I believe this spice company was the first to establish in New Zeland. They're well established…read more Besides, their prices are always competitive and quality is always fresh. I know a handful of restaurants buy from these guys only. Their owners and staff are always friendly.

To be honest, you are a money-wasting fool if you're buying your spices from the supermarket where…read more$3 nets you a tiny jar of cumin; at Mahedeo's you can get virtually a bucket of the stuff for the same price. OK, maybe not a bucket, but quite a lot. Mahadeo's is a spicy wonderland; it smells amazing, and it has aisles and aisles of spices, dried herbs, lentils, and other bulk food items like flour (including rice and chickpea flour). I can often be found wandering around here in a daze overwhelmed by all the choice. There's also a fridge dedicated to different plain yoghurt and paneer, as well as freezers with chapattis, rotis and the like, and a small range of produce - mostly things more difficult to find in other greengrocers like turmeric, small eggplants or curry leaves. If you're not sure of where something is, there's always someone on hand to help you out, and pro-tip: get a samosa if they've got some in the warmer: you won't be disappointed.

This place is absolutely fantastic. Very cost effective, huge range of different products, items of…read moregood quality. Given supply issues still impacting supermarkets you can 9 out of 10 times find an equivalent here. Big range of herbs, spices, ingredients, both local and imported. Staff are friendly. The ambiance is enhanced by the huge variation of people who shop here. Broad cross section of the community. I would hazard a guess, if you know this place you will come back repeatedly. If you don't know this place pay it a visit.

This place was a great wee find! Tucked in the corner of the Wendy's carpark in Mt Eden, it's very…read moreeasy to go about your life without ever realising Bulk Food Savings exists. Bulk Foods stock a very wide range of products, including dried fruits, nuts, organic products, flours and cereals, and all sorts of international food I'd never even heard of. Pepperdews, pomegranate molasses, Ceres organics muesli for only $9 and literally the biggest jar of gherkins I have ever seen - Bulk Food Savings was a delight to explore. I was stoked to find pure vanilla extract and vanilla pods in this store - they were much cheaper than at places like Nosh, and are great to use in baking. The only downside of Bulk Foods was the staff. They weren't particularly inviting nor were they very friendly, but hey - when the variety of food is that good and the prices are so low, who cares? You can't have everything! Bonus: It smells fantastic in Bulk Foods - all the different spices merge in to one mouth-watering fragrance that instantly inspires you to cook delicious Indian curries.

The day I discovered Khyber Spice Invader was the day I decided to never buy packet spices again. I…read morewas so completely astounded at how cheap spices are when you buy in bulk that I was sent into a blind rage. What the hell, Gregg's? Why do you charge $3-5 for a small box of spices when Khyber Spice Invader can sell me the same amount for 10 or 20 cents? Here's a tip - head out to your local $2 shop, buy up a huge number of tiny sealable containers and a packet of stickers, then go and stock up on every single spice you've ever used or wanted. I guarantee you won't spend more than $10 doing so at Khyber Spice Invader. While you're there you can also choose from a range of Indian vegetables, curry bases and sauces, all cheap as well. Worth the trip out to the suburbs, every time!

Shortly after arriving to New Zealand from India, Sanjay and Vibha set up business in the area…read moreclosest to their heart...Food. A decade ago they founded "North Shore Super Store" the area's first Indian grocery store which soon flourished thanks to business acumen and an ability to constantly cater to their community. http://www.spiceneasy.co.nz offered online shopping - again considering the convenience of their customers with busy lifestyles. 'Spice n Easy' was the natural progression from here, inspired by the interest customer showed to want to cook authentic Indian food with true flavours. Catering to this ever increasing demand for mixed blends of Indian spices, they organized Indian Cookery workshops at the local Highbury Community House, which led to their idea for pre measured and packed spices including tried and tested family recipes to make it very simple for people like "me" to cook authentic Indian dishes at home. Trips back to India, prototypes, quality inspections then product positioning and distribution chains are all behind them now, 'Spice n Easy' is distributed in hundreds of nationwide outlets including butchers/Greengrocers and various sea food markets. Totally packaged in New Zealand, this is a Birkenhead success story.

