Trading Places

The Trading Post has lost “French Bistro” from its name, but gained “Osteria Italiana” — the eatery now owned by Italian chef Simone Saglia and his Waikato-born wife, Kylie. Simone has worked in Michelin-starred eateries in Italy and the UK, and top Melbourne joints too. Dinner is degustation only, currently with braised osso buco with polenta, and a chocolate and hazelnut lava cake. It’s à la carte by day, with casual offerings (eggs or a BLAT) as well as the makings of a lazy lunch with cured duck breast, truffle risotto (with Te Puke truffles), lasagne and cannelloni. Simone hails from Piedmont, an area famous for wines such as Barolo and Nebbiolo, so expect great Italian vino.

1 Hall Rd, Paengaroa (10 minutes from Te Puke) thetradingpost.nz thetradingpostnz