BAR MAGDA'S NOEL’S CHARCOAL STEAK

Celebrate Dry July with a winter feast worth toasting to

This July, Bar Magda — one of the city’s most exciting kitchens, invites you to skip the booze but still dial up the indulgence, with a Dry July-inspired winter feast that is worth venturing out in the cold for.

Running Wednesday to Friday throughout the month, this month-long event is a celebration of seasonal generosity and culinary finesse — a $88pp shared menu for groups of two to six, paired with two beautifully crafted mocktails (though yes, wine and spirits are still available, if desired).

To start, smoky BBQ beef tacos set the tone — rich, tender, and full of Magda’s quinessential depth. From there, it’s a journey through land and sea: a crisp lumpia of crab and prawn, and a boldly inventive kikiam pairing pāua and squid — both delivering an abundance of flavour and texture in equal measure.

The main event is a show-stopping charcoal steak with soy butter — the very same dish crowned one of Auckland’s Top 100 Iconic Eats for 2025. It’s served alongside roasted artichokes with parsley sauce and winter truffle.

Bar Magda’s Pineapple & green mango shrub Mocktail

But this isn’t just a menu for Dry July devotees — it’s an experience that proves you don’t need a glass of red to feel celebratory. With thoughtfully composed mocktails leading the drinks list and three of the restaurant’s brand-new winter dishes making their debut, consider this your excuse to get out and about this month and enjoy a deliciously guilt-free evening that doesn’t scrimp on indulgence.

barmagda.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Heading abroad? Level up your travel attire with these chic yet comfortable looks

In our humble opinion, a holiday starts when you arrive at the airport, so start how you mean to go on and dress the part from the get-go. While no one wants to board a plane in an uncomfortable ensemble, there are plenty of ways to look chic without forgoing comfort, and we’ve rounded up a few looks that deliver on both fronts.

From tailored co-ords to layered looks and the classic leggings and oversized jacket, this curated edit will see you arriving at your destination in style.

01. Business Casual

LORO PIANA Genny linen blazer from Net-A-Porter
LORO PIANA Nyack linen wide-leg pants from Net-A-Porter
Guest In Residence cashmere polo shirt from Farfetch

02. Sports Luxe

Vintage bomber from Thrifted
New Balance 9060 “Sea Salt/Moonbeam” sneakers from Farfetch
Horizon 50 suitcase from Louis Vuitton

03. Casual Chic

Triomphe Baseball Cap from Celine
Evans Classic Trench Coat from Camilla and Marc
Cabas Thais Tote from Celine

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Your first look at Billy’s — Ayrburn’s refined new Chinese-inspired eatery

Ayrburn — the sprawling hospitality precinct on the outskirts of Queenstown — has gone from strength to strength since opening in late 2023, continuing to add exceptional venues to its impressive oeuvre, each of which has a distinct feel and offering.

The latest eatery to join the fold is Billy’s — a refined, modern Chinese-inspired eatery that may just be the precinct’s boldest and most alluring yet. Set in a restored 19th-century homestead that was once the main residence of William and Bessie Paterson (Ayrburn’s original owners), this decadent dining destination is the final original building to be restored on the site — the final piece in Ayrburn’s heritage puzzle.

The restored 19th-century homestead

The significance of this milestone is evident in the meticulous care and attention to detail paid to every facet of Billy’s. Here, the vibe is grounded but daring. Interiors are rooted in history, yet modernised through thoughtful details, and the contemporary luxury Ayrburn has become know for shines through. Velvet banquettes, chinoiserie wallpaper, notable artworks, and rich layering collide to create a space that feels at once elevated and inviting, honouring the past while speaking to the future.

Inspired by traditional orangeries where exotic plants flourish year-round, a striking glass conservatory at the building’s rear further extends the elegant dining space and invites light into the eatery year-round, framing the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. A smattering of outdoor tables extend beyond — sure to be some of the most covetable seats in the precinct come summertime.

Billy’s glass conservatory

On the food front, the choice to make Billy’s a Chinese-inspired eatery was a considered one. Once home to gold miners in at mid-to-late 1800s, Arrowtown and Ayrburn’s surrounding landscape was home to a host of Chinese immigrants who played a pivotal role in the Otago gold rush, and Billy’s is a considered nod to this moment in time.