I love these mixes sadly my favourite the Prawn one doesn't seem to be available in Wgtn.read more

Everyone has heard of Milse. Now famous for the long queues outside the little shop, I can still…read moreremember the first time I stepped inside. Now taking it into their own hands, husband and wife duo Brian and Roselle Campbell have created Sweet Cuisine pop-ups as real time crowd funding for their own dessert shop. I met them and interviewed them earlier this year and they are just the sweetest and most talented team. Clooney had always been on my radar for special occasions but other places had always gotten in the way. When word got out that we would get to dine at the flash Belle Epoque room downstairs with the open kitchen, all my excuses seemed irrelevant. It was the first time Sweet Cuisine had a communal dining format with a long table seating only 18 people. At the beginning, most people talked within their groups but being opposite interesting strangers, it was easy to start conversations. I went with fellow foodie and blogger Amy from My Dining Journey and we found out we were right next to amazing chefs and bakers. Convenient right? Turns out it was all planned with the thoughtful intentions of Brian and Roselle. Haha! Talk about knowing your customers well :) First course: Granny smith apple, feijoa, Heilala vanilla and ginger. Once I got over the initial thought that the egglets were not white chocolate, it was even harder to get over how cute they were. As a first course, I loved how light it was and almost teasing because soon everyone was scraping their eggs to get to that beautiful ginger which lay at the bottom. The combination of granny smith, vanilla and feijoa was a winner. Second course: Pineapple, passionfruit, coconut, banana and dulcey. It had the look of a beautiful Milse dessert but it didn't have the dark imprint of the overshadowing HIP group. I LOVED the small moichi-like balls on the side. Luckily the red chocolate ball was already halved. The rest of us just had to exercise our demolition skills as we tried to calmly break the case without sending shards across the table to our new friends. Third course: Figs, quince, honey, chestnut and oats This is where the flavours got interesting and complex. I'm not a fig person so I wasn't sure where my tastebuds would take me. If it was a normal degustation, I would consider this the mains. It was quite filling from the oats. The conversation took a funny turn with someone tentatively asking whether we were meant to eat the skin on figs. Even as "self acclaimed foodies" we didn't have a straight answer! Most people though, ended up eating the whole thing. Even I enjoyed it, although I couldn't expect any less coming from the Campbell kitchen! Fourth course: Valrhona chocolate, blackcurrant, coffee and hazelnut. Oh my. Totally the climax of the night. Not only stunning to look at, I was so inspired by the different textures that Brian had created on the dish. From the marshmallow to the mini magnum, my thoughts were only affirmed by the "oh wow"s around the table as everyone tucked into it. It was a pleasure watching Brian and his team at work. There was a calm aura as they lovingly put the desserts together. All the dishes were so clever and I know I left more inspired. As I came home to finish my marking, I knew I didn't make a mistake in breaking out of my nana mode. Starting off the week sweet was an uplifting start to the week. And knowing that macarons and cookies would be my morning tea for the next day kept the smile on my face. Even if I had accidentally squashed them in my bag (sorry Roselle!). Keep an eye out for their next pop-up! There's always something interesting about each one and they're popping up at restaurants like Orphan's Kitchen, Meredith's and Ima Deli. And if you haven't already seen it, here's the interview with Brian Campbell if you didn't catch it the last time.

