Palate

Located at the entrance to SkyCity Hamilton, Palate has long been one of the city’s standout dining destinations. Led by chef Mat McLean, the menu celebrates local, sustainable ingredients with thoughtful cooking that lets quality produce take centre stage. The dining room strikes a balance between comfort and style, with plush seating creating a warm atmosphere that suits everything from special occasions to a relaxed evening out. For something a little different, the Kitchen Table offers front-row seats to the action, where guests can watch the chefs prepare a bespoke seven-course seasonal menu. The food is confident without being overcomplicated. A grilled market fish served with hasselback potato, Waituna smoked eel, fennel and chive velouté is a standout, combining delicate flavours with beautifully balanced textures. If dessert is on the cards, the tiramisu baked Alaska with coffee crème is well worth saving room for, bringing a playful twist to a classic finish. Friendly, knowledgeable service, including excellent wine recommendations from sommelier Larissa Muller, ties the entire experience together, making Palate a restaurant that continues to set the benchmark for dining in Hamilton.