Enjoy a raft of Chinese-inspired dishes

As such, Executive Chef Richard Highnam and his team have developed a menu that reflects this heritage while embracing a modern sensibility. You’ll find both refined takes on the classics (think bang bang chicken, sweet and sour pork, and kung pao chicken), alongside more contemporary and creative additions — from crayfish mantou with XO sauce to fiery grain-fed beef hot pot and Southern Ocean toothfish with black bean and shaoxing emulsion.

If you’re dining with a group, the refined ‘Billy’s Banquet’ is the only way to go, leaving the selection up to the chefs so all that’s left to do is sit back and enjoy the spread.

Billy’s Har Gow Steamed Prawn Truffle Dumplings

Dumplings are unsurprisingly a highlight, with options like har gow prawn truffle, wagyu beef siu mai, and black crystal squid and crab — cooked to perfection and served with traditional accompaniments to complete the experience.

Billy’s decadent signature offering ‘A Bump with Billy’

There’s also a decadent signature offering which is an essential order for anyone visiting. Dubbed ‘A Bump with Billy’ this perfect pairing incorporates a 30ml pour of the venue’s signature ‘Infinite Wisdom’ cocktail, and a bump of Imperial Oscietra Caviar — sure to inspire indulgence and elevate every occasion.

There will, of course, also be a robust selection of Ayrburn wines on the menu, including the bespoke ‘Billy’s’ chardonnay and the exclusive ‘Homestead’ pinot noir, as well as a host of curated tipples to accompany the exceptional fare on offer.

Ayrburn ‘Billy’s’ Chardonnay

The latest jewel in Ayrburn’s culinary crown, Billy’s lends itself to occasions of any and every nature — from an intimate lunch shared with family to a raucous evening with friends, and everything in between. Our table is booked, is yours?

Opening hours:
Wednesday, 5pm until midnight
Thursday — Sunday, 11:30am until midnight

ayrburn.com/billys

Billy's

Ayrburn,
Ayr Avenue
Arrowtown
New Zealand

Gastronomy

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Hélène & Jeanne Karpov

We sit down with Hélène and Jeanne Karpov — the artists preserving authentic craftsmanship

In the world of luxury design, the mastery of technique and the art of storytelling converge in a profound way. For Hélène and Jeanne Karpov, a dynamic sister duo whose shared passion for gouaché painting has defined their careers, the art of jewellery illustration is more than simply a profession; it’s a living tradition — one that draws on centuries of craftsmanship and requires deep personal devotion.

The Karpov twins, who are known as ‘gouachers’ — a term they proudly adopt from their native France — have found their calling at the intersection of high jewellery and fine watchmaking. Through their unique and complementary skill sets, they have created exquisite pieces for some of the most prestigious luxury houses in the world, while also preserving and advancing a rare artistic technique that holds a connective power.

Their work is an intricate dance between design and artistry — a delicate balance that requires both precision and imagination. At the core of their creative process is their ability to envision an item of jewellery — from its proportions and volumes to the materials and stones that bring it to life. 

In one respect, this involves rigorous research and design, considering every detail that will ultimately define the essence of a piece. The other aspect sees the sisters focus on what can only be described as a meticulous visual representation — creating hand-painted illustrations using gouaché that serve not only as technical references, but as art in their own right. “It’s a process of research and balance, blending creativity, technical expertise, and aesthetics,” Jeanne reflects. “We produce what are called ‘jewellery gouachés’: hand-painted illustrations, at actual size, on gray paper using gouaché (an opaque watercolor pigment paint). These precise renderings serve as technical references for jewellery workshops, visual presentations for clients, and sometimes, even as standalone works of art.”

“…hand-painted illustrations, at actual size, on gray paper using gouaché. These precise renderings serve as technical references for jewellery workshops, visual presentations for clients, and sometimes, even as standalone works of art.”