Most of you would have heard of Milse. The amazing dessert bar and patisserie that opened up in…read moreBritomart a few years ago. Serving gelato on sticks, gateaux, chocolates, sweet tarts, plus their stand out macarons, Milse has become a bit of a phenomenon. Because really, who doesn't love chocolate and dessert?!?! The mastermind behind creating all of Milse's desserts is pâtissier, Brian Campbell. He has 15 years' experience working in Michelin star restaurants in the United Kingdom and at award winning restaurants here in New Zealand, at the likes of Kermadec and The French Cafe. Most recently, Brian has left Milse and has started up his own company, namely Sweet Cuisine' A Dessert Pop Up. So far, he and his wife, Roselle Campbell have hosted a dessert night at Fred's Espresso in Ponsonby where they teamed up with Giapo to create ice cream sandwiches, sundaes and drinks and they also had a dessert pop up at Merediths last week. And, a few nights' ago, I attended their second dessert pop up (however this one was special because all the desserts were made using Valrhona chocolate - the best quality chocolate in my opinion, you can buy it here) AND it was held at Sidart in Ponsonby. I have always wanted to dine at Sidart however it is quite expensive - will definitely need to save up one day! Brian and his team used the kitchens at Sidart and for about 20 minutes, my friend and I had the whole restaurant to ourselves, which was a pretty great feeling! The dessert pop up at Sidart involved a 3 course degustation - $45 per person, and an optional 4th course for $9, however sadly we were too full for the 4th course! All the dishes were beautifully presented and almost too pretty to eat! To accompany the desserts, they were also serving sweet Italian dessert wine, sparkling water, teas and coffee. My friend and I decided on a glass of the 'Prunotto Moscato d'Asti 2013′. With aromas of peach and honey, this was the perfect drink for our dessert night. The first dessert was a white chocolate panacotta, made of Ivoire 32% Valrhona chocolate. Surrounding the panacotta were bite-sized raspberries, blueberries and peaches, all topped off with freeze dried raspberries and fresh basil. It was a refreshing way to start the meal and the basil brought out all the flavours. I never thought to use herbs in baking, but I will definitely try it out now! The second course was a sponge like pudding with stewed apricots, hazelnut praline and a sauce inside using Dulcey 35% Valrhona chocolate. While the apricots were delicious, my friend and I could hardly taste the Valrhona chocolate - we felt like the apricots were too overpowering. This could possibly be due to the fact that the chocolate is only 35% - it might have a very subtle flavour. Last but not least, a to.die.for chocolate sphere, made entirely of Guanaja 70% Valrhona chocolate. Dark chocolate being one our favourite foods, my friend and I were amazed by this wonderful creation. Roselle explained the dish in great detail - two mousses, one with hints of tonka beans (vanilla bean substitute), and the other being rich and chocolatey. There was also a chocolate 'soil' surrounding the sphere, consisting of macadamia nuts, nougat and cacao nibs. But Roselle left out one surprise... Yes, popping candy! We were not expecting that at all, and it was truly the most exciting dish I have ever tasted. Every mouthful was full of joy and my friend and I couldn't stop smiling! It was a great night overall, with brilliant and creative desserts, a lovely host and a stunning venue. I cannot wait to see what is next in store for Sweet Cuisine! Note: If you would like some more information, check out Sweet Cuisine's website and Facebook page ("Sweet Cuisine' A Dessert Pop Up by Brian Campbell"), so you can keep up to date!

Miann came up in a search for dessert/pastries. I made my way over to the Britomart location which…read morewas closest to me. This location is high traffic as a lot of folks walk through to catch an elevator at the back of the facility...I still have no clue where it goes. Otherwise the space is well appointed with tables and chairs and a large case near the door with some is the most beautiful treats I've ever seen. It took me a long time to order, it was hard to decide. I even asked which dessert was recommended. I went with that, and cannot recall the name of pastry to save my life. I also ordered a latte with oat milk. Both were shortly delivered to my table and looked great. While the latte was perfect, I didn't love the pastry. I didn't dislike it either, I hustled wished I'd ordered something else. Ah well.

