According to Pharrell Williams, “Jewellery is the punctuation mark of a person.” And given the megastar’s storied (and well-documented) history of trend-defining adornment, we’d say punctuation is something he takes very seriously indeed. In his debut collection for Tiffany and Co., dubbed ‘Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams’, the newly-instated men’s creative director of Louis Vuitton has tapped into his unmatched creative prowess to design a body of work that defies the conventions of fine jewellery, and lives up to its mighty moniker.
Williams called on ancient Greek mythology when conceiving the 19-piece collection, looking to Poseidon’s trident for inspiration. The resulting designs are an expression of energy, power and force, centralising the trident motif, juxtaposed by a uniquely shaped link that is curved and soft against the sharpness of the spear. “I’m very inspired by the water, and the name of this collection “Titan” draws inspiration from Poseidon, ruler of the sea, King of Atlantis.” muses Williams, drawing attention to the fact that Atlantis is also the name of the community where he grew up in Virginia Beach.
Across an array of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, the structure of the trident is enlivened with spear-like spikes, almost punkish in design — available in 18k yellow gold or a deep, dark titanium with all metal and diamond iterations. The pavé pieces offer an unexpected twist on traditional settings, featuring reverse-set diamonds that expose the diamond’s pavilion, with many of the designs offering a unique riff on the ever-iconic Tiffany Lock.
Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams medium link clasp necklace in 18k yellow gold with pavé diamond
The titanium used across several designs sits in stunning contrast to the lustre of gold, making an impactful statement, and a carefully-considered one at that, “The detail in all of the jewellery pieces is very intentional, the use of black titanium…it’s a physical manifestation of beauty in blackness.” Williams reveals. While the technical precision in each piece is intended to move with the wearer, further showcasing the House’s commitment to flawless craftsmanship.
“We are excited to unveil Pharrell’s inaugural collection for Tiffany. The Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams collection defies the conventions of fine jewellery design. It represents a balance of Pharrell’s creative vision with Tiffany & Co.’s inventive craftsmanship,” said Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President, Product, Communications and Industrial, Tiffany & Co. “Each piece embodies Pharrell’s distinct style and unique point of view.”
Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams is available now in the US (exclusively on tiffany.com and in-person at The Landmark in New York City), with the collection available to shop globally at Tiffany & Co. stores and on tiffany.com from June.
Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams
Our Editors’ Picks
Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams medium link clasp necklace in 18k yellow gold with pavé diamond
Bracelet in Titanium, Gold and Diamonds from Tiffany & Co.
Five-row Ringin Gold with Diamonds from Tiffany & Co.
Clasp Necklace in Gold with Diamonds from Tiffany & Co.
Pendant in Titanium and Yellow Gold from Tiffany & Co.
Titan Medium Earrings in Gold with Diamonds from Tiffany & Co.
Medium Link Station Bracelet in Gold from Tiffany & Co.
Ring in Titanium and Gold with a Diamond from Tiffany & Co.
Earrings in Titanium, Gold and Diamonds from Tiffany & Co.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Jono Parker & Jake Dennis | 8 May 2024
“Our overall goal is to create one of Australasia’s most iconic offerings,” says Callum O’Brien, co-founder of Queens Rooftop & Wineshop (or ‘Queens’), a landmark new restaurant and bar within the Commercial Bay precinct with 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, “A rooftop site on the waterfront in the heart of New Zealand’s biggest city was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.”
If the entrance is anything to go by, revellers can expect the unexpected at this future institution, which is accessed via Queens Wine Shop off Te Komititanga (the new public square at the harbour end of Queen Street). Past the towering shelves of hand-selected local and international wines sits a storeroom housing a private elevator, ready to transport guests up to the 21st floor. Doors open into the sprawling eatery and terrace beyond, with its unrivalled vantage point, and warm, elegant dining space that instantly immerses guests in a lively ambience.
Right: Market Oysters
Conceived by hospitality veterans Callum O’Brien, Andrew Roborgh, and Kristian Lloydd (the trio who established Saint Alice and Dr Rudi’s at Viaduct Harbour), and new partners Reuben Ruscoe (Queens’ General Manager) and Maia Atvars (Queens’ Head Chef), Queens is starting on strong footing, with the clever cohort pooling their diverse experience to create something truly exceptional that is already proving a hotly-anticipated addition to Auckland’s diverse dining scene.
