Minos – a tasty little slice of the Med

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With its red and white chequered tablecloths and tantalising garlic-buttery pizza aroma in the air, Minos is Howick’s own little slice of the traditional Mediterranean Italian family restaurant.

And Dean Martin’s Italian-styled vocal is in the ear, singing That’s Amore – when the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie – when the first delicious Minos culinary treat arrives at our table of five, a Times team dinner “meeting”, delicious crispy garlic bread-pizza that just melts in the mouth and awakens the senses.

With vino tinto and beer, come to think of it any beverage, Italian food is always a perfect complement, and once the drinks arrive, out comes a traditional juicy shrimp cocktail with ample tangy sauce, and a just-right Hawaiian pizza.

Another scrumptious pizza appears and it’s the Proscuitto, with Napoletana sauce, mozzarella and layers of tasty, shaved prosciutto cured meat lying on top.

That proves popular, as does the following Quattro Stagioni, with a light and crispy gluten-free pizza base, and Napoletana sauce, ham, mushrooms, Italian salami, prawns, and mozzarella.

Minos’ staff are at ease enjoying their work, delivering relaxed, attentive and friendly service.

The antipasto platter is generous and varied in its servings and selections, while the Vegetarian Lasagne is incredibly good, too, so much rich taste combining soft strips of fresh pasta, potato, spinach, eggplant, Napoletana sauce, béchamel, and parmigiano.

“We use only the freshest New Zealand produce and finest Italian meats,” say the Minos staff.

“We also import some of the finest Mediterranean meats for our authentic tasting dishes.

“All of our pizzas have Minos special recipe tomato sauce and unique eight cheese blend that’ll have you coming back for more.”

Minos has a relaxed and welcoming Mediterranean Italian charm, especially on a warm evening when the doors and windows are open, and the courtyard outside can be enjoyed alfresco.

The restaurant is also known for creating a party atmosphere in the courtyard and DJs have been entertaining in that space during the summer.

“Our cosy restaurant is the perfect place for your special occasion – birthdays and anniversaries or just a great place to bring the kids for a pizza.

“We also offer a takeaway menu so you can order from the comfort of your home and pick it up when it’s ready.”