u/Main-Economics-162

Best Chef, Lorne St, Auckland Central.

Golden Soup with Beef Noodles, $20
Dan Dan Noodle, $18

I’ve been here twice now, it’s a tidy spot with friendly service.

The golden soup with beef noodles was the standout for me. The pumpkin gives the broth a warm, comforting flavour that feels really nourishing. It’s a good winter warmer.

The Dan Dan noodles were massive, I struggled to finish them. They were good, but there’s something about these Dan Dan noodles that reminded me of spaghetti bolognese. The pork mince and noodles make it feel like the Chinese equivalent of spag bol, with a bit of spice/heat to kick. Makes you want to curl up for a nap afterwards

Located in Birkenhead.

The Agnes Burger - $28 + fries $4

Damn, I really enjoyed this burger. Simple, just 4 ingredients, but executed well.

Thick patty, well seasoned, juicy - Raclette cheese melted on top. Reduced onions and a dash of mustard between a fresh potato bun. This combination just works.

Fries were crisp- good crunch. No aioli though, I’m an aioli > ketchup kinda person

Sunday Roast, Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder - $37
Shoestring fries - $11

I’d been wanting to try the Warkworth Hotel for ages and finally got the chance this long weekend.

Operating since 1860s, it must be one of the oldest spots in the wider Auckland region. They’ve done a great job preserving the building’s original character while modernising it where needed (bathrooms etc.). Still has that traditional vibe, with plenty of old photos and memorabilia throughout. If you’re into local history, it’s a cool spot.

I haven’t had a proper Sunday roast in a long time, prob since last winter, so I was seriously looking forward to this. It delivered on all fronts tender, moist pork, bit of crackle, well-cooked roast vegetables, and a rich gravy that tied everything together. The yorkshire pudding made a perfect vessel for mopping up every last bit of gravy. Washed it all down with a Murphy’s.

Left feeling satisfied and will return. A great option if you’ve spent the day exploring the surrounding coastal spots and are looking for a hearty meal on the way back to the city

I recently found out that Dublin, Ireland sits at roughly the same latitude as Edmonton, Canada which surprised me- Edmonton looks much further north when you look at a map of North America vs Europe.

Despite that, the climates are obviously very different. From what I’ve read, Edmonton gets seriously cold in winter.

Keen to hear from anyone who’s lived there - what’s it actually like day-to-day? And being inland, what drives the local economy?

I’d love to visit one day!