Hello Beasty's moreish prawn & crab toast

Iconic Auckland Eats have unveiled their 2024 list, rounding up 100 of the region’s most delicious dishes

The 2024 Iconic Auckland Eats list, featuring 100 of Auckland’s top dishes as nominated by the public, has just been released — giving Aucklanders and those visiting a comprehensive guide to what to eat across the region. Developed annually, the list sits as a celebration of Auckland’s incredible, diverse culinary scene, highlighting unique and beloved dishes bespoke to Tāmaki Makaurau.

Left: Bar Magda’s lamb ribs. Right: Cassia’s Pani Puri

Now in its fourth year, Iconic Auckland Eats was established by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited as a way to showcase the vibrancy of the region’s gastronomic offering, highlighting legendary dishes that range from fine dining to cheap and cheerful — covering everything in between, too. The dishes, submitted for consideration by locals, capture the essence of Auckland, embodying the cultural melting pot and richness that makes the region so special.

When it comes to what’s included, many Denizen favourites made the cut — from Bar Magda’s beautiful lamb ribs, served with pyanggang, green sambal, and a soft herb salad, to Amano’s famous scampi pasta (swoon), Depot’s fish sliders — unsurprisingly on the list for four years running, and Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast.

Left: Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger. Right: Amano’s scampi pasta

Icons like Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, Fish Smith’s fish tacos, Gochu’s milk bun, The Oyster Inn’s Te Matuku oysters, Soul Bar’s mouthwatering macaroni cheese, and Daily Bread’s irresistible custard square all feature, too, in amongst quirkier additions — from Lilian’s prosciutto and grape pizza to Sumthin Dumplin’s beef and cheese iteration, Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger, Culprit’s ‘ugly carrots’, and Ahi’s scampi corndogs (a must try).

Left: Gochu’s milk bun. Right: Sumthin Dumplin’s beef & cheese Dumplings

As has been the case since the initiative’s inception, the variety of cuisines on the list reflects the incredible mix of ethnicities in Auckland, and each nominated dish has a story behind the submission, with locals sharing insight into what the dish means to them.

While reading through the thousands of submissions, the team behind Iconic Auckland Eats selects a favourite entry that embodies the list’s ethos. This year, Tracy Berno was selected as a winner, receiving vouchers to enjoy all 100 dishes across the year. Tracy’s story told of her connection to Homeland’s delicious ika mata — a dish that pays homage to Auckland’s Pacific culture and heritage, and embodies the region’s multiculturalism and unique food scene.

Left: Soul Bar & Bistro’s macaroni cheese. Right: Daily Bread’s custard square

So, be it inspiration for a venue to visit, or a specific dish to satisfy a craving, Iconic Auckland Eats’ top 100 list rounds up some of the top spots across the region — sitting as an incredible resource for locals or those visiting from further afield.

iconiceats.co.nz

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you
Masu, SkyCity

Heading out on a Monday? Here’s where to dine in Auckland

No matter the occasion, there’s always one day of the week that leaves Aucklanders in the lurch when it comes to dining. Eating out on a Monday isn’t always the standard, but sometimes, whether it’s an occasion to celebrate or a friend in town, the situation calls for it. And because hospitality workers are deserving of their own weekend too, many places are closed.  

So, to avoid getting caught out next time you want to dine out on a Monday, our editors have rounded up a few of their favourite restaurants that can be relied upon any day of the week.

