The north of Ponsonby eventually creates a decent place to dine. Yes you will attracted by the…read moreperfect transformed "Old Ponsonby post office" into a bistro Augustus, named for the postmaster, Augustus Edward Braithwaite. And it won't be too difficult for locals to find out this new venture is a contribution from SPQR Owner Chris and his daughter Courtney Rupe to Ponsonby vividness.
Entering the high-ceiling lounge, expecting yourself in a tropical resort, surrounded by greenery with a courtyard extended your dining imagination. Perfect for most of Auckland's beautiful blue sunny days. In between, you will find yourself sitting in a cream and chocolate interior dressed in white linen. Simple, smart and classy.
Menu is focused in French bistro bites, you won't be surprised by meeting escargot, king crab cocktail, crab bisque, French onion soup, steak tartare. As for the main, from fish to pork belly, from Confit duck to veal cordon bleu, what's more you can even get treated by special Beef bourguignon, beef wellington. Yes what more can you expect?
Crab bisque serves warm with a heap of white flesh in the middle with a hint of basil taste. However, I prefer they have it served in front of customers, just adding a sense of warmness.
The duck liver parfait with wine jelly is a bit average and dull, if the toasted bread could be a better quality sourdough or baguette to pair with. Bread is pale speaking of a proper bistro for Augustus.
However, this is soon saved by Beef bourguignon, which is perfectly done putting time and efforts in the whole dish. Every bite is enjoyable. Soft tender beef texture, crispy pancetta, juicy shallots, all the ingredients are cooked in a beautiful balance. They nailed this classic dish. Then the yellow belly flounder is comparatively less scored even with its crab mayonnaise dressing.
The rhubarb tarte tatin and creme brulee for dessert is a perfect choice for most people. I do go for a bit old-fashioned, the humble Madeleines with lemon curd and cream. Baked to order, within 7 minutes, it came out freshly to your tastebud. Trust me, you wouldn't find a better lemon curd to match this happy ending.
Deserves a second and third visit, for sure, Augustus has more to come in the pipeline.
We just wish the summer would never go away.
