Cellar 495: A wine lover’s haven with gas-powered flavour

Nestled in the heart of Hastings, Cellar 495 offers a unique dining experience where exceptional wines meet innovative, flavour-filled dishes.

Helmed by Master of Wine Michael Henley, Cellar 495 prides itself on being more than just your standard restaurant – it's a journey through some of the finest wines from around the globe, carefully matched with elegant dishes designed to elevate every sip.

Michael’s approach is all about discovery and pleasure. His hand-selected wine list is known for its ability to surprise and delight, offering patrons a curated experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Recently awarded one hat from the Cuisine magazine Good Food Awards and the Outstanding Chef award at the local hospitality awards, Cellar 495’s Chef Carlita Campell works her magic out of a compact space to create fresh and delicious dishes.“Carlita comes up with crazy dishes that I’d never think would go with my wines,” says Michael, “but somehow they always work. She helps us push our boundaries.”

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Trust the chef, trust the wine

Cellar 495’s signature ‘Trust the Chef’ and ‘Trust the MW’ (Master of Wine) menus are all about handing the reins over to the experts. Diners can relax while the kitchen creates dishes that pair perfectly with carefully selected wines. Popular New Zealand varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rosé often make an appearance, offering a range of flavours to match the innovative dishes from the kitchen.

The secret ingredient

Behind the scenes, gas plays a crucial role in the kitchen at Cellar 495. The team relies on gas for its precise control and quick response times.

Cooking with gas gives the flexibility to get dishes just right. It heats up quickly, which is key for dishes that need to be seared or sautéd, and the even distribution of heat ensures everything is cooked to perfection.

The future of gas