On Takapuna’s main street Nanam is a little gem serving up some of the most imaginative Filipino food in Auckland.
Nanam is arguably one of the best Asian eateries in Auckland thanks to Jess Granada and her team of chefs that work magic with a well-priced selection of visionary tapas and mains.
We began with signature dish wagyu lemongrass sausage ($22), cleverly paired with coriander, atchara pickle, tortilla, chipotle, mayo, and peanuts. For something lighter, the fish ceviche ($18) served with coconut vinegar and cucumber was an audacious combination of freshness and flavour. The grilled eggplant salsa ($18) showed the same finesse with cherry tomatoes and a lemongrass dressing served on black rice crisp. Each tapa was characteristically different and a must for anyone keen to see Filipino food finally highlighted.
Choosing a main, consider fish of the day ($36), baked in a banana leaf with leek, courgette and tomato butter sauce. Or roasted organic chicken ($40) with tamarind, tomato salsa and green watercress puree. Then there’s crisp pork hock ($38) tossed in chorizo and basil sauce with spicy soy dip; beef bistek ($39) char grilled sirloin aged for 55 days served with pumpkin and caramelised shallot jus; or crispy roast pork belly roll ($36) with caramelised artichoke, apple sauce sarsa and shitake salad.
And don’t miss sides: jasmine rice ($4); kaut slaw salad with carrots, peanuts and sesame miso dressing ($12); crispy kumara cooked in spiced butter with coriander crème ($12); or sautéed greens of the day ($12). Dessert are moreish. Tiramisu ($18); chocolate cake, vanilla mousse, vanilla coffee ice cream, hazelnuts and raspberries, pannacotta ($18); mango and peach compote with sorbet; or handmade ice cream of the day ($14) with hazelnut crumble.
And the verdict? Nanam’s approach to Asian food is strong, reinforced by quality cooking that manages to effortlessly engage all the senses. Cheery and efficient service and a menu-driven wine list with plenty of drops by the glass completes the package. Make the pilgrimage you won’t be disappointed.
RATING
Menu: 8 | Cuisine: 9.5 | Wine list: 8
Service: 9 | Décor: 8 | Value for Money: 9.5
NANAM
178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna
09 488 9976
Dinner Tuesday-Saturday | Lunch Thursday-Saturday
