 We've all seen the images of New Zealand- impossibly green fields dotted with fluffy white sheep, pristine lakes reflecting snow-capped mountains. Oh, if we could only be transported there to the other side of the world! Well, you may be busy saving up for your plane ticket but you can still have a taste of New Zealand right here in the city. Fortunately for us, New Zealand chefs regularly make their way to our shores, as do many New Zealand ingredients, offering tantalizing opportunities for a quick culinary getaway.
First of all there's Public the new eatery opened this year by New Zealand chefs Peter Gordon, Anna Hansen and partners. Just wander over to Nolita for a taste of Pan-fried New Zealand snapper on a truffle, vanilla, and celeriac puree or a Roast New Zealand venison loin with a fig walnut chutney. This month Asiafood talked to Peter and Anna about their distinctive cooking style, which has garnered rave reviews worldwide.
 In addition, this month the
Millennium UN Plaza Hotel kicks off a
New Zealand Food Festival,
which runs from April 6 - May 6, at the hotel's Ambassador Grill. Guest chef Andrew Brown, executive chef of the Millennium Hotel Christchurch has designed a special menu that will feature New Zealand specialties such as lamb, venison, shellfish, native fruit and vegetables and New Zealand's national dessert - Pavlova. Diners will also be able to choose from a special selection of fine New Zealand wines to accompany their meal. Call 212-702-5014 for reservations.
Many other restaurants around the city also feature New Zealand ingredients. Chef Tom Valenti of Ouest appreciates their integrity of flavor: "It's almost as if New Zealand products have absorbed the beauty of where they're from." It's true, it's hard to look to New Zealand's lush pastures, clear waters and fresh air and not just know that what's produced there is going to be good. New Zealand lamb is already a well entrenched favorite, with fresh meat shipped daily to the US, and everyone knows about Kiwifruit, but look also for lesser-known ingredients like Tamarillos, Tarakihi, Whitebait and Hogget at tables near you!
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