Bistro Saine — Restaurant in Waitematā

This is how dining out should be! We attended Bistro Saine last night and were to have the 4 course set menu that was included with our hotel stay. The restaurant itself is stunning, giving warm, intimate vibes despite being really busy.

We were shown to a table quickly that was already laid out for us, our server explained how the menu worked and drinks were quick to appear.

The food was simple but very tasty with each part of each dish done exactly how it should be. This is by far the nicest meal we have had in NZ in recent memory.

The standout element to our meal was the pacing. Myself and my partner love eating out and love each other's company. It was incredible to be able to sit, talk, eat at a slow pace, enjoy every bite and take time between each course to savor what we had just eaten and rest and refresh before the next plate.

This type of dining experience is so rare outside of Europe. All up our meal took exactly 2 hours (which is what we were booked for) and neither of us felt full or over done until the last drop of wine was drunk and the last bite eaten. The front of house staff were incredibly good at their job with us never wanting for anything.

I didn't take many photos because once I tried the Parfait I put my phone down and didnt pick...

Bistro saine is handsdown one of my favourite places to dine. I absolutely love everything about the food, the wine selection, the service, the atmosphere. Everything just flows so beautifully and there’s a real Balance in how the whole team works together. You can tell they all know their stuff

I haven’t met their chefs ( I usually make an effort to have a peak of who works the kitchen ) but their food speaks for itself. It feels authentic, comforting and full of care. My partner swears by the burgers ( and I have to admit the fries are probably the best I’ve ever had in my life).

Special mention has to go to Pierre, who makes every visit memorable. His knowledge of wine is incredible. He takes the time to find out what you like and always nails it with his recommendations. He truly goes above and beyond which makes dining here feel so personal and special

Bistro saine is like a little French gem and I honestly can’t...

Fantastic to see a French bistro in Auckland, with a non-pretentious menu and interesting wine list with international wines and beers. The wait staff were efficient, attentive and knowledgeable. Downside was the kitchen service, it was very slow, several tables twiddling their thumbs waiting for entrees and mains. However being only open for a few months hopefully its a kink they'll iron out. We had the pork croquette - quite dry, would've liked the inside to be softer and ragu-y, wakame ketchup was tasty would've like more of it! Chicken liver parfait was good, could be a little punchier in flavour. Market fish was Monkfish and it was absolutely delicious with the bouillabaisse sauce and fennel, fish was cooked to perfection. Also refreshing it was something other than snapper. Crème caramel was delicious and unique. All in all a very nice restaurant, we look forward to coming back and trying...