An occasional column by Rodger on dining in Raglan
I always liked to go to the old Marlin restaurant. The location at the wharf end of Wallis Street is one of the best in Raglan for enjoying the harbour while you are dining. We had heard good reports on the relaunched Wharf Kitchen & Bar that replaced the Marlin. After a small fire in 2015, the building was fitted out with a new kitchen and completely redecorated with a light bright feel inside.
On arrival we were greeted and offered a choice of tables. The menus were brought promptly along with some water. There was a good range of choices of fish, seafood, poultry and meat dishes. You can pick from a selection of mains plus side dishes or a varieties of ‘plates’, which are complete meals. Service was NZ style friendly service.
For the main course I picked the scallops with potato croquettes and a rocket salad. Virginia ordered the ‘cap on lamb rump’ with baked potato. The wait for the meals was acceptable. They were both presented well and were a pleasure to eat. We gave the meals Eight out of Ten. We each had a glass of Pinot Gris with the meal.
For dessert there was a special of white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake. This was a light uncooked cheesecake with a touch of coconut. I’d certainly order it again. Virginia had the lemon and rhubarb dessert. We gave these Eight out of out of Ten.
All up the mains, desserts and wines came to $118.
Overall on Value for Money I gave Wharf Kitchen & Bar a Seven out of Ten for a very good meal and service. Certainly a restaurant I will recommend to visitors in future and one I’ll be returning to.
The restaurant was close to full soon after we arrived. It would be best to book on Friday and Saturday nights during Raglan’s December to April peak visitor season.
The Wharf Kitchen & Bar – At the wharf end of Wallis Street where Rose Street goes off to the right. (43 Rose Street, Raglan 3225). Phone 07 825 0010. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am