pretty much the same quality for $5-10 less within walking distance. But, really, you're there to be seen. The place is on the Havelock strip so can get a bit rowdy. Just plan your escape route for when the cougars come hunting!

20th July 2010
Went to Ale House for my birthday. Had a great meal a couple of quality wines and watched the rugby! Would definitly re-visit!

31st August 2010
Located a little off the beaten track from the usual winegrowing and touristy areas of Hawke's Bay, Brookfields certainly is one of Hawke's Bay's best kept secrets. This winery and restaurant is one of the oldest commercial wineries in Hawke's Bay for one very good reason - they're local and the quality of their produce shows a lot of experience and dedication. The layout of the premises is inviting, relaxing and really gives guests the feeling of being part of the winemaking experience. Upon entering the main building, one enters a winetasting room where experienced and enthusiastic hosts spoil you with the leading wines in their class and an enticing description of the product and the process that goes into each drop. As you sample their wide variety, you cannot help but notice all the winemaking and cuisine awards on the wall which certainly raises your expectations. Hosts then have the choice of dining in a wine cellar with a large open fireplace and floor to ceiling wine barrels or elfresco dining outside where one can enjoy a game of petanque in the Hawke's Bay sun. The food is well presented and the service is excellent. The lamb dishes are amongst the best I have tasted, the seafood exquisite and their breads divine. Every combination clearly has had a lot of thought put into it with emphasis on flavours without the clash. Pick of the wines are their whites, including Pinot Gris, Reisling and the best Gururztraminer you can find anywhere. For the mains their Syrah and Malbec are certainly special. The intimate surroundings and personal touches of everything about this place sets it apart from the other places in Wine Country. 5 out of 5. *Tastings are never a hassle but, as I found, always ring up ahead to check their restaurant hours.