Overview
Usually when I go to cafes or bars named with possessive nouns like 'Steve's' or or 'Jane's' or 'Dave's' I feel underwhelmed. The general 'heart-warming' or 'homely' premise is something that most of these places aspire to but never actually quite reach. It also usually turns out to be a place where 'local' is a cheery euphemism for crappy and under-decorated, but nearby (hence local). So I was surprised that the Devonport local called Bette's was everything but underwhelming. In fact, its food and drinks easily rival some of Auckland's best.
Let's start with the strawberry vanilla mojitos. Now, on any given day mojitos are pretty wonderful creations. However, here at Bette's the mojitos have an extra little something special - a decent layer of real strawberries a added dash of vanilla, and freshly crushed mint leaves abound. It's an absolute post-work go-to type of drink, and Bette's absolutely nails it.
Then there's the food. I tried the gorgonzola and wild mushroom arancini balls, which were covered in breadcrumbs and deep fried for a crispy outside, but melted cheesy inside. There is only one appropriate word to use to describe it: yum. Other notable mention go out to the fish tacos and the hand-cut potato chips, which were also amazing.
The place itself is decked out in a way that's comfortable, but still a little bit special - riding the fine line between being a casual local and something a little bit more upmarket with ease. It's definitely one worth the visit, even if you aren't living on the shore.
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