This popular neighbourhood hot-spot furnished and equipped with finds from second-hand stores is worth the short trip from the city centre. With only 22 seats – usually filled – there’s a menu that focusses on clever, low-waste options and an ethical approach. And it’s exciting and delicious! Watch Max Gordy and his team deliver big from a tiny workspace, slicing, dicing, cooking, tasting and plating all while enjoying casual conversation with hungry spectators at the counter. It’s genius. Fresh food that is sustainably sourced powers the culinary offering – Max sees sustainability as a direction rather than a destination and sources most of the produce from local farmers – and recycling and low-waste practices are second nature. The menu is backed by a thoughtfully curated wine list and cocktails that are a fun twist on the classics. Deliciousness and originality will be discovered in dishes such as crayfish and fennel rolls with radicchio slaw, pāua tamales with mole and pumpkin seeds, and butterfish crudo with tamarillo, chilli and oxalis. Doing good for the planet has never tasted or felt so good. Check website for opening hours MAINS: $25-$40