The thoughtful space was designed by Melbourne’s Techne Architects (the team behind the likes of Tonka, Garden State Hotel, and The Espy) with support from Warren and Mahoney, and it’s clear that the vision — to create something approachable yet worldly and sophisticated, has been realised to stunning effect. Here, unfussy polished wooden flooring meets textured walls, impeccably-crafted shelving, and simple but chic leaners and tables topped with a deep rust marble, complimented by light olive seating with a sculptural edge. The bar area is bedecked in a stunning teal panelling that curves upwards to wrap the ceiling, while a clever mix of materials (from striking marble, to cream tiles and slick panelled wooden shelving) creates a warm, elevated vibe.
Queens breathtaking view
When dining on the terrace, the view undoubtedly takes centre stage. “When you walk out on the rooftop, it’s breathtaking,” O’Brien tells us, “The terrace wraps right around the outside of the building, so there are uninterrupted views east to the Coromandel, to the north and the west to the Waitakere Ranges.” But the Queens team want to make clear that, while the outlook is undoubtedly magic, a striking vista isn’t the only thing on offer. “It was important to us to create a concept that was equally as impressive as the view,” O’Brien tells me, “We want Queens to be the best hospitality spot in New Zealand, and instead of relying on the view, we have gone all out to create a venue that is special in its own right.”
Left: Pork Belly ‘sando’
Housed within the recently completed high-rise which the InterContinental Auckland also calls home, Queens’ prime position makes it one of Auckland’s most convenient and central spots for every occasion, further adding to its allure. From breakfast meetings to long lunches, celebratory feasts and nightcaps, or simply a place to take in Auckland’s stunning surrounds, the all-day menu makes for a reliable go-to, right in the centre of the city. “We want everyone to feel welcome, relaxed and at home,” says O’Brien, “It’s a place you can book for a special occasion, but also a spot you can pop into for a quick beer and snack,” “We have tried to create an approachable space that can be enjoyed as much for formal occasions as it can for something more casual.” he continues.
Left to right: Calamari & Pork Belly, Negroni and Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters
Right: Rocket salad and Slow Cooked leeks
When it comes to the food, the menu is approachable yet refined, offering both worldly delights and local fare — often blending the two to stunning effect. Maia Atvars (ex-Depot, Saint Alice, Hotel Ponsonby) heads up the kitchen team, and has crafted a menu that screams contemporary European, and caters to not only every occasion, but every taste and proclivity too. Standouts include the duck breast confit leg with kumara hoisin, cucumber with cherry jus, and butter lettuce, and line-caught snapper schnitzel with peas and a caviar beurre blanc. There’s also calamari and smoked pork belly skewers with a tangy green olive and shallot dressing, Cloudy Bay popcorn clams with spicy salt, and a panko-crumbed pork belly milk bun sando with Japanese gravy (which is a favourite of O’Briens, alongside Maia’s take on pāua croquettes which are “incredible”). In addition, a raw bar will hero the freshest seafood from around Aotearoa, while The Seafood Tower is sure to become an instant cult favourite, featuring an array of freshly caught delicacies from oysters to crayfish, clams, kina, pāua, sashimi, and more.
Calamari & pork belly
The drinks at both Queens Rooftop and Queens Wine Shop follow a similar ethos, calling on both local and international flavours to offer something unique. Reuben Ruscoe (ex-Dr. Rudi’s, Saint Alice) has developed an envelope-pushing drinks offering for both the bar and the wine shop. At Queens, creative cocktails draw inspiration from global trends whilst utilising contemporary techniques and fresh, seasonal New Zealand produce, while, when it comes to the beer and wine offering, you’ll find familiar favourites on tap alongside a host of local craft beers, and an extensive list of fine wines (including a selection of premium champagnes). Downstairs in the wine shop, you’ll find a diverse offering from heralded regions globally, O’Brien tells us, “Whether you’re interested in picking up some fine Champagne, floral Italian Fiano, or a robust Australian red, you’ll find it here, not to mention a great range of stalwart NZ producers that continually showcase what an amazing wine-growing region we have.”
Much-loved DJ Jono Bougen (aka Jon Boogie) is in charge of the entertainment, curating a roster of genre-pushing talent promising to set the musical scene throughout the week.
