Auckland has seen a number of great openings lately, but Apero - a lovely new wine bar with seriously good food - is a definite highlight. Chef Leslie Hottiaux (ex-The Grove) makes nearly everything on the menu from scratch, from fantastically flavourful pork sausages to beautifully light goat's cheese croquettes, while front-of-house Ismo Koski (ex-SidArt) is personable, knowledgeable, and the brains behind the killer wine list. It's an appealing, high-ceilinged space, with an exposed brick wall, beautiful wooden floors and banquettes and tables made by Leslie's father. Drop in for a drink or graze away an evening - it's open from 4pm and closed Tuesdays.

apero.co.nz