These drawings, which can take from a few days to a month to complete, are often comissioned by jewellery houses to translate their creative vision into an irresistibly compelling image. “They provide us with a detailed brief: a list of materials, metal textures, and volumes,” they tell me. “When possible, we also observe the gemstones, finished pieces, or prototypes in person — to capture every reflection, every subtle hue, every unique detail. Sometimes, we work from photos of completed pieces, which we must reinterpret with precision.” This artistic gesture demands discipline, finesse, and sensitivity. It’s not just about reproduction, but about conveying the soul of a jewel — something the sisters have become completely adept at over their careers, “Creating a gouaché requires varying amounts of time, but if a gouaché can be completed in just one day today, it is thanks to twenty years of experience. Speed is not the norm; it’s the result of long-acquired expertise.”

Their journey into the world of gouaché began in childhood, where they were both encouraged by their father to draw and replicate, exploring the impact of art, while their mother nurtured their exposure to broader artistic realms like architecture, theatre, and ballet. “These worlds deeply inspired and awakened us,” they share, a sentiment that has clearly carried throughout their lives.

Having initially pursued industrial design, Hélène and Jeanne quickly found themselves at odds with the overwhelming presence of computers and digital tools in the field. Their yearning for a more tactile, hands-on approach led them to explore areas where manual skills were still revered — and it was during an exhibition in Paris that they discovered jewellery design. “It was a revelation,” Hélène says. “From that moment on, everything relied on hard work, discipline, and perseverance.”

The world of gouaché painting, particularly in the realm of jewellery and watchmaking, is one that requires years of dedication and refinement. “It’s much like calligraphy… or classical dance,” they say. “You’re not born a prima ballerina — you become one.” And so, they became masters of gouaché — a skill that is both a visual language and a lifelong pursuit of technical and artistic excellence.

“We each have our areas of expertise,” says Jeanne. “When we work for jewellery or watchmaking houses, Hélène focuses on the design phase — creating the piece, balancing volumes, choosing stones — while I am dedicated to creating the gouachés.” “It’s a real advantage to work with your twin sister,” Hélène adds. “There’s a fluidity and absolute trust that’s been essential to building our careers.” The pair also run and online platform, The Art of the Gouache, teaching others how to master the art — further preserving their craft for the future.

Across the spectrum, their work is not merely about producing beautiful designs; it’s about safeguarding and advancing the slow art of gouaché in a world that increasingly leans on digital tools. “Gouaché painting is an art deeply rooted in the real, one that reconnects us to slowness, patience, and the present moment,” Jeanne explains. “It’s tangible: every gesture leaves an immediate, visible mark. You see the results layer by layer. In a world that moves fast, painting in gouaché becomes almost a gentle form of resistance.”

The act of creating with gouaché is both a meditative and an intellectual challenge. For Hélène and Jeanne, it is the constant desire to improve and refine their technique that drives them forward. “Each gouaché is a pursuit of excellence,” they share. “Gouaché teaches you to see: to observe materials, to appreciate the beauty of the real and the authentic.”

In a world where creativity is often rushed, Hélène and Jeanne’s work remains a powerful testament to the beauty of slow artistry. It is a celebration of patience, precision, and the irreplaceable value of human touch — an art that will continue to inspire awe for generations to come.

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Left: Three cheese pizza, cauliflower, truffle oil. Right: N’duja caramel, confit potato, mozzarella, oregano

This weekend, we recommend indulging in Andiamo’s delectable new pizzas

As beloved for its delicious food as it is for its coveted outdoor tables (thoroughly heated across the cooler months), Andiamo is the perfect place to while away a leisurely few hours in culinary bliss. And now, the stalwart eatery is giving us the perfect excuse to lock in a long lunch or cosy dinner, introducing two decidedly decadent new pizzas that are the ultimate salve for the inclement weather.

Three cheese pizza, cauliflower, truffle oil

As part of the eatery’s dedicated truffle-centric menu, a wildly tasty three cheese pizza has been added to fold, topped with cauliflower and finished with truffle oil. Perfect when paired with a buttery chardonnay or robust glass of red.

N’duja caramel, confit potato, mozzarella, oregano

And, further enticing you to make a booking, a delicious, seasonally-apt number has also been added to the eatery’s offering, pairing n’duja caramel with confit potato, mozzarella, and oregano. Simply sublime.

andiamoeatery.co.nz

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Melatonin is soon to be sold over-the-counter in NZ, but what’s the deal with this so-called sleep supporter?

