Teddy's- CLOSED

Overview

If you're looking for something to cuddle, perhaps some European comfort food from Teddy's might suffice. Step off Ponsonby Road and into the breezy, light-filled oasis that is Teddy's and let yourself unwind. You'll find the opening in the space formerly known as MooChowChow. Gone is the soft shell crab and pork hock; now you'll encounter simple, classic bistro fare.

Whether you're riding solo and keen to indulge in a wine or two in the name of self-care, or up for inviting the whole entourage, Teddy's is the ticket. Bursting with sophistication and the ability to wow, Teddy's is certainly somewhere you want to bring people. It has oodles of space so your fear of rejection won't need any facing this time. Choose to sit in the front dining room and watch the magic of cocktail invention at the bar, or retreat to the back where you'll feel like you've been abducted by some very friendly aliens with a lovely cosy UFO (it's a world away from any chaos).

Select from a menu that incorporates fine European dining with a hearty dose of comfort food; a combination desired by all but admitted by few (FOBB: fear of being basic). The 250g dry-aged sirloin with café de paris and shoestrings fries ($32) is essentially just a hearty piece of meat with a large helping of French fries but if you're in the mood for a simple delicacy, you may have met your match.

Sans meat but equally indulgent is the celeriac gnocchi with wild mushrooms, chestnuts and autumn greens ($26), a welcome option to warm your tummy while you bask under one of the many heaters Teddy's provide for you. With this level of comfort it's uncertain whether you'll ever be able to reintegrate into the real world. Lighten the load with a side or two of vegetables, the roasted brussels sprouts with hazelnut beurre noisette ($10) or the chargrilled broccolini, anchovy, goats' cheese and lemon ($10) are both great additions to any main and are also good sharing options for those who need a few extra greens in their lives.

Escape the grey with Teddy's and hide among the green foliage and beautiful wooden décor. If you're not in the mood for a hug, try dessert; the deep fried apple pie with vanilla ice cream ($15) is a guaranteed mood booster and heart warmer, all in one.