Rating: 4.9 ★ (370 ratings)
Enjoy bold, flavour-driven food, inspired by the diverse cuisines of the Mediterranean — from Southern Europe to North Africa and the Middle East.
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM | Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday: Closed | Saturday: 5:30 – 8:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
+64 6 222 7100 | https://restaurantari.co.nz/
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Comments
Service was excellent. Wait staff were attentive and friendly.
Now about the food - we had a set menu with entrées and mains. I chose the fish croquette and the beef pappardelle. The croquette was delicious, but the pasta really stood out for me. As an Italian, I really appreciate when pasta tastes authentic, and this one absolutely impressed me. Well done chefs.
Definitely recommended!
The fig tart, the octopus & the lamb, all delicious, all felt really special.
And the apple feijoa crumble to top it all up was to cry for more - a shame we live so far away…
Cheers, Miguel & Milena
We had an express lunch at Restaurant Ari and were in and out in under an hour… without ever feeling rushed. Perfect for a client meeting over great food and a glass of wine.
The fish crudo was next-level, vibrant, fresh and bursting with flavour, paired with warm, Ari flatbread that we could’ve happily ordered twice. Then came the showstopper: BEEF CHEEK RAGOUT with hand-rolled pasta. Rich, melt-in-your-mouth, beautifully balanced and the perfect portion size.
What really elevated our experience? Every dish was personally delivered and explained by the chef or front-of-house team. Their knowledge, passion and attention to detail turned a quick lunch into something memorable.
Incredible food. Seamless service. Right in the heart of Hastings. We’ll be back for dinner to explore the full menu but if you need exceptional food in under 60 minutes, this is your spot!
That said the restaurant is well worth the hunt. Our wee snacks were delightful palate ticklers. The gougères with porcini custard and the perfect tangy element of rhubarb were a hit. Of course, the glazed tuna with lime gel and nori crackers are not to be missed.
My hubby enjoyed the fish of the day with mussels and a cauliflower vichyssoise. He declared the dish delicious. I enjoyed the beautifully plated lamb with crumbed courgette and ratatouille. Ratatouille is a favourite of mine, and this did not disappoint.
Kayla our positive and engaged server was very knowledgeable and enhanced the whole experience. Thanks Kayla for your wine guidance as well.
Definitely worth the hunt to find the right location.