It was Mothers' Day and my husband and I wanted to celebrate memories of our mothers. Demand for lunch was so great that every restaurant cover in Blenheim was reserved. Rather than turn customers away, Herzog opened its gourmet restaurant (usually dinner only) serving the same menu as in their fully-booked Bistro.
How lucky were we? Fine-dining at Herzog is always a pleasurable experience. The restaurant is renowned for its award-winning food (the chefs are imported from Europe for the season) and for their impeccable service. I liken it to a Michelin 3-star.
But back to lunch. A glass of Cuvée Sparkling Rose with an Assiette of Aoraki Salmon with Beetroot & Avocado followed by Premium Canterbury Lamb Shortloin with Tarragon Pomme Anna and Squash & Granny Smith Cassoulet, served with Spirit of Marlborough Merlot Cabernet. The sweet ending — a Duet of White Chocolate with Feijoa Sorbet.
Cost: $198 for two.
Bistro open:
Lunch: Wednesday-Sun, 12pm to 3pm.
Dinner: Wednesday-Saturday, 6pm-late (last orders at 8pm).
Fine-dining restaurant: mid-October to mid-May: Tuesday-Sunday, from 6pm for evening dining;
mid-December to end of March: 7 days, from 6pm for evening dining.
Private lunchtime functions available for groups of 15+ people.