Two years in the making, with a notable team at the helm and one of the best spots in the city, Queens has all the makings of a future icon. In O’Brien’s words, “At Queens Rooftop and Wine Shop, you’ll find what we think is a pretty special venue, serving delicious eats and drinks with 270-degree views, a raw bar featuring the freshest kaimoana, and a rotation of local DJs spinning vinyl — all the ingredients of a place you want to spend hours at.” Watch this space.
Known for holding some of the country’s most coveted bottles in its expansive cellar, Somm Cellar Door has quickly solidified itself as a revered local authority on wine. This month, the chic destination has a new guest in residence — stalwart New Zealand winery, Church Road, and we’re giving away an exclusive dining experience for two.
With a month-long line-up of exclusive offers, there are more reasons than ever to visit Somm, with bespoke Church Road wine flights, a special set menu thoughtfully created around the prestige TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, and an unmissable wine tasting event with Church Road’s Chief Winemaker Chris Scott.
Church Road set menu
Celebrate the residence with a special set menu, created with Church Road’s lauded TOM wine in mind. Here, a glass of 2019 Church Road TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (from the cellar) is served with a delectable Carrara Wagyu sirloin with Hawke’s Bay jus, chimichurri, shoestring fries, and rosemary salt, which beyond being delicious, presents a unique opportunity to try a wine that is seldom available by the glass. The Guest in Residence set menu is $75pp and is available until Sunday, June 2nd.
Church Road’s Chief Winemaker, Chris Scott
Or, if you consider yourself a bit of a wine connoisseur (or you’d like to become one), secure a spot at a wine tasting with Church Road’s Chief Winemaker, Chris Scott. Known as one of New Zealand’s most celebrated winemakers, having been named New Zealand Winemaker of the Year by Winestate Magazine five times, Scott will be pouring some of his favourite Church Road wines while sharing insight into their nuances. In each tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to experience four of Church Road’s most exceptional vintages while feasting on a delectable spread from Somm’s clever culinary team, with the option to purchase the wines to take home and enjoy further post-event.
Church Road wine flight
And if it’s simply a taste of one of the country’s oldest and most-loved wine regions that appeals, make sure to request one of the curated Church Road wine flights when you’re next visiting.
Somm’s reputation as one of the preeminent and most delicious wining and dining spots in the city is further solidified with this new Guest in Residence, bringing a taste of Hawke’s Bay to central Auckland, offering city-siders more than a few ways to fill their May dining agendas.
For your chance to win an exclusive dining experience for two and sample Somm’s exceptional Guest in Residence set menu, enter below.
The first Monday in May carries special meaning for the fashion set, marking the most significant event on the calendar — The Met Gala.
Inaugurated as an annual fundraising gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, The Met Gala has become synonymous with outrageous outfits and iconic celebrity moments. It is an event that has come to capture the imagination of even those completely uninterested in fashion or glamour. And while almost every notable figure in Hollywood receives an invite, from style icons to actors and musicians (and more recently, to TikTok stars) we are left to look on from home — taking on the role of fashion critic to dissect the outfits of those in attendance.
Each year guests are asked to dress to a theme reflecting that of the Costume Institute’s exhibition, and this year, it’s the new spring exhibition, ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion’, that plays muse. The associated dress code was ‘The Garden of Time’, taking inspiration from a 1962 short story of the same name by J.G. Ballard, whose narrative centres on a dwindling garden of flowers with the ability to slow down time. Attendees donned their botanic-inspired and dystopian-esque interpretations, some taking the story’s inspiration more literally than others (we’re looking at you, Zendaya), while others leaned into the Sleepy Beauty motif wholeheartedly.
Here, we round up all the best looks from this year’s ‘first Monday in May,’ each of which showcases why this event has become the most significant on the global fashion calendar.