Monday Night Dining
Editors’ Picks

SkyCity
Metita

Auckland CBD
Gilt Brasserie

Monday Night Dining
The Best Of The Rest

Ahi, Commercial Bay

Alma, Britomart

Annabel’s Wine Bar, Ponsonby

Apero, K’Road

Azabu, Mission Bay & Ponsonby

Beau, Ponsonby

Bossi, Auckland CBD

Bivacco, Viaduct Harbour

Cafe Hanoi, Britomart

Candela, K’Road

Otto, K’Road

Darling on Drake, Victoria Park

Ebisu, Britomart

East Restaurant, Auckland CBD

Eden Noodles, Commercial Bay

Esther, Viaduct Harbour

Hello Beasty, Viaduct Harbour

Ockhee, Ponsonby

Hotel Ponsonby, Ponsonby

Gemmi, Commercial Bay

Gochu, Commercial Bay

Ghost Street, Britomart

Inca, Ponsonby

Jervois Steak House, Herne Bay

Kingi, Britomart

Lilian, Grey Lynn

Non Solo Pizza, Parnell

Origine, Commercial Bay

Poni, Commercial Bay

Pici, K’Road

Prego, Ponsonby

Saint Alice, Viaduct Harbour

SPQR, Ponsonby

Sri Pinang, K’Road

Tacoteca, City Works Depot

The Blue Breeze Inn, Ponsonby

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you
BALMAIN SS24

Embrace the sleek sophistication of Photo Finish Hair — the tress trend of the moment

With awards season in full swing, London Fashion Week coming to a close, and Milan and Paris fashion weeks just around the corner, the breakout hair trend of the year is making its mark: picture-perfect, sleek, silky, photo finish hair. According to hairstylist to the stars and industry stalwart Sam McKnight, there’s been a definitive move (back) towards more done hair, where subtle volume, shine, and gloss reign supreme.

A step back from slick buns, the idea here is a cool girl ponytail with a luxe, mirror-shine finish. To achieve the look, cleanse hair — thoroughly rinsing to avoid conditioner residue, before using heat tools to completely smooth any frizz or flyaways. Once light and fresh, sweep the hair into a tight pony using lightweight styling products to boost shine, before finishing with an oil — the secret to runway-ready locks.

Get The Look
Photo Finish Hair Products
BALMAIN SS24
Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil from Revolve
Olaplex Clarifying Shampoo from Adore Beauty
Ceremonia Papaya Scalp Scrub from Revolve
ARKIVE Future Youth Treatment Mask from Mecca
Mason Pearson Mix Hair Brush from Revolve
Hair by Sam McKnight Lazy Girl Hair Cleanse Cloths from SpaceNK
OUAI Leave In Conditioner from Sephora
Bumble and bumble Invisible Oil Mask from Mecca
Briogeo Scalp Revival Massager from Mecca
BALMAIN SS24

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0414 Armchair and Gong Coffee Table by Gallotti&Radice from ECC

Touchpoint: Infuse interiors with depth and dimension this season by bringing this trend into your home

Imbue your home with a tactile warmth by employing natural textures and materials. Raw timber, stone, bouclé upholstery, brass and leather detailing and soft woollen carpets all play into this trend, and will (when used correctly) result in an interior that feels inviting and cosy, but still decidedly contemporary and cool.   

Persona Stockholm restaurant by Erik Bratsberg
Pukka armchair from Ligne Roset
Apparatus Talisman loop sconce from ECC
The Rug Company Sonic Spruce rug from Design Central
Tobias coffee table from Design Central
Casius floor lamp from Design Central
B&B Italia Tortello sofa from Matisse
Cto Lighting Array Opal Extended Pendant from ECC
Studio Klass San Stool from Ligne Roset
Constance Frapolli Fergus Throw from Ligne Roset
Moroso Pacific Sofa from Matisse
Zeus and Teti Side Table from Studio Italia
Hepworth Wall Light from ECC
ClassiCon Bell Side Table from Matisse
Assouline Jeanneret Chandigarh from Ligne Roset
Riva 1920 Speed from Matisse

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Daily Bread

Denizen’s definitive guide to Auckland’s best grab & go lunch spots

As much as we love the countless eateries in Auckland serving up both delicious food and elevated settings in which to enjoy it, it’s not every day that we have the time to sit down and enjoy a long, languorous lunch. Often, in the midst of a busy day, we simply need something quick and tasty to grab on the go, and luckily, there is no shortage of lunch spots in the city delivering just that. From satisfying sandos to pizza by the slice, satiating sushi, fresh salads, and delectable sweet treats to finish, here’s where to get your lunchtime fix.

