Where to Eat if Someone Else is Paying - dine

Peter Gordon is a legendary chef and dine in Auckland is one of his few restaurants outside of London. It’s not the type of place you go to for a quick bite. It’s like restaurants used to be when you were a kid, for special occasions only. The vibe is modern grand and every elegant - like being on the Titanic but without the impending doom. The food is sensational, very well considered and I guarantee there’s nothing on the menu that you’d think you could have a go at yourself. At times it can feel a little complicated but it’s always impressive. The only thing I’ve had there I didn’t like was the avocado ice cream - not even Peter Gordon could make that work for me. The degustation menu is outstanding. Start early though and save it for the weekend as it takes hours. Better yet, check into the hotel upstairs before embarking on it.

dine, SKYCITY Grand Hotel, 90 Federal Street, Auckland, New Zealand. (09) 363 7030; http://www.skycityauckland.co.nz/