Met Gala 2024
Our Editors’ Picks
Anna Wintour Wearing custom Loewe
Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky Wearing Tom Ford and (Elsa wearing) Bulgari jewellery
Bad Bunny Wearing custom Maison Margiela and Tiffany & Co. Sunglasses
Demi Moore wearing Harris Reed and Cartier High Jewellery
Jennifer Lopez Wearing custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture and Tiffany & Co. High Jewellery
Kylie Jenner Wearing custom Oscar de la Renta
Gigi Hadid Wearing Thom Browne
Kendall Jenner Wearing archive Givenchy 1999
Greta Lee Wearing Loewe
Tyla Wearing Balmain
Karlie Kloss Wearing custom Swarovski
Omar Apollo Wearing Loewe
Dua Lipa Wearing Marc Jacobs and Tiffany & Co. jewellery
Mindy Kaling Wearing Gaurav Gupta
Madelyn Cline wearing custom Tommy Hilfiger
Emily Ratajkowski Wearing Atelier Versace FW01 Haute Couture
Riley Keough Wearing Chanel
Kaia Gerber Wearing custom Prada and Tiffany & Co. Jewellery
Lana Del Rey Wearing custom Alexander McQueen
Nicholas Galitzine Wearing Fendi
Lana DelLil Nasx Wearing custom Luar (covered in 50,000 Swarovski crystals)
Rebecca Ferguson Wearing Thom Browne
Irina Shayk Wearing custom Swarovski
Elle Fanning Wearing Balmain and Cartier jewellery
Zendaya Wearing Maison Margiela Couture and Bulgari Jewellery
Naomi Campbell Wearing custom Burberry
Nicole Kidman Wearing iconic 1950s couture gown by Cristobal Balenciaga — albeit, a recreation
Anok Yai Wearing custom Swarovski
Kim Kardashian Wearing custom Maison Margiela Couture
If, like us, you’ve left planning for Mother’s Day a little late this year, don’t panic. There’s a one-stop shop that offers not only everything you could possibly want when it comes to gifting, but a host of exceptional restaurants to treat Mum to a tasty meal out too.
We’re talking, of course, about Commercial Bay — the vibrant shopping and dining precinct in the heart of the city brimming with exceptional eateries, a number of boutiques and gift stores, a florist, a chocolatier, and everything else you need to pull off a Mother’s Day for the books.
Here, we round up where to dine, shop, and find incredible deals sure to make Mum’s day.
Fashion lore credits Celine’s recognisable Triomphe logo to a minor car accident in Paris in the 1970s. So what is the story behind this sought-after icon? And how has it impacted the house of Celine?
The year was 1973 and Celine Vipiana, founder of the now-iconic fashion house that carries her name, had just been in a minor collision on the Place de l’Etoile when she noticed a motif adorning the chain around the outside of the Arc de Triomphe. It was a moment that would change the visual identity of her brand forever. Fascinated by the subtle inverted ‘C’ link, Vipiana allegedly reached out to the City of Paris to seek permission to adapt the symbol as her house emblem, and soon, it was emblazoned across labels, on pieces of ready-to-wear clothing and on sought-after bags and accessories.
Celine winter 23
Known then as the ‘Blazon Chaîne’, the symbol quickly gained icon status. Not only did it represent the deep ties between Celine and the city in which it was founded but it also spoke to the maison’s intrinsic spirit of victory and resilience, respect for history and timeless sophistication. It was a subtle marker of status, embodying that simple but undeniable nod to luxury that the French do so well. And it persisted for a number of seasons before eventually (and unfortunately) falling out of Celine’s collections altogether.
In fact, it wasn’t until fairly recently that the Blazon Chaîne was pulled from the archives of Celine to be given a new life as the ‘Triomphe’, gaining fresh meaning in the context of contemporary, 21st Century fashion, and bridging the gap between Celine’s rich history and its hugely impactful role as a forward-thinking player in the industry today.
Celine Victoire bag available in-store at Faradays
Back in 2018, when Hedi Slimane took the reins of Celine, the designer meticulously studied the maison and its origins in search of inspiration for his creative direction. There, in the brand’s archive, he realised that he was sitting on a piece of fashion gold; a symbol that hadn’t been utilised in nearly five decades, but that spoke perfectly to the unique vision that Slimane was bringing to this storied brand.
“The Triomphe emblem offers a perfect balance between the history of Celine… and the idea of commercial iconography that creates sell-out items each season.”
In Celine’s Spring 2019 show, titled ‘Paris La Nuit’, Slimane reintroduced the logo as the ‘Triomphe’ and adorned a series of simple, chic handbags with the icon as a gold clasp, a move that not only reinstated its standing as one of the maison’s central motifs, but that marked the start of what can only be described as the Triomphe era. Truly it was a pivotal, full-circle moment for Celine. The Triomphe exemplified Slimane’s sophisticated eye, as well as his commitment to honouring the brand’s history while anchoring it firmly within the contemporary landscape. With the Triomphe, the designer managed to both reaffirm Celine’s status as a leader in the luxury field, and remind everyone of the richness of its past.