Best Grab & Go Spots
Editors’ Picks

Britomart
The Store

Remuera
Knead on Benson

Best Grab & Go Spots
The Best Of The Rest

Allpress, Various Locations

Amano Bakery, Britomart

Cafe Perch, Freemans Bay

Catroux, Westmere

Farro, Various Locations

Five Loaves, Herne Bay

Goodlife Superfood Co, Auckland CBD

Hello Mister, Various Locations

Herne Bay Foodstore, Herne Bay

Honey Bones, Grey Lynn

H&T Kitchen, Commercial Bay

Little & Friday, Various Locations

Nam Nam, Commercial Bay

Pizza Monkey, Grey Lynn

Ripe Deli, Various Locations

Tuck Shop, Wynyard Quarter

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you

Jaimie Webster Haines’ eponymous label is popping up on Faraday Street this weekend — and you don’t want to miss it

When it comes to dressing in 2024, aesthetics are only one piece of an intricately woven puzzle. Wearability, versatility, functionality and durability all play an important part, amongst a host of other considerations — something Jaimie Webster Haines understands implicitly. Her eponymous label, Jaimie, is popping up this Thursday — Saturday at My Exhibition on Faraday Street in Parnell, showcasing the designer’s beautifully considered collection and offering styling advice and insight into the brand.

Left: London Shirt Release #01. Right: Bow Bow Bag

Having worked as a DJ, model and most recently, designer, both in New Zealand and abroad, Jaimie launched her label as an extension of her creative world — bringing together her passions for art, fashion, photography, and music, with her innate design sensibility and impeccable eye for detail to offer a concise edit of timeless, quality garments.

London Shirts & Karate Pants both from Release #01 

The ethos behind Jaimie (the label, although the same could be said for the woman) is first and foremost centred on quality. Jaimie sources linens from Japan and Turkey and wool and cashmere from Italy, taking care to select fabrics that have enduring appeal and are built to last. The brand also utilises deadstock and textile mill leftovers where possible, as well as producing in small quantities — all with an eye to the environmental impact of the business. When it comes to production, Jaimie looks to local artisans and suppliers, carefully choosing partners that share her uncompromising commitment to craft and detail. The resulting pieces — from beautifully tailored shirts and trousers rendered in classic linen and the best quality cotton (the core of the label’s offering) to the occasional easy wearing dress or stand out accessory, are crafted with the objective of enhancing the daily life of the wearer. Any given piece by Jaime promises to provide not only comfort, but an intrinsic, emotional comfort, too — and an innate sense of confidence.

Left: Kyoto Shorts Release #01. Right: Vitals London Shirt

But don’t just take our word for it. The thing about quality design, exceptional fabrics and considered craftsmanship is that you need to experience it first-hand to truly appreciate its appeal. Knowing this, and in celebration of her new pieces and the launch of her website, Jaimie is taking up residence this weekend in the beautiful My Exhibition space. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the collection and Jaimie herself, who is around all weekend offering styling advice, insight into the garments, and of course, serving up epic tunes.

The Jaimie pop-up is running from Thursday 22nd — Saturday 24th February at My Exhibition, located at 15 Faraday Street.

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Need some interior inspo? We take you inside an exquisite Notting Hill townhouse by Banda Design

Perfectly positioned within the charming enclave of London’s Notting Hill, a new architectural marvel has been unveiled, redefining the notion of refined urban living. Crafted by the visionary team at Banda Design, this exquisite townhouse on Leinster Square seamlessly blends the past with the present, drawing inspiration from the natural world to create a sanctuary of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. Here, we take you inside.

There is a sense of serenity that has been embedded into the design of this home, from the earthy, calm colour palette to the foundations of period features, and the soft, natural light that has been introduced in every space. Here, Banda has managed to create what feels like a modern family home with an aesthetic that is still deeply historic. Not an easy balance to strike.

The living space sets the tone for the rest of the home. A testament to Banda’s commitment to artistry and comfort, this room boasts a striking Aubusson verdure tapestry, dating back to the late 17th Century, alongside bespoke furnishings that effortlessly marry old-world charm with contemporary allure. Other sculptural furniture (including a 1960’s Äôs Swedish high back armchair, sourced from The Loods, and a rustic Joseph Berry dark timber coffee table), illuminated by the warm glow of a Murano glass chandelier, gives the space a sense of understated luxury and a timeless appeal.

