Fort Greene – arguably the best Reuben in town. It’s also impossible to leave without taking home some croissants or sourdough. Consistently excellent.
Best restaurant for dinner with friends?
Prego, the outside seating is the best in summer. Loud, busy, sharp staff, duck risotto … and more duck risotto. Perfectly tied with my local neighbourhood bistros – Blue, Lilian and Ragtag, all too good not to mention.
The place to take a visitor to?
Waiheke Island. Ferry ride, vineyards, beaches and instantly gives visiting friends that unique Auckland feeling.
Best spot to finish a night out?
Kemuri Hi-Fi – tucked away in the basement at Commercial Bay. The lighting, music and considered cocktails make it the perfect intimate nightcap spot.
Best coffee?
Dizengoff or Beau. Simple, consistently excellent coffee, always served by a team with a genuinely friendly vibe.
Favourite fish-and-chip shop?
Marsic Brothers Fish Shop – old-school and worth the drive across town to Glen Innes. Generous portions, super fresh, and the wet fish selection is top-tier. FishSmith tacos in Herne Bay are hard to go past too.
Hiking trail?
Te Henga Walkway … west coast cliffs, black sand and huge skies.
Venue for a gig?
The Powerstation – intimate enough to feel every show properly. There’s a real nostalgia to it for me, so many formative nights out with friends and live music enjoyed there growing up.
Best spot for a bargain?
Avondale Sunday Markets. Get there early. The food stalls, fresh produce and the buzzing mix of people make it feel properly alive.
Fatima’s is one of 38 venues participating in PonsonBurger, Ponsonby’s Burger Festival running May 25 – June 8. On offer, a limited edition Mykonos Melt burger – lamb kofte, hot honey halloumi and Greek style salad in a pretzel bun. For more, see ponsonburger.nz.