EM>BAR>GO

EM>BAR>GO is a bustling euro-trendy cafe by day and an intimate, fine dining restaurant by night, their centrally located venue is one of Hamilton's premier eating establishments.

There is an international quality about EM>BAR>GO that gives it an edge. This stems from Austria born Herbert Hickel, who trained as a Chef in Europe and worked in Sydney for 10 years. Herbert eventually settled in Hamilton where both he and his wife Elaine opened EM>BAR>GO in the year 2000.

The name EM>BAR>GO is derived from the journalistic heritage of the building, this popular Hamilton restaurant being located in the same structure that proudly housed The New Zealand Herald for 25 years. In journalistic speak, if a story is considered too controversial, unsubstantiated or insupportable, it is prohibitively stamped with the word "embargo" and will not go to print. This newspaper legacy is the inspiration behind the artistic use of newsprint on the interior walls.

The dichotomous personality of EM>BAR>GO results from a desire to accommodate both the casual day diner, as well as those wishing to enjoy a candle lit, white linen affair in the evenings. With this is mind, the Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch menu offers a wide selection of delicious, yet quick to prepare options, the emphasis being on the quality and efficiency so desired by busy daytime clientele. The dinner experience however, is much more intricate. The evening menu blends a classical French style with Pacific Rim influences and the high standard of proficient service is reputedly world-class.

EM>BAR>GO is famous for its brunches, providing an especially suitable venue for a leisurely Sunday morning treat with the family. Children are able to safely entertain themselves in Garden Place after brekkie, affording Mum and Dad the time to finish either a traditional favourite, or perhaps one of the more scrumptious innovations on the menu.

EM>BAR>GO is also gaining a reputation for its fantastic monthly Food and Wine Lovers evenings. Five courses of culinary delight are expertly crafted to compliment select wines from a featured Winery. A representative from the Winery will introduce each of the wines at the commencement of each course, offering commentary on points of interest and responding to questions. These evenings really give Herbert and his team the opportunity to demonstrate their culinary expertise and entrepreneurial flair, and consequently are often booked out well in advance, so get in early.

EM>BAR>GO is fully licensed and offers an extremely well appointed wine list. Hours:  Open 5 days, from 11.30am Tuesday to Friday and from 10.00am Saturday. The Dinner menu is available Tuesday to Saturday from 5.00pm. Closed Sundays, Mondays and Public Holidays.