In the kitchen, this idea continues, where intricate cornicing and a leaf-moulded ceiling rose (on which hangs a Beetle Chandelier in antique brass from Gallery L7) are juxtaposed against a modern marble island and Charles Dudouyt oak dining chairs from the 1950s, while a reupholstered mid-century Scandinavian daybed stands as a welcoming window seat. It’s a piece of architectural theatre set firmly within the context of contemporary design, creating a space that is as functional as it is visually captivating.

Upstairs, the master bedroom is a study in tranquility, with a bespoke headboard upholstered in Watts of Westminster Cumulus fabric and linen bedcovers adding to the ambience. A wrought iron stool and sculptural silk piece by Ursula Nistrup and Lotte Henriksen complete the space, offering an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Custom headboards and oak flutter side tables stand in the other bedrooms, too, where no detail has been left to chance. Even a child’s bedroom is a charming piece of design, adorned with a bed canopy in Alice Palmer’s embroidered lemon fabric with matching lemon box pleat lampshade.

Downstairs, the lower ground floor beckons with spaces designed for entertaining and relaxation. A bespoke bar and round travertine table provide the perfect setting for after-dinner drinks, while a gym flooded with natural light and finished in natural materials like timber, linen and leather offers an exceptional space for wellness and rejuvenation.

Exuding the kind of sophisticated, thoughtful, pared-back and ultimately liveable design for which Banda Design has become so known, this London townhouse is an exquisite example of how modern design is enhanced by honouring the history of a space. It’s hardly surprising that such a seamless home has come from the Banda team, a design office that its owner, Edo Mapelli Mozzi, has (in just 15 years) taken from a niche London development office to a burgeoning global property practice, with projects spanning the world.

Get The Look


Audo Copenhagen
Candle Holder from Dawson & Co.
Moroso Getlucky Armchair from Matisse
Alinea Angelo Coffee Table from Studio Italia
Giorgetti Rea Bed from ECC
Timothy Oulton Puzo Sconce from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Copper Mirror from Design Central
Stories of Italy Karkade Flute Set from Faradays
Weave Alberto Cushion from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Oxley Coffee Table from Design Central
Soho Home Ina Wall Light from Design Central
Dax Candleholder from Father Rabbit
Moooi Aldoram Sofa from ECC
Minotti Linha Studio Desk from ECC
Casamania La-Dina Chair from Matisse
Sambonet Elite Wine Cooler from The Studio of Tableware
PENT Luxury Boxing Gloves from Ssense
Mater Accent Side Table from ECC
Noblesse Old Fashion Tumbler Set from The Studio of Tableware
Pablo Picasso the Impossible Collection from Ligne Roset

Design

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Make the most of fresh summer flavours with this vibrant, umami ceviche recipe

A classic from kitchen whizz Liv Glazebrook of Kitchen of Treats, this fresh and succulent ceviche recipe is filled to the brim with umami flavours, pops of citrus, vibrant herbs and a touch of spice. Make the most of the few summer weeks we have left by whipping up a plate of this mouthwatering dish for your next get-together. It’s sure to impress.

Kitchen of Treats Ceviche Recipe


Ingredients

300g fish (trevally or kingfish recommended)

For the dressing:
65ml water
65ml white vinegar
65g sugar
65ml fish sauce
2 Tbsp lime/lemon juice
1 Tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated

To finish:
1 ripe avocado, halved & sliced lengthways
1 long red chilli, finely sliced
Mint leaves, thinly chopped
Coriander, thinly chopped
Crispy shallots

Method

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
2. Place the sliced avocado on the base of the medium plate and top with fish, sliced sashimi-style and evenly spaced. Generously spoon dressing over the fish.
3. Sprinkle with thinly sliced chilli, mint leaves and coriander. Finish with crispy fried shallots.

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you

Meet The Emerald — a lush, new restaurant and bar in Epsom you need to try

Set in an iconic building that dates back to the 1950s, a new restaurant and bar has landed in the heart of Epsom and it should definitely be on your radar. Meet The Emerald, owned and operated by Darren Tolley (a hospitality veteran with over 15 years in the industry and multiple venues under his belt) this welcoming, lush and sophisticated new dining destination marries timeless elegance with sophisticated flair, and offers a menu of delicious, modern-bistro fare to boot.

