Nanny's Eatery

Amongst the hustle and bustle of Kingsland, a new eatery specialising in dark rum and spicy fare is bringing some heat to one of the city's most sought-after suburbs.

Situated in the New North Road building that previously housed Kage and before that Shaky Isles, Nanny's is the new offering from JP and Ange Clarke, offering authentic and aromatic Jamaican and Mexican fare.

Originally due to open on August 17 last year (does that date sound familiar?), the nationwide level 4 lockdown meant the owners were forced to postpone their opening by several months before pivoting to a takeaway-only option in late-November. But they're now open to the public, with pumping music and hungry Aucklanders already filling the large and inviting space.

From Kingston to Kingsland, owner and head chef JP was born in Jamaica and says the restaurant brings the "deep-rooted soul food flavour" learned from his GramMa's kitchen. Think authentic jerk chicken ($23), pork belly ($23), Ital coconut curry ($20) and traditional Jamaican rice 'n' peas ($5).

That's combined with a little Mexican flare in the way of spicy jalapeño poppers ($15) and waffle fries nachos ($23), and sides that don't fit in either box like an indulgent five-cheese mac and cheese ($5). Don't fear vegans and vegetarians, you're also catered to: we'd recommend the specialty vegan burger topped with caramelised onions, vegan aioli, vegan mozzarella, and jalapeño ($23).

If you consider yourself something of a spice connoisseur, this is the place to put yourself to the test. Nanny's dishes come in a variety of spice levels, from "Not Spicy", to "Spicy", "Super Spicy" and finally, "Insanely HOT" — not for the faint of heart, we'd guess, judging by the name.

But it's the beverage menu bound to draw many punters through its doors. The bar stocks one of the largest selections of Jamaican rum in Auckland, including a molasses-distilled Blackspot rum. Maybe you want to down your booze in cocktail form — in that case sample The Knickerbocker ($16), made with 1731 Fine & Rare Central American rum, raspberry, lime, and dry curacao.

Situated in the heart of Kingsland and only 400 metres from Eden Park, this is the perfect spot to fill hungry bellies before a big game, or perhaps groove the evening away thanks to the live DJs. And good news for those with four-legged friends: it's a dog-friendly restaurant. In fact, let JP or Ange know that you've bought your dog along and they'll whip them up something special. Now that's hospitality.