The New Zealand Comfort Food I Missed Most Is Hiding in Decatur
I spent a year living in New Zealand, and came back to Atlanta looking for the familiar and comforting tastes from the Southern Hemisphere — especially for the easy, local delicacy of meat pies. I found them at Heaps.
What to order
- The lamb and vegetable pie ($12) has a crispy crust stuffed with a good portion of New Zealand lamb, kūmara (the Māori word for sweet potato), and mint. Ask for extra mint chutney on the side.
- Come here from Friday to Sunday for the special fish and chips menu, offering crunchy, golden Atlantic Cod, a fried fish sandwich, curry fries, and tangy house remoulade.
- A staple in Kiwi bakeries, the hot-pink Lamington dessert ($5.50) is delicately flavored with vanilla sponge, mascarpone filling, raspberry jelly, and a coconut dusting.
Best for
Heaps is a reliable option for morning rugby watch parties alongside other passionate fans. Tuck into a breakfast pie, drink a flat white, and take in New Zealand’s most beloved sport. Just be sure to cheer for the All Blacks and not the other guys.
Insider tip
Stop by on New Zealand holidays, such as Waitangi Day, and try a Hāngī-inspired pie. Traditional Hāngī involves steaming meats and vegetables all day underground atop heated rocks; however, Jake and team make do by cooking meats low and slow in a commercial oven. No matter when you visit, add a side of mash and Marmite gravy to your pie order.