Inside, diners are immediately enveloped in a unique world. Loosely inspired by the idea of a greenhouse, The Emerald was designed by the experts at CTRL Space and boasts towering ceilings painted in a lush, verdant hue and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both spacious and intimate. Here, the carefully curated decor is almost reminiscent of a bygone era of glamour and refinement, where Art Deco charm meets sleek, contemporary details. “Think Hong Kong’s Raffles Hotel meets Islington local,” Tolley explains. “It is just the most beautiful space to be in, even photos do do it justice… it’s welcoming, light and airy and at night it takes a beautiful turn as the sun sets on the inside bar and the beautiful warm feature lights take over.”

At the helm in The Emerald’s kitchen is Executive Chef Ross Birch, a master of his craft with decades of experience and close to 10 years working with Tolley at his various venues. His innovative, modern bistro menu showcases the finest in locally-sourced ingredients and reimagines classic dishes with modern twists. Small options include salmon ceviche served with a mix of blood orange, soused fennel, hazelnut and sloe gin, salt n pepper crusted prawns and a ‘hand cut’ steak tartar with fried quail egg, truffled chips, shallot, pickles & beef fat mayo. While those seeking something more substantial should look to dishes like the classic steak frites, with grass-fed Lansdowne beef, pan juices, vine tomato and marmite hollandaise, or the torched kahawai fillet, green lip mussels, green marsala, potato and cucumber. On the sweet side of things, desserts like the Emerald eat ‘n mess, with meringue, macerated summer fruits and elderflower, or the chocolate delice with salted caramel, hazelnuts and coconut yoghurt are sure to satiate any cravings.

Beyond its tasty food, The Emerald is a vibrant social hub that buzzes with energy all day long. Whether it’s for a leisurely lunch with friends or a convivial after-work gathering, The Emerald’s vibe is always busy and bustling. Its central location on Greenwoods Corner, coupled with its reputation for impeccable service and ambiance, have already made it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, and as Tolley tells us, this is just the beginning.

Open seven days a week, from noon till late, The Emerald invites its guests to indulge in an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary. And whether you’re a local of the area, or are simply seeking a new watering hole that offers something a little different, this new destination should definitely be on your radar.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, 12pm until late

The Emerald

581 Manukau Road,
Auckland

09 624 0363

www.theemerald.co.nz

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you

Voices of Hope’s new audio-visual exhibition is an illuminating exploration of mental health in New Zealand

It’s no secret that the statistics around New Zealand’s poor mental health are staggering. Our nation’s rates of mental health challenges are shockingly disproportionate to the rest of the world, and often, it’s our most vulnerable communities that are the most greatly impacted. But increasingly, we’re seeing heed paid to an issue that has long been shied away from — with a growing number of Kiwis having the courage to speak up and seek support, and in doing so, inspiring those around them to acknowledge their own feelings.

There are a host of charities in New Zealand doing incredible work in this space — changing the narrative, raising awareness, removing the stigma, and shifting our collective thinking to incite radical change. One such organisation is Voices Of Hope, whose goal is spreading hope through the voices of those with lived experience. They also provide a safe space for those facing mental health challenges. This month, the charity is furthering their important and impactful work, shining the spotlight on a diverse range of individuals through a moving audio-visual exhibition entitled Behind the Smile

Within the exhibition, open to the public now at Allpress Studio, 11 everyday kiwis have been profiled, shot by renowned photographer Tom Gould to capture the essence of each person in their ‘happy place’. The series features intimate, raw interviews that reveal the lived experiences and mental health struggles each person has faced, portraying vulnerability and strength through Gould’s moving portraiture. The hope is that, by witnessing a group of New Zealanders from all walks of life laying themselves and their struggles bare, others will be empowered to tell their stories and seek support, too.

Everyone faces struggles you can’t see behind the smile, and while this campaign and exhibition set out to spread hope to people who may be struggling, it also sits as a call to arms for us all to look past the surface and be more aware, empathetic, and in touch with our humanity.

Behind the Smile is a free exhibition at Allpress Studio, running from 16th February — 8th March

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