Named after a city on the other side of the world, this fine-dining establishment that brings superb eating to the lakeside settlement is grounded in the local. Chef Phill Blackburne, who was born in Taupō, ended up in Edinburgh on his OE and ‘Embra’ is short for the place where he began his craft under the mentorship of chef Dominic Jack at the award-winning Castle Terrace restaurant. Since opening in January 2022, this restaurant has been attracting high praise from locals and visitors passing through who make the happy discovery. This is food of the quality that you typically don’t find in small, regional towns. The menu changes seasonally and is presented by principal ingredient – for example ham hock, gurnard, beef or persimmon, all sourced as locally as possible. Simple it may sound, but exemplary British and French cooking technique turns these treasures from the land and sea into triumphs. Check website for opening hours SET MENU: 3 courses $98 per person, 5 courses $125 per person