Hikurangi Home Cookery Gains National Spotlight After Al brown’s Glowing Review
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Whangārei, New Zealand – A local bakery, Hikurangi Home cookery, is experiencing a surge in popularity after receiving high praise from renowned New Zealand chef Al Brown.Brown’s recent visit and eager review of their traditional baked goods have put the small-town establishment on the map.
A chef’s Seal of Approval
Chef Al brown sampled a variety of items during his visit, beginning with a pie he rated an remarkable 8.5 out of 10. He explained his reasoning, stating, When you give anyone a 10 there’s only one place they can go and that’s down.
Brown continued his tasting journey with a unique raspberry and cream bun combination, which he described as astounding
and awarded a score of nine-and-a-half out of ten.
The positive feedback resonated deeply with Lenore Jellick, manager of Hikurangi Home Cookery. Jellick became emotional when discussing the impact of Brown’s review, highlighting the bakery’s commitment to preserving classic Kiwi baking traditions.
Did you Know? The popularity of pies in New Zealand is deeply rooted in its history, with variations reflecting the country’s diverse cultural influences.
A family-Run Tradition
Hikurangi Home Cookery is a family-operated business, with a shared passion for creating authentic, comforting baked goods. The bakery offers a wide array of classic treats, including steak and kidney pies, potato-topped pies, mince pies, cakes, quiches, doughnuts, and lamingtons.
Jellick noted that customers often travel from surrounding areas to enjoy their favorite items,demonstrating the bakery’s strong local following. The bakery also operates another location in Tikipunga, further solidifying its presence in the region.
key offerings at Hikurangi Home Cookery
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Steak and Kidney Pie | A traditional savory pie with a rich filling. |
| Potato Top Pie | A hearty pie topped with mashed potatoes. |
| Mince Pie | A classic pie filled with seasoned minced meat. |
| Raspberry Bun & Cream Bun | A combined pastry treat praised by Al Brown. |
The bakery’s success, according to Jellick, lies in its dedication to keeping the old school classics on the shelves.
This approach has clearly resonated with both locals and visiting culinary experts like Brown.
Pro Tip: Supporting local bakeries like Hikurangi Home Cookery helps preserve traditional culinary skills and contributes to the vibrancy of the community.
Brown isn’t the only celebrity to have visited Hikurangi Home Cookery. Psychic Kelvin Cruickshank and broadcaster Duncan Garner have also enjoyed treats at the bakery, further adding to its growing reputation.
What makes a bakery truly special in your opinion? And how significant is it to support local businesses in your community?
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern advocate, dedicating her reporting to issues impacting Northlanders and beyond.
The Enduring Appeal of Traditional Bakeries
The success of hikurangi home Cookery reflects a broader trend of consumers seeking out authentic, locally-made products. In an era of mass production, the charm and quality of traditional bakeries offer a comforting choice. Research suggests that consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for products that are perceived as being higher quality and supporting local economies (National Library of Medicine). This demand is driving a resurgence in artisanal baking and a renewed thankfulness for classic recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hikurangi home Cookery
- What is Hikurangi Home Cookery known for? It’s renowned for its classic Kiwi pies and traditional baked goods.
- Who gave Hikurangi Home Cookery a glowing review? celebrity chef al Brown praised their pies and pastries.
- Where is Hikurangi Home Cookery located? It’s located in Whangārei, New Zealand, with another branch in Tikipunga.
- What types of pies does Hikurangi Home Cookery offer? They offer steak and kidney, potato top, and mince pies, among others.
- Is Hikurangi Home Cookery a family-run business? Yes, it is a family-operated bakery with a passion for traditional baking.
“When you get to the three stars level, it’s about a distinct personality and level of technical expertise that makes it one of the best restaurants in the world.”
—Anonymous Michelin Guide Chief Inspector of North America
Across the United States, only 14 three-Michelin-starred restaurants currently exist, showcasing the rarity and significance of this achievement; this reflects a commitment to food quality and culinary technique. (Michelin Guide, 2024)
Celebrating Chef **Ki Kim**
**Ki Kim**, chef of Little Tokyo’s Restaurant Ki, was also acknowledged, winning the Michelin Young Chef Award. Restaurant Ki earned a single star, which represents “high-quality cooking, worth a stop.” **Kim** had overcome mental health challenges during the closure of his first restaurant, Kinn, before returning with a modern Korean tasting menu.
More Awards in the California Guide
The 2025 guide also recognized numerous restaurants across California. The “bib gourmand” awards, highlighting “good food at a moderate price,” were given to 123 eateries. Green stars were awarded to restaurants practicing sustainable methods.
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Other Los Angeles area restaurants retained their two-star ratings from 2024, including **Hayato**, **Mélisse** and **Vespertine**. Several restaurants kept their one-star status from the previous year. The Michelin Guide’s announcement underscores Los Angeles’ rising influence in the culinary arena and the dedication of its chefs.
