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Dunedin's Ironic Cafe has been judged New Zealand's finest, beating more than 1100 entrants
Cafe of the Year head judge Kerry Tyack said the Anzac Ave cafe, founded by owners Sue Moller and Steve Wilson in 2007, was ''a truly delightful and well managed cafe propelled into the winner's circle by its loyal customers''.
''Ironic has it all; a busy, upbeat atmosphere, great staff ably led by the owner determined to make your visit enjoyable, an extensive selection of cabinet food to tempt you, as well as superb coffee,'' Mr Tyack said.
Mr Wilson said winning the title ''absolutely means the world to us''.
He thanked the whole team for getting in behind its entry.
''It wasn't just Sue and I - it was all our staff.
''We know we have got very good staff, but over the last two months when the judging has been on they have really stepped up,'' he said.
Winning was more than just about creating a dish, with ''mystery judges'' looking at the ''whole package''.
As well as the kudos of running New Zealand's best cafe, they won a Renault Clio R.
S. 200 worth more than $30,000.
Restaurant Association of New Zealand chief executive Marisa Bidois said the competition was tough this year, with a record number of entries.
''The cafe culture is such an important part of our ethos here in New Zealand and it's wonderful to see such a diverse representation in the finalists.''
More than 39,000 people voted for the 1123 eateries that entered the contest, now in its third year.
Entrants had to create a dish to feature on their menus comprising at least one of a specified range of Wattie's and Meadow Fresh products.
