Fleurs Place .............

The downward trip to Dunedin was broken by a stop at Moeraki for lunch at Fleurs Place. While some of our number had dined there before it was my first visit to this eclectic eating place. With the rain continuing to fall the outside seating area was empty which was a disappointment as a pair of dolphins were frolicking in the bay in and around the moored boats.

Entering the "wooden shed" we were transported into a bustling metropolitan cafe scene albeit furnished by older style tables and chairs - no chrome in site/sight!! Notwithstanding it was 1.00pm on a Friday afternoon the cafe was full to overflowing. We were assured that a table for 5 would be available in about 20 minutes and in the interim we were made welcome at the bar where there was an interesting selection 0f beers local/imported , bottled/on tap as well as an extensive wine list. I chose a Central Otago Sav Blanc which had a fruitier taste than those I would normally consume but not altogether unpleasant.

Nearer to 30 minutes later we were seated and our orders taken - I was impressed by the palm held device that was used to record the order. Four of the group went for the Blue Cod which came with a choice of four sauces while I requested a mussel dish that comprised a herb cream and white wine sauce. I was confronted with an enormous bowl over flowing with mussels and accompanied by a finger bowl and several hand towels (all were used!!). The old fashioned cutlery and china also provided another talking point.

There was some doubt that that I would finish the repast but for me that was never a consideration. The bottom of the bowl contained a healthy serving of sauce which I unashamedly scoped up with a half shell. It was absolutely delicious!! Good reports were also received from the cod eaters and a later group of golfers indulged in the seafood chowder about which they raved. The second group were also fortunate in being seated upstairs by a window that gave a picture perfect aspect of the bay.

Overall I unreservedly recommend stopping and enjoying the experience of dining at Fleurs. The many good reviews and personal referalls I had were well justified. I intend to return as soon as I possibly can. While it may well be at the top end of the price range I can say it is worth both the expense and the travel.