new and approved

The naranja raicilla cocktail, Carlos Delgado Rodriguez behind the bar, and the cactus and chicken gringa tacos (Photos: Supplied, Kathryn Chung; design The Spinoff)

New and approved: Xolo, Christchurch

The chefs returned from a research trip to Mexico feeling inspired, and a bunch of exciting new dishes have made it onto the menu.

By Kathryn Chung | 20th July, 2026

Octo’s exterior, the must-order chicken satay, and the bar (Photos: Supplied)

New and approved: Octo, Wellington

With a pleasingly lived-in feel, this new neighbourhood bar is the perfect spot to settle in for skewers, cocktails and tunes.

By Jean Teng | 7th July, 2026

Den Ramen, cucumber and buckwheat miso, and shio ramen

New and approved: Den Ramen, Auckland

Just off Karangahape Road, this cosy, cave-like slip of a room is devoted to slurping ramen.

By Charlotte Muru-Lanning | 23rd June, 2026

Contributing writer

New Dunedin cafe Aster (photos: Aster Instagram / Tara Ward)

New and Approved: Aster, Dunedin

Dunedin’s newest cafe is a great place to watch the world go by.

By Tara Ward | 11th June, 2026

Glou Glou on Allen Street (Photos: Supplied)

New and approved: Glou Glou, Wellington

First up in our new series highlighting fresh hospo offerings: a city cafe that now morphs into a wine bar at night.

By Jean Teng | 2nd June, 2026