Wang Wang Pancake (Dominion Road, Auckland, New Zealand)
Sometimes, it’s the hidden gems that surprise us the most. My wife stumbled upon a video online that led us to a culinary adventure down Dominion Road, guiding us to a modest little place that goes by the name Wang Wang Pancake. Let me tell you, it was a discovery that didn’t disappoint.
Dominion Road, with its plethora of dining options, has always been a go-to spot for foodies like us. Yet, Wang Wang Pancake might have remained undiscovered had it not been for that serendipitous video. Nestled within a cozy small area almost the same size or smaller than a one car garage, its unassuming exterior belies the treasures that await within.
Walking in, we were greeted by an older interior, one that carries a certain charm, reminding me of hidden food gems back in my hometown. Our server, while not fluent in English, navigated our communication effortlessly through the art of pointing at the menu. Tea was brought to the table to warm our spirits, setting the stage for a feast we wouldn’t soon forget.
With our curiosity piqued, we delved into the menu. Spring Pancakes – a delicate offering of 10 pieces (NZ$7.00) – stood out. These weren’t your ordinary pancakes; they were ultra-thin wraps, ready to be adorned with delectable fillings. We opted for the most popular choice – Shredded Pork in Peking Sauce (NZ$21.00). The Spring Onion Pancake (NZ$11.00) and Pork and Chives Dumpling (NZ$17.00) also found their way to our table.
As the dishes arrived, we marvelled at the spring pancakes’ thinness, seemingly crafted to perfection. Their gentle elasticity ensured they wouldn’t crumble under the weight of our culinary endeavours. These wraps could be paired with a range of dishes, but you also had the option to switch them out for rice. Among the crowd favourites was the Shredded Pork in Peking Sauce – a choice that resonated with our taste buds.
The food itself? Oh, it was a symphony of flavours. The experience was reminiscent of how Peking ducks are served – yet Wang Wang Pancake brought this concept to another level. Each bite offered a fresh perspective on Chinese cuisine, wrapping it in a pancake blanket, a delightful departure from the usual. I couldn’t help but be amazed at how these pancakes, often associated with roasted duck, could lend themselves to a whole new world of flavours.
While the ambiance was cozy, I must admit, the restaurant’s petite size can make it a bit stuffy, particularly when it’s crowded. But such minor inconveniences paled in comparison to the delectable offerings before us. The value for money was excellent, tempting us to return soon to explore more of the menu.
Wang Wang Pancake, a name that might not have initially caught my attention, turned out to be a treasure trove of flavours. Our journey along Dominion Road had led us to a culinary haven, reaffirming the magic of those unexpected dining discoveries. A word of advice – parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak hours, but the treasures that await inside are well worth it.
Wang Wang Pancake
Address: 704 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1041, New Zealand
Website: https://wang-wang-pancake.tuckerfox.co.nz/
Phone: +649 630 3916
Looks like a really delicious meal! Not that I eat pancakes, but that doesn’t stop me from appreciating them as long as they are good.
It’s awesome to see such a diverse array of pancakes represented! It’s hard to find much other than fluffy American breakfast pancakes out here. Plus, that crispy dumpling skirt is absolutely immaculate.
I’d go for the western-style pancakes with maple syrup…or our Malaysian roti canai, voted No. 1 bread in the world.