Vittoria Coffee customers were among the decorated restaurants at last night's Cuisine Good Food Guide Awards in New Zealand. Presented at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, with an audience of over 400 industry guests, the annual awards celebrate the world-class dining scene in New Zealand.

Of seven restaurants  that were accorded the ultimate three-hat tribute, two were Vittoria Coffee customers: Merediths and The Grove. In addition, Baduzzi, Cassia and Victoria Street Bistro all received two hats, while Palate received one. 

Three hats denote a perfect score, and are reserved for those establishments that deliver the consummate restaurant experience. CEO Les Schirato presented Restaurant of the Year with Cuisine Magazine Editor Kelli Brett to The French Cafe and the Chef of the Year accolade to Sid Sahrawat, the chef known for his refined and ravishing degustation menus at Sidart. At Cassia, Sahrawat's second venture, modern Indian is at the fore.

"New Zealand Chefs let their food do the talking, they are unique" said Vittoria Food and Beverage CEO, Les Schirato at the awards. Vittoria is also honoured to be associated with culinary whizzes Ben Bayly (of The Grove, Baduzzi and My Kitchen Rules in New Zealand) and Michael Meredith (of Merediths). As some of the country's most discerning chefs, they demand products of exceptional provenance, which is reflected in their choice to serve our coffee.

2016 marks the fifth consecutive year of Vittoria's involvement in the awards. As befitting our presenting partner status, Vittoria Coffee inspired menu items were the flavour of the evening. Guests sipped on Vittoria-inspired rum cocktails throughout the evening, and savoured a spectacular experience with a Vittoria-infused chocolate mousse at the end. Our Oro blend was also served as a pre or post evening coffee from the main bar which was styled with a floral theme.

Congratulations to the award winning restaurants which choose to serve Vittoria Coffee:

Chef of the Year: Sid Sahrawat, Sidart & Cassia

Three Hats:
Merediths
The Grove

Two Hats:
Baduzzi
Cassia
Victoria Street Bistro

One Hat:
Palate

For the full list of winners, click here