Esfiha & Co

Tucked into Remuera, Esfiha and Co brings Middle Eastern recipes to the table with a lively Brazilian kick, blending tradition and verve in equal measure. It is all about authentic flavours and well-judged spice, reimagined with a cosmopolitan ease that suits Auckland’s most curious appetites.

The heart of the offering is the esfiha: feather-light flatbreads crowned with cheeses, herbs and fresh cream, or piled with warmly spiced beef, onion and tomatoes. Around them orbit sharing plates that travel from grill to raw with confidence, from mini kofta to the silky depth of kibbeh nayeh, a beef tartare lifted by bulgur and spice. For those after something heartier, Beirut sandwiches wrap eye fillet or chicken breast with cheese, lettuce and tomatoes in soft pita for a satisfying handheld feast.

Sides keep things classic and comforting — crisp-shelled kibbeh and chickpea-studded falafel — while dessert takes a playful turn with chocolate sfihas and their Nutella cousins. To sip, there is an easygoing line-up from a Mint and Cucumber Gin Cooler to a mojito, alongside juices and soft drinks to keep the pace leisurely.

Esfiha and Co offers an easy rhythm of share, savour and linger — a taste of tradition with a bright twist. Make a plan, bring good company, and let the flatbreads lead the way.