More Than a Recommendation

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I was excited to dine at Koji in Wellington as their Pan-Asian menu promised to put all kinds of bold, colorful taste in front of me. And while Koji more than made good on that promise – its Miso Dengaku Eggplant still taunts me from across the Pacific – it was a chance and random encounter there, that made my meal one I will not soon forget.

In between inspired courses and wine pairings, I chatted with Koji’s restaurant manager, a young enthusiastic foodie who would come to deposit two perspectives and one unknowing nudge in front of me. 

First, unsolicited validation of my theory that part of the tax of visiting a place as beautiful as New Zealand is wading through all the staunch and charged opinion.  And second, sensing I too was a fellow, curious foodie, potent justification for why two restaurants must be added to my last day’s agenda in Wellington and my one night out’s game plan in Christchurch.  

In the middle of all the “do this and see that” New Zealand discourse, I can’t say why this specific stranger’s recommendations broke through.  But they did.  I reset my Sunday plans.  I took dinner my final night in Wellington at Graze Wine Bar’s chef counter and I slotted drinks and a couple small plates in at Londo’s counter before my existing dinner reservation at Gatherings.  

His recos were simply exceptional. But there was something else elevating my experience at these cozy little gems.  I was mesmerized and overcome by the magic of being in such close proximity to everyday people living and loving their purpose.   

My collision with the young manager, wasn’t just an exchange of taste between two kindred spirits.  It was evidence that if we put our faith in the transformative power of travel to move us – to really move us to where we’re meant to be – life will find a way to get us there.  And, Taste as it always has will lead the way.