It takes a fair amount of innovation, creativity and flair to develop the hottest eatery in the rapidly expanding Britomart complex – luckily for Tony McGeorge (Ponsonby Social Club) and Krishna Botica (Prego), they have it in droves. The result? Cafe Hanoi
Having visited a few times previous to this particular occasion (once on a semi-busy Thursday and a really busy Saturday - this I hear is the norm at this place, so choose your dining evening accordingly), I selected a slightly more quiet Wednesday night for dinner. Having received word the basement bar was the place to go for a pre-dinner aperitif, we adjourned for cocktails in the underground cellar.
Immaculately designed and decorated, and with a shortlist of cocktails that will leave you reeling (from the taste), the subterranean alcove provides the perfect place for unwinding before dinner is served. I recommend the Lucky 13 cocktail, while the Old Quarter is something to go for if you're feeling in need of a stronger beverage.
The wait staff were highly attentive and the wine-list is well stocked, whilst the menu has a range of delicious morsels. Based on a “shared dish” approach, diners are invited to select a variety of dishes - I recommend the ‘shaky beef’ - just like James Bond’s martinis, they don't stir.
The food, as expected from the team behind Prego, was nothing short of sublime.