Celine Triomphe cap available in-store at Faradays
It also, almost immediately, birthed a new ‘It’ bag. Very quickly, Slimane’s Triomphe design became one of the fashion set’s most sought-after styles, and since its introduction in 2019, its cache as a coveted symbol for luxury and refined design has only continued to grow.
According to Constance von Dadelszen, Creative Director of Faradays (the exclusive New Zealand stockist of Celine ready-to-wear) the brand’s Triomphe pieces, particularly accessories like belts, and any clothing that features the logo will sell out as soon as they hit the store, von Dadelszen explaining how the Triomphe speaks to such a wide cross-section of their customers and can look as modern as it can classic, depending on who is wearing it and how it is styled. “I think the Triomphe emblem offers a perfect balance between the history of Celine (I have a number of early-era Celine vintage pieces in my collection which feature the marque), and the idea of commercial iconography that creates sell-out items each season.”
Chic, timeless and imbued with history, Celine’s Triomphe logo is more than just an undeniably successful selling point for the brand. It is a symbol of Celine’s values, a representation of its Parisian origins and a testament to the ways in which Hedi Slimane’s clever creative strategy continues to drive the brand forward.
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again — Hello Beasty is one of the most delicious fusion eateries in the city, consistently serving up a taste of Korean, Japanese, and Chinese-inspired cuisine with something for everyone. And this month, the vibrant Viaduct Harbour eatery is building on its extensive menu, unveiling a number of satisfying and flavour-packed new dishes and drinks, conceived with the changing seasons in mind.
Left: Shokupan Japanese Milk Bread. Right: Heart and Seoul Cocktail
NZ Wagyu Beef, Shiitake and Black Pepper Potsticker Dumplings
The Shokupan Japanese Milk Bread with garlic, shiro, dashi and parsley butter (Hello Beasty’s take on the classic Kiwi garlic bread) is an impossibly fluffy morsel as light as air, and a more than perfect place to start. The delectable new potsticker dumpling iteration with NZ Wagyu beef, shiitake and black pepper served with garlic shoots, ginger and spring onion (on a bed of the eatery’s infamous housemade crunchy chilli, of course) is a must-try, ticking all of the soul-warming, craving-satisfying boxes.
Crispy-Fried Brussel Sprouts
Right: Crispy Salt & Pepper Pork Belly Gua Bao
Elsewhere on the menu, the new Crispy Salt & Pepper Pork Belly Gua Bao with pickled cucumber, chilli, and tamarind and lime sauce is an intriguing combination of flavours, conjuring the crisp, savoury tastes of salt and pepper squid combined with subtly sweet and juicy pork belly, paired perfectly with a hit of fresh pickled cucumber and a tasty sauce, all housed in a springy bao bun. Sublime. And the umami Crispy-Fried Brussel Sprouts with soubise, white miso and furikake is an essential addition to any table.
From the Hibachi, a Double Lamb Cutlet is served with tare, moromi miso eggplant, and spicy broad bean romesco, while a Spicy BBQ Chicken is served atop a chickpea, black garlic and sesame purée, finished with pickled cucumber and fresh turmeric.
Left: Beasty Martini. Right: Double Lamb Cutlet
On the drinks front, the Seoul Cocktail and the Beasty Martini have our attention. The martini, a heady mix of either Roku gin or Haku vodka, tomato and black pepper vermouth and lemon oil offers a unique take on the drink of the moment (and a delicious one at that), while the Heart and Seoul Cocktail pairs Hwayo Soju with Grey Goose vodka, rhubarb liqueur, rhubarb and raspberry shrub, lemon, and egg white, resulting in a libation that’s as stunning to imbibe as it is to behold.
Offering inventive fare sure to satisfy, in a vibrant spot that always promises a delightful dining experience, Hello Beasty is an eatery worthy of your attention. And with a number of exceptional new menu items to choose from, there’s only one thing for it — round up a group and book a table for the weekend ahead.