It was late, my coworkers and I were craving ice cream post-dinner. Miann was the sole option open…read morepast the usual closing time, so we decided to go there. While they didn't offer an extensive selection of ice cream flavors, as they aren't exclusively an ice cream shop, the fundamental ice cream options were delightful, and the servings were generous. Another colleague opted for cake and found it to be quite delicious. In general, a suitable spot for desserts, though it wouldn't be my top pick if it weren't for the time of day.

Farro Fresh in Grey Lynn is my food Mecca. It's almost overwhelming how much deliciousness they've…read moregot under one roof. From their fresh to death fruit & vege to their insane cheese section to their seemingly never-ending supply of artisanal condiments, sauces and the like... it's my first port of call when I'm looking for an obscure ingredient and **touch wood** it's yet to let me down. Oh and if you've got a food allergy or are on some wacky diet these guys have got you covered. Not only is there an entire gluten-free section but they've got paleo this and coconut yoghurt that. It's seriously a one-stop foodie shop for all! Also impressive is their wine selection. It's not huge but they've got waaaaaay more interesting wineries than the big chains supermarkets and useful tasting notes too! Beware - it can get a bit manic in the weekends but get a coffee to sip on during your shop (they have a café on site) and take it real leisurely. It's the weekend after all...

Someone just asked me about my experience with their holiday hampers, so here it is. At the time…read morethere was nowhere to leave a review (still not, on their website). This time last year I ordered their hamper for a couple in Palmerston, they both had Covid. After a week of no delivery, I tried to email Farro, no response. Managed to find their ph no, no answer, left multiple messages, no response. After another week I emailed saying I was going to reverse the visa transaction, got a call back within hours. They said they had lost it, they would give me a partial credit for the trouble, and deliver. I didnt like the tone of the grumpy caller! Neither hamper or credit arrived. Dont give them your money, untrustworthy

This is the place I would pop in when I worked in Mount Eden last year to satisfy a strange habit…read moreof curious indulgence; I like sweets, and would buy packets of sugary treats in foreign languages that I did not understand and give them a go. Who knows what I was actually actually eating, it was fun. The packaging, (which there was generally way too much of) was always brightly coloured with images of happy quirky animals. So attractively kitsch. My curious taste buds sometimes were delighted and sometimes freaked out by the unfamiliar territory - what a rush. I have tried the same thing with tea, it didn't last quite as long, and was motivated by the cool tins they came in, more old school than the lolly packaging. I guess I have eclectic tastes for the quirky and the traditional.

Chances are if there is an Asian store or supermarket or hybrid of the two in Auckland I have been…read more I went to this one once and only once, it isn't the greatest. Bok Mart has mostly packaged groceries, no fresh produce (I was thinking they would sell bok choy for some reason) and a small frozen section. As well as food items there is a considerable amount of junk. I don't mean the food, the other stuff, weird personal items and homewares. There is a bit of self medicating that could be done through herbal remedies here too. I really wasn't impressed. The other Asian supermarkets are way better than this and stock a lot more. This one is almost a cross between a variety store and an Asian mini mart. Also nothing really had English translations, I like to know what I am eating. The store is disorganised and is a bit on the dirty side. Not really a place you want to buy food from. There are better ones in Newmarket like Tofu shop and Japan Mart.

What a little gem! This place is quietly tucked away amongst ample car yards and mechanics in an…read moreunusual little spot on Great North Road in New Lynn. I had actually walked past many times and had not really noticed it until taking the time to stop and check it out - then once in I was very impressed by what they had to offer and ended up walking away with a bag of items! The prices were so much better than I would have imagined for a speciality food store. I bought two boxes of unique looking chocolate coated wafers, one box of plunger grind coffee and two packets of veggie chippies (the latter being for us to try!) all just $12! What a bargain! I personally don't think the name does this place justice, also it is a bit misleading, as I entered with the idea that I was about to buy some aromatic spices and herbs to add to my pantry and really it seemed more like a gift shop, a lovely one though! Worthy enough to give four stars too in a review! There was also some great looking syrups, chocolate coated coffee beans, dry dips in a packet (looked intriguing and will I be back to try!), fudge, biscuits a range of things that some of you might be interested in, go check it out and keep this place trading!

Food was pretty good here but prices a little steep for what you get. We're from Hawaii, where…read moreAsian based food is the norm so our standards are high. I really enjoyed the salads/sides that came on each plate. It was nice to have some freshness with each bite. I really liked the Thai beef salad. We had been eating pretty heavy, so this was nice to have something with bright and light flavors. My Mom thought the duck had a mushy texture. Located around the corner from Giapo so good location to get dinner and dessert. Miann is also across the street but unfortunately I didn't get to try it.

Since its opening in 2015, Lucky Buddha still remains one of my favourite eateries in Auckland. It…read moreis situated on Fort Street, which is fast becoming a foodie mecca, with the likes of Ima Cuisine, Miann and Beirut and around the corner, my favourite ice creamery, Giapo. The first time I dined at Lucky Buddha, I didn't quite know what to expect, but after learning that the owners are Korean, the head chef is Filipino and that they are serving Asian fusion cuisine (namely Japanese, Korean, Thai and Filipino), I was really excited. I have since dined at Lucky Buddha four times, and each time has been a very memorable foodie experience. The food is fresh and flavourful, and the cocktail list and service is excellent. Below, I list my favourite dishes and drinks at Lucky Buddha. For food, I recommend the following: * Sriracha Pork Steamed Buns filled with tender pulled pork, fresh herbs and a cracker spicy peanut sauce. This is my favourite entree on the menu as it has that melt in your mouth wow factor. The bao comes in a pair, so I recommend sharing it with another dining companion, so you can share a few other entrees! * Wakame Salad with Cured Salmon served with creamy avocado, crispy nori, foam and puffed rice. This dish incorporates two of my favourite foods - salmon and avocado, so I knew it would be a winner. The puffed rice and crispy nori gives the dish great texture. * Soba Noodle Salad with Avocado and Teriyaki Chicken - this is the perfect lunch dish! It is another great combination (soba noodles, avocado and teriyaki chicken), is extremely filing (carb + protein x2) and will keep you going for the rest of the afternoon. My favourite part of this dish is the fried crunchy soba noodles on top! * Bibimbap with Korean mixed rice, seasonal vegetables, soy beef and gochujang. Bibimbap is a classic Korean dish and also one of my favourite meals, so I was super excited to try Lucky Buddha's version. I tried this dish only a few weeks' ago, and it is now my new favourite! I loved the presentation, with the brightly coloured veg, flavoursome beef and semi-raw egg. The fun part of Bibimbap is that you get to mix all the ingredients together! Just one sad note - no kimchi. For drinks, I highly recommend trying one of their cocktails. Their cocktail list changes frequently, some of which are only on the menu according to the season. I have so far enjoyed the Dark Stormy Asian cocktail with Mount Gay XO rum, ginger, herb bitters and citrus (a highlight the first time I dined at Lucky Buddha) and the Heavens Surprise cocktail with Herradura Plata tequila, watermelon, mint and elderflower - I just HAD to order this cocktail as it incorporated my favourite food and my favourite spirit! It was refreshing and delicious. Lucky Buddha also has a small wine and sake list and a range of Asian beers on offer, including a beer of the same name. For a non-alcoholic option, try one of their iced teas or house made sodas. If the above is not enough to tempt you, then another reason why you should dine at Lucky Buddha is because of their excellent service. Each time I have visited, staff are friendly and efficient, water glasses are always topped up and you don't have to wait long for your food. Overall, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Lucky Buddha. Thinking about it now, it definitely makes my top five list in Auckland, for its Asian Fusion menu (featuring Japanese, Thai, Filipino and Korean classics), refreshing cocktails and consistently good service. I highly recommend dining at Lucky Buddha the next time you're out!