Christmas Gift Guide: Restaurant Experiences They’ll Actually Love

This person is always ready to try something new and seeks a thrill. Carmen Jones is a great choice for lovers of buzz, music, and wine. The restaurant exudes a lively and adventurous spirit while capturing its philosophy of ‘bringing cultures together through food and hospitality.’ Delivering bold flavour, spice, and candlelight, Carmen’s creates the ultimate adventure right in the heart of Auckland. Dine with friends and family in evening sunshine and indulge in Spanish and Middle Eastern-style tapas and drinks. Carmen Jones also accepts Best Restaurant gift cards! 

Their clothes are often stained in paint, and they spend their weekends browsing galleries or dreaming about them! Rothko at Sculptureum, north of Auckland, captures the magical essence of art and cuisine. Basked in a serene country charm, the menu takes guests on a seasonal and flavourful journey, where ingredients pair perfectly with Matakana vineyard wines. Be sure to wander the sculpture garden trail after your meal for a full artist experience.  

They always have a trip booked, and their socials are full of photos of their adventures. Miyabi Japanese Restaurant will quench that travel bug right here in Wellington! Delivering an immersive experience of Japanese cuisine and culture, Miyabi has a diverse menu for your travel-loving friend to enjoy, including sashimi, sushi, and tempura. With authentic flavours, Miyabi is a great way to experience the true heart of Japan this holiday season.

Your loved one enjoys the finer things in life and is often found savouring a glass and taking in the view. This person knows luxury! Moy Hall Wines in Martinborough, just outside of Wellington, is the perfect match. Their cellar full of wine and menu of seasonal shared plates bring friends and families together. Sip homegrown wine, sample artisanal cheese, and enjoy the sprawling views of the lush vineyards.

Their evenings are spent curled up with a good book or movie, and their weekends are spent decorating and cleaning their space. Gin Gin in Christchurch captures a cosy atmosphere splashed with lush decor. The menu offers plenty of comfort food, including pizzas, beef carpaccio, venison, and their famous goji-brined chicken with shiitake mushrooms – a must-try! Tap your feet to the live music or lounge in the outdoor seating area for a unique and homely experience.

This person is happiest when enjoying a delicious meal with their loved ones. The Mediterranean Food Company takes guests on a culinary journey through Spain, France, Greece, and Italy. With its plethora of speciality Italian products to shop and take home, and house-made, ready-to-eat pizza, you are in for a quick, humble, yet flavour-packed experience. Sample gourmet cheeses, prosciutto and salami, exquisite European wines, and an authentic take on the diversity of Mediterranean cuisine.

They swoon over alpine views, crackling fires, quiet luxury, and, of course, a romance novel. Take your loved one to the Millhouse restaurant in Arrowtown, tucked into a historical timber and stone flour mill. This charming dining suite overlooks the enchanting Mill Pond and the sprawling 18-hole golf course. Its rich and earthy modern menu pays homage to local produce and even includes ingredients grown in the restaurant’s garden. Talk about romantic!

A morning is not complete without a strong and pungent brew. Take your loved one to the Odd Saint in Queenstown for the brunch and coffee of their dreams. Tuck into their delicious dishes inspired by both American diners and European bistros, all while taking in the views of the soaring mountains. It’s cosy. It’s sophisticated. And best of all, the quality is unreal. Your coffee lover will not be disappointed!