Kumara Crème Brûlée paired with Marsden Estate Late Harvest Muscat

Charlottes Kitchen, Paihia

This kumara crème brûlée is a celebration of Northland’s finest ingredients and culinary creativity. At its heart is the iconic Kaipara-grown Dargaville kūmara, renowned for its natural sweetness and depth of flavour, which forms the foundation of this silky, golden custard. The dish is enriched with Bella Vacca cream, produced just west of Kawakawa, where a dedicated team cares for their own herd of Jersey cows, delivering fresh, premium milk that adds a luxurious richness. Each element is carefully chosen to reflect Northland’s unique terroir, bringing together ingredients grown in its fertile soils and nurtured by local artisans.

Paired with Marsden Estate Late Harvest Muscat, the dessert’s natural earthiness and creamy sweetness are elevated by the wine’s floral aromatics and luscious, honeyed finish. Together, they create a pairing that captures the warmth, abundance, and vibrancy of the region.

The inspiration behind this dish is a culinary conversation an intersection of traditions and cultures. It takes a technique rooted in one tradition and elevates it with an ingredient that represents another, creating something entirely unique to Northland. This thoughtful fusion is not about reinventing for novelty, but about respect showcasing the best of both worlds while telling the story of place and heritage through food.

A culinary conversation: represents the meeting of two cultures, French & Kiwi. It takes a classic technique from one tradition and elevates an ingredient from the other, creating something new and uniquely Northland. It’s respectful fusion that acknowledges both histories.

It is a dish that honours local growers, celebrates innovation, and invites diners to experience the region’s bounty in a refined yet authentic way.

DETAILS:
Dates: 01st – 31st October
Time: 12pm – 3pm (Lunch) & 5pm to late (Dinner)
Cost: $20 (For the pairing)

BOOKINGS:
Phone: 09 402 8296
Email: hello@charlotteskitchen.co.nz

Website: Charlottes Kitchen

VENUE:
Charlottes Kitchen
69 Marsden Rd, Paihia, Bay of Islands