I have now stopped twice for a bite to eat at Quattro located in Ascot Park virtually on the Greenlane motorway roundabout and just opposite the Novotel Hotel.
It was the bright red umbrellas that first attracted me and I’m so glad I went to investigate. North-facing with a lovely courtyard, Quattro’s very reasonably priced, contemporary, lip-smacking menu offered the likes of pasta, great salads, pizza, heartier meals and some yummy desserts. We liked it from the first. But it was the service we really fell for. On both occasions nothing was too much trouble and on the second visit staff members went out of their way to ensure a comfortable and quiet corner where our eight-week old grandson could be accommodated without us intruding on other diners.
Modern, with great indoor-outdoor flow and so very handy to the motorway, racecourse and Ascot Hospital we liked Quattro heaps. The food was good, the wine list, okay and the service tops. I’m looking forward to another visit.
Ohope by the sea:
A few weeks back I visited an old friend in Kawerau and we drove to Whakatane for lunch. As we drew close I suggested travelling the extra few kilometres to Ohope, which I hadn’t seen in years. What’s a fortuitous decision. Lucky to strike a beautiful, fine day we lunched at The Quay Café and Restaurant overlooking the reserve with the sea beyond.
Café-style meals, generous wine servings, cheerful service and a lovely location with views put us in holiday mode even though we had only a two-day break from work.
This little diversion renewed my interest in this appealing beachfront community and as we took a leisurely drive around, I spotted some great accommodation options. I’m now trying to work my charms on hubby to take a slightly longer break in the sunny Bay of Plenty – namely at Ohope and for sure we will be back at The Quay for lunch and probably dinner too!
Cheeky chutney:
Here’s a tasty new product just come in at Farro Fresh Mt Wellington – Lemon, Pernod and Mustard Seed Chutney.
This innovative condiment comes from Methven, Canterbury and locally-grown ingredients include 22% lemon zest, sugar, onions, zucchini, currants, pernod, spices, sesame seeds and lemon juice.
