Tucked away in the block of shops near St Thomas’ School, Forbes Gourmet double as masters of homely meals and are responsible for some of the best pies I have experienced in the Greater Auckland region. My favourites include the Smoked Fish, Chicken, Bacon and Leek, and your traditional Mince and Cheese. The quiches are wonderful, as are the chicken sandwiches — with those unforgettable crunchy bits. Parking is always super easy, maybe just be weary of school hours. The service matches the food, always with the friendliness of a neighbour, as well as a big smile. The best thing about the meals, for example, the pies, is that they can be taken home to be heated yourself, not ideal if in a rush, but perfect to masquerade the food as your own to those judgemental rellies.