Fush 'n' chups

Restaurants have been asked to dish up their own version of the classic Kiwi "fush 'n' chups".

Diners who vote could win a copy of Al Brown's Go Fish, although we've already picked our winner: Riccarton House Bistro.

Chargrilled tuna steak and chilli veggie crisps at the Riccarton House Bistro

A fat, juicy tuna steak perched on top of a wedge of ciabatta had us eyeing the plate with greedy stares. The fish was topped with a refreshing salsa verde and sat nestled on a bed of crunchy fennel, while the side of wafer-thin chilli crisps were delicious dunked in aioli. A fish 'n' chip feast without the health risk, this decadent dish would please even the pickiest of punters. Price: $12.50

Parmesan and herb-crusted hapuka with handcut fries at Clink

A thick piece of hapuka was the star of this dish, but its co-stars were just as captivating. Whether it was the flavoursome Clink tartare sauce enriched with capers, the tempura-battered twin prawns, or the zingy basil and tomato jelly, each component was a delight. The small pile of handcut fries did not dominate, making for a very pleasant change. Definitely worth the journey east. Price: $30

Creole-style Monkfish Acras at She ChocolatThis flavoursome dish featured ultra-tender monkfish marinated in spring onions and a dash of Scotch bonnet chillies. Just before being fried, this fish dived into a light Creole-spiced batter. There was a spread of roast capsicum mayo for dipping and, best of all, super-tangy coriander-pickled cucumber strips and grilled lime cheeks that complemented the fish perfectly. Polenta-coated yellow kumara fries were a funky chip alternative for a dish served with a glorious view. Price: $28.50

Battered fish 'n' chip pizza at Winnie Bagoes

Dust off your stretchy pants, as this dish is too big for two, but too good to leave any behind. Hearty chunks of fresh fish, lightly beer-battered, were stacked on a crispy pizza base smothered with a tasty gourmet tomato sauce and laden with shoestring fries and a smattering of melted cheese. A delicious take on heart-attack food. For health nuts, a fresh rocket salad was also on the pile, which was served with homemade tartare sauce and a tangy manuka-infused aioli. Price: $33