Piccolo

If you've recently strolled the Esplanade in Dunedin's charming St Clair, you've probably spotted the gem that is Piccolo. A wine bar and bottle store dual treat, it's the little brother to neighbouring and aptly named Esplanade, and was born out of the need for a pre- or post-dinner spot to sip and relax.

Out front, the eye-catching earth-red brick, striped canvas awnings and popping metal chairs immediately signal character and flavour, but what's inside trumps even the most tasteful imagination. More old European trattoria than polished wine bar, Piccolo deals in copper mushroom lamps, wavy benchtops, chocolate marble tabletops and a checkerboard terrazzo floor. A burgundy banquette lounges beneath an eclectic wall of vintage posters, plates and curios. Part Picasso, part Picasso's New York City loft. How could one possibly sum it all up in a single word? Cool feels like an understatement; perfect is too precise. What it really is, is Piccolo.

At its heart, this cosy spot by the sea is for all walks to enjoy with a natural wine or cracking cocktail in hand. Be it a quick glass on the way home or a long lazy aperitivo, whether you're fresh off the worksite or have had date night in the calendar for months, all are welcome.

The food is small, shareable and intended to be passed around the table: burrata scattered with capers and herbs, meatballs in rich tomato sauce, blistered focaccia and pizzette. The fact it doubles as a bottle store is a rarity in Dunedin, and the translucent pinks and peaches of hand-priced Italian and New Zealand labels practically match the decor.

Next door, Florentine-inspired gelato spot Sorella (Italian for sister) completes the family on this sun-and-salt-soaked corner. Like its siblings, Piccolo balances elegance with approachability, proving good things come in small, well-stocked packages.