New Zealand is officially home to one of the best fine-dining restaurants in the world, as The Grove received the optimal recognition.
Auckland restaurant The Grove, has been featured on Tripadvisor's list of Best Fine-Dining Restaurants in the World.
Owner Michael Dearth told Restaurant & Cafe Magazine that this recognition was a huge accomplishment.
“This has not only shone a light on our industry, but as well as our city and our country,” said Dearth.
The placement has special meaning to The Grove, as it continues to celebrate it’s 20th anniversary.
The Grove has been on the Best Fine-Dining Restaurant list for some time, having ranked 11th in 2023. Dearth said the restaurant has come a long way since it opened, but he still has fond memories of that exciting time in his career.
He said that placing in the top 10 on this list was also recognition from the customers, who were in control of voting.
The Grove is an example of what Dearth described as the ‘Kiwi Mentality’ that the country has fought far beyond its weight. This recognition has highlighted New Zealand cuisine on the world stage, something that Dearth is passionate about promoting.
“We have a fantastic foundation of amazing products from the ocean and from land. At The Grove, we use a range of local ingredients, and we love to pair that with the best New Zealand wine.”
The Grove has stood out due to its consistency to strive for the best. Dearth said although there have been some obstacles to overcome, there has always been a desire for The Grove to showcase what it can offer.
Dearth put part of its success down to the personal touch of service. He said it’s not uncommon for guests to be personally greeted and farewelled, and to be visited frequently by himself or other staff throughout the service.
Accessibility has become a main focus for Dearth, who was thrilled to learn nearby construction and area restrictions would soon be coming to an end. He said the summer resurgence was a priority in the future, and noted that the local cuisine market was only going to grow.
“I’ve always thought of Auckland as a teenager, which will one day be handsome. We just have to ride it out in the mean time.”
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