While children’s rooms are often more colourful and chaotic than calm and considered, when it comes to creativity, there’s a place for both. Cultivate a sense of discovery in a space that invites its inhabitants to explore and create in a pared-back setting — providing the canvas for endless imagination.
Since its inception, MoVida has delighted discerning Auckland diners with its mouthwatering menu, bringing a touch of exquisite, Spanish cuisine (with a decidedly Kiwi slant) to the city. Now, the destination’s acclaimed founder, Frank Camorra, is over from Melbourne to host an exquisite evening of food and wine this May in collaboration with Alkina Wines.
Alkina’s Polygon Grenache
Set to take place on Thursday May 16th, the evening will comprise four delectable courses curated by Frank himself, matched with a selection of world-class wines from Alkina — including the Polygon Grenache, a limited-release, allocation-only wine.
Wine expert Dan Coward from award-winning Alkina Vineyard in the Barossa Valley will lead the charge on the wine front, joining forces with Frank — the duo guiding lucky attendees through a night of exciting Spanish food and incredible Australian Grenache.
Wine expert Dan Coward from Alkina Wines
Set to be an unmissable event for wine and food enthusiasts alike, tickets include a four-course menu curated by Frank with matched wines, including a taster of the Polygon Grenache, for $125 per person. Spots are filling fast, so we suggest you secure yours sooner rather than later.
There is a plethora of tasty happenings for foodies to enjoy this May — offering an indulgent salve to the impending winter weather. From culinary celebrations to epic events and unmissable special menus, here is everything happening on Auckland’s dining scene this month.
AZABU PONSONBY’s Eat Drink Love Ponsonby Offer — ‘A Taste of Azabu’
The well-traversed streets of Ponsonby have once again transformed into a food lover’s paradise as the much-anticipated Eat Drink Love Ponsonby restaurant festival returns for its fifth year. Running until the 28th of May, the month-long event showcases the best of Ponsonby Road’s culinary melting pot of cuisines, spanning from Bangkok to Bali, Mexico to Malaysia, India to Italy — and beyond. This year, a record-breaking number of establishments are set to take part, with bars, cafes, restaurants and casual eateries all coming together to offer patrons an array of seriously tantalising culinary experiences — with options for every budget and palate.
Be it to start date night on a high note, squeeze in an early dinner with friends, catch up with colleagues for a bite after work, or settle in for dinner before a show, SkyCity’s Golden Hour offers elevated dining experiences no matter the occasion, with free parking for all bookings at SkyCity to make your meal stress-free. Here, in the bustling central city precinct, you’ll find a curation of bespoke seasonal menus and specials on offer for the night’s first sitting — allowing discerning diners to enjoy the last of the day’s rays while indulging in exceptional fare at one of the many award-winning restaurants within SkyCity’s impressive repertoire.
At the newly-opened Gloria’s deli in Commercial Bay, epic pizzas are a given, with every delicious component thoughtfully prepared — from slow-fermented breads to house-made sauces and fresh ingredients sourced from quality producers. So it’s little wonder that the clever team in the kitchen have dreamt up a divine seasonal iteration that has fast become the talk of the town. Introducing: the Pizza el Taglio — a divine combination of fig, honey, thyme, black pepper, and gorgonzola. Trust us when we say, you don’t want to miss this.
This Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12th, for those not clued up), two of our favourite purveyors of baked goods are joining forces, and our mouths are watering just thinking about it. Mor Bakery is bringing The Caker’s beloved minicakes to their cosy Remuera outpost for one day only, offering Aucklanders a chance to once again savour the institution’s most-loved flavours (exactly as you remember them, with ex-Cakers on the tools), filling the void that The Caker’s closure left in our local sweet treat scene. Run, don’t walk as, while Mor is (wisely) limiting cakes to four per person, we can guarantee that they won’t last long.
Escape from work week chaos by transporting yourself to the sun-drenched shores of the Pacific with Metita’s new Hibiscus Hour offering. Make for Michael Meredith’s much-loved SkyCity-based eatery between 3-6pm daily, and you’ll be met with a refreshing and undeniably tasty Hibiscus & Lemon Daiquiri made with Fijian Bati rum, served alongside (and complimented beautifully by) a fresh, natural oyster with hibiscus vinegar and lemon oil — available for a modest $25.
Chef Sid Sahrawat’s award-winning SkyCity venue, Cassia, has a lunch special on offer at present, featuring some of the stalwart chef’s most-loved dishes. The Prix Fixe (multi-course) Lunch features a starter and main for a modest $39 per person, with the option to add on sides, desserts and, of course, drinks — all at great prices. Start with a Tandoori Chicken Taco, before moving on to the utterly delicious Lamb Seekh or Market Fish, or opt for the Pani Puri followed by the Mixed Mushroom with green chilli cream or the Tandoori Chicken with madras sauce. Here, there’s something for everyone. Parking at SkyCity is free when dining, too.
Undeniably one of the best spots in the city for a grab-and-go lunch, Lebanese Grocer has fast-solidified itself as a much-loved institution since opening its doors early last year — so consistently delicious is the contemporary Lebanese offering. Now, the Pitt Street eatery has unveiled an extension to its laid-back space, adding a casual courtyard for diners to take repose and enjoy the many, many delights on offer, from mouthwatering shawarma to falafel, salads, Harra fries and all manner of tasty dips.
Britomart go-to, The Chamberlain, is a more than perfect spot to park up in the middle of the week for a hearty, delicious bite and a crisp drink, and the gastropub’s new mid-week special makes it all the more appealing to do just that. On Wednesday from 4pm, ravenous city-siders will find a refreshing pint and an irresistible chicken parmigiana for a modest $25.
Kicking off this week and running for the whole month of May, Soul is bringing back its effervescent 600 Reasons celebration with 31 days of excitement and covetable treats. With epic surprises up for grabs (including a luxurious trip for two to New Caledonia) Soul Bar & Bistro is giving us one (or 600, really) reasons to book a coveted table. Trust us when we say that this is a month-long event you don’t want to miss.
At SPQR’s ivy adorned outpost this month, you’ll find an exceptional (and delectable) deal, running across both lunch and dinner. Choose from a tasty pasta dish (the spaghetti with Cloudy Bay clam is our pick, but the burnt butter, sage and roast pumpkin gnocci comes in a close second) plus a glass of Pasqua pinot gris or montepulciano for a modest $42 — the perfect match, if you ask us.
Come Thursday May 23rd, Non Solo Pizza is the place to be as the Parnell favourite hosts a lavish Italian long lunch, commemorating 20 years of Yvonne Bennetti in association with Orsini Fine Jewellery. Promising an afternoon of style, and, of course, exceptional Italian fare, the event sees guests treated to a flute of Billecart-Salmon Brut Reserve, a three-course lunch, and and opportunity to preview the latest ranges by Yvonne Bennetti, beautifully complemented by exquisite Orsini Fine Jewellery. All guests will also receive a Yvonne Bennetti voucher and have the chance to take home fabulous prizes, plus, a donation to the GRACI Foundation included with each ticket.
It’s no secret that, when dining with kids, us parents have to plan carefully and pick their destination wisely. But luckily, at Commercial Bay’s vibrant dining precinct, kids are not only welcome, their presence is encouraged — so much so, that at both Poni and Gemmi, their meals are on the house. From Poni’s epic bento boxes packed with dumplings, edamame, and fried chicken to Gemmi’s mouthwatering pasta, you’re guaranteed a tasty time for the whole family at Commercial Bay.
Somm’s Carrara Wagyu Sirloin paired with Church Road’s TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
Celebrate Somm’s Guest in Residence series with a special set menu created with Church Road’s prestigious TOM wine in mind. Here, amongst a month-long line-up of exclusive happenings, you’ll find a perfect pairing on the menu. A glass of 2019 Church Road TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (from the cellar) is served with a delectable Carrara Wagyu sirloin with Hawke’s Bay jus, chimichurri, shoestring fries, and rosemary salt, which beyond being delicious, presents a unique opportunity to try a wine that is seldom available by the glass. The Guest in Residence set menu is $75pp and is available for the month of May.
Down South? We can attest to the fact that a simple stroll through Ayrburn’s surrounds are reason enough to plan a visit, and the world-class eateries only add to it’s draw. But, perhaps lesser known to non-locals, is the precinct’s vibrant events roster, which is jam-packed with unmissable goings-on this autumn (and beyond). ‘Bubbly Brunch Saturdays’ is an uproarious weekly shindig not to be missed, where the bubbles are flowing, the brunch banquet is exquisite, cocktails are boundless, and donning your best wares is encouraged.
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