Lillius

On the busy and bustling Khyber Pass lies Lillius, a confident dining room where chef Fraser McCarthy delivers a tightly focused expression of modern fine dining. Lillius feels like one of those rare inner-city dining rooms where the outside world fades the moment you step through the door. Guests can choose à la carte or trust the chef, but either way the emphasis is on seasonal New Zealand produce, technical precision and clean, restrained flavours. Dishes like the market fish with brassicas and shellfish highlight the kitchen’s clarity of approach, fresh, composed and elegantly balanced. Desserts lean more playful, with a standout feijoa soufflé served alongside Anzac biscuit ice cream bringing warmth and nostalgia to a refined finish.The drinks list is equally well considered, designed to complement rather than overwhelm, with pairings that enhance the progression of each course. Lillius ultimately feels like a restaurant driven by ideas and precision, where creativity is expressed through control, detail and a deep respect for ingredients.