Farewell, prescription pad. From later this year New Zealanders will be able to stroll into any pharmacy and buy melatonin, no GP visit required. Medsafe’s re‑classification lets pharmacists supply immediate‑release tablets up to 5 mg (or 3 mg modified‑release) in ten‑day or month‑long packs for jet lag and primary insomnia — a quietly revolutionary shift for many.

For the uninitiated, melatonin itself is essentially dusk in molecular form — a hormone the pineal gland secretes when light recedes. Swallowed, it slips through the blood–brain barrier and taps the body’s master clock, lowering core temperature, easing blood pressure, and cueing cortisol to drop so — in theory — eyelids grow heavy. Because it synchronises rather than sedates, next‑day grogginess is uncommon and serious side‑effects remain rare.

But the question on everyone’s lips is does it actually work? A 2024 systematic review found about 4 mg taken three hours before bed trimmed sleep‑onset by roughly ten minutes and nudged total slumber upward. Benefits bloom for circadian‑rhythm glitches — trials show melatonin can advance bedtime by up to 40 minutes in those struggling with delayed‑sleep‑phase disorder, and for those lucky enough to be Europe-bound this winter, it’s also been proven to help long‑haul travellers resynchronise faster.

Melatonin isn’t a silver bullet, but used thoughtfully it can support the descent into sleep — and, luckily, it’s now set to be as close as your local chemist. As always, timing and dosage matter, so chat with your pharmacist before you dim the lights for a restorative rest.

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Megan Stalter as Jessica in Lena Dunham’s new series 'Too Much'

Everything we know so far about Lena Dunham’s return to TV with Too Much

More than 10 years after changing the face of how women are depicted on TV in her hit series Girls, Lena Dunham is back with something new — although this time she’s spending far more time behind the camera than in front of it. As the writer / actress has become known for, Lena Dunham’s new Netflix series Too Much — set for release next week, on July 10th — is loosely based on her own experiences. Here’s what you need to know:

What’s the Plot?

Set in London, the series charts a thirty-something New Yorker’s recent move following a tough breakup as she sets out to start afresh somewhere new. While the city itself isn’t exactly what she had imagined, she soon meets (and subsequently falls for) Felix — a laid-back musician who is workaholic, over-thinker Jessica’s anthesis.

Spanning 10 episodes, the show charts Jessica (played by Megan Statler of Hacks fame) and Felix’s (played by The White Lotus’ Will Sharpe) courtship, which is anything but straightforward. Both want to make it work, but find themselves burdened and held back by the past in ways it’s not clear whether they’ll be able to reconcile. Ultimately, the show is a refreshing real depiction of falling in love, and fans of Girls will find Dunham’s familiar deftness in social critique a comfort, despite the show’s many ups and downs.

Left: Felix (Will Sharpe) right: Jessica (Megan Stalter)

Who’s in the Cast?

Outside of protagonists Jessica (Megan Statler) and Felix (Will Sharpe), the show features some big namers. Fleabag’s ‘Hot Priest’ (Andrew Scott) makes a welcome appearance, alongside Jessica Alba, Emily Ratajkowski, Richard E. Grant, Stephen Fry, Rhea Perlman, Kit Harington, Andrew Rannells, Jennifer Saunders, and Marnie’s mother from Girls, Rita Wilson. Michael Zegen stars as Jessica’s ex, and Dunham herself does make an appearance in front of the camera, but you’ll have to wait and see how that plays out.

Polly (Emily Ratajkowski)

Watch the Trailer:

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Nonoto barstools by Läufer + Keichel for Zeitraum, Luna plate by Rina Menardi from ECC

Step inside an elegantly transformed Grey Lynn residence

Architecture — Leuschke Kahn Architects
Interior Design — Venia Design
Photography — Sam Hartnett

A delicate balance between heritage charm and contemporary elegance defines this exquisitely transformed Grey Lynn residence — redesigned by Venia Design to embrace its historic roots while seamlessly integrating modern comforts, creating a harmonious family sanctuary.

Perched high atop a light-filled site in Auckland’s central suburbs, this historic villa plays to its stunning surrounds, maximising views while sitting as a refined retreat perfectly befitting the demands of family life. Enveloped by lush greenery and overlooking a verdant park, with fresh morning light filtering in from the east and dappled evening light flooding the back, Venia Design imagined the home’s interiors to be sympathetic to the light’s path, enhancing its impact at every turn. 

