I recently had the pleasure of meeting Sonia Haumonté from Patisserie Vaniyé. Her boutique patisserie in Parnell, Auckland, is exquisite. The refined, modernist creations produced at Vaniye are displayed in serried ranks in an elegant glass cabinet. Like works of art, it is hard to choose a favourite, though they also make petit fours if you prefer more than one! Sonia was working on her new offerings for the festive season and had a photo shoot with some Rachel Carley Ceramics including large oval scalloped platters and sunray plates in golden syrup glaze. When I visited the boutique I had a beautiful grenada cake with coffee. I recommend a visit as soon as possible. In addition to marvellous patisserie, friends who live nearby applaud their baguettes as being without comparison.Buche de Noel “Grand Cru” (Dark chocolate mousse with layered chocolate almond sponge) by Patisserie Vaniyé

Fraicheur (Strawberry and pistachio tart) by Patisserie Vaniyé