Miro

From brunch through to dinner there’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk into Miro, set within a 1934 heritage building. This is a smart, casual, inner-city restaurant serving modern New Zealand fare. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with dishes that reflect the best of Canterbury at any given time. Chicken liver pâté with plum gel and toast is a standout, given a light modern touch through its whipped, piped texture on toasted focaccia. A well-executed lamb pie follows a more classic line, simple in presentation but generous and satisfying. Dessert brings a familiar shortcake with macerated strawberries and rose mascarpone, lifted with subtle floral notes and a lighter, more modern finish. The drinks list is tight and well-structured, covering wines, beers, spirits and cocktails in a way that suits the smart-casual feel of the space. Under head chef Troy Tolentino, Miro delivers consistent, flavoursome cooking that feels both approachable, sophisticated and well considered.