From the outset, the goal was to create a home that was both functional and striking, where children could play freely and adults could entertain with ease. As such, open-plan living areas were imagined to flow seamlessly into exterior spaces, with the light-filled, airy kitchen opening up to a stunning stone terrace and pool — a space which lends itself as easily to entertaining as it does daily family life.

Nonoto barstools by Läufer + Keichel for Zeitraum, Luna plate by Rina Menardi from ECC

Where the exterior of the home had to adhere to strict heritage guidelines to preserve its historical facade — elegantly transformed by Leuschke Kahn Architects, the interiors were able to be completely reimagined, breathing new life into the family home. High ceilings and open family spaces were achieved by reworking the internal structure, using level changes to define different zones within the home. Infusing the space with a sense of warmth and openness, hallways were designed to borrow light from adjacent rooms, while main living areas were crafted to gather and hold natural light. Considering light in a different way, bedrooms were furnished with soft hues to mitigate the coolness of evening shadows. 

Ivy Pendant 8 by CTO Lighting from ECC, Saarinen conference chair by Eero Saarinen for Knoll from Studio Italia
The Girl Stands Tall sculpture by Paul Dibble from Gow Langsford Gallery

Venia Design was focused on creating a calm, considered environment that is simple, elegant, and timeless — a feat achieved through the use of a thoughtful material palette, carefully conceived spatial layout, and luxurious yet practical furnishings. Statuario stone brings an unexpected richness to kitchen cabinetry, which features clean lines that blend contemporary and traditional villa aesthetics, while elsewhere, dark cabinetry accents add depth without overwhelming the space.

He Kiwi Kāwhatawhata artwork by Fiona Pardington from Starkwhite, The Girl Stands Tall sculpture by Paul Dibble from Gow Langsford Gallery, Hamilton sofa by Rodolfo Dordoni for Minotti from ECC
Torii armchair by Nendo for Minotti, Bronze Slice mirror tray by Dawn Sweitzer for Ethnicraft both from ECC
Redondo Armchair by Patricia Urquiola From Matisse

Furnishings were chosen to echo the prevailing sense of timeless elegance. Minotti sofas, with their strong lines, complement the Italian marble, while the front room features playful Redondo swivel chairs, inspiring repose. Custom mohair rugs soften rustic wide-board floors, while in the dining area, the home’s hub of entertaining, a soft oval table paired with Saarinen chairs invites connection. 

Ultimately, this thoughtfully reimagined Auckland-based residence sits at the intersection of heritage charm and modern functionality, creating a charming sanctuary perfectly suited to the changing tides of family life. 

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Pastrami & Rye

Denizen’s definitive guide to the best sandwiches in town

While one of the most humble and homely eats around, there’s no denying there’s an art to the perfect sandwich. From the bread-to-filling ratio, to condiments and accoutrements, there’s plenty to consider when it comes to crafting a tasty sammie. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed down the best places in Auckland to find an excellent sando, and which signature creations are worth sinking your teeth into. 

Gloria’s Spicy Tonno Sandwich

Gloria’s

It would be remiss not to make mention of Gloria’s, the Commercial Bay-based deli that hasn’t stopped humming since opening. Of course, we should expect such popularity from the clever team behind the scenes. Gloria’s is a more pared-back offering that keeps homely, delicious foods at its core — and its crown jewel is a delightful daily rotation of fresh, seasonal sandwiches. The deli meats sandwich here is unparalleled if you can get your hands on one, and the tuna iteration may just be the best in town.

Little French Cafe’s Big Daddy Sandwich

Little French Cafe

This neighbourhood gem, with outposts in both Point Chevalier and Mount Albert, is best known for its crispy baguettes and buttery rolls that are packed to the brim with tasty fillings. Little French Cafe favourites include the ​​sirloin steak baguette, which includes perfectly cooked sirloin steak from Grey Lynn Butchers, caramelised onions, rocket and a house-made black pepper sauce nestled in the generous roll. Other variations include the ultimate breakfast bap with free-range eggs, organic bacon and house-made basil aioli and the chicken baguette with delicious free-range smoked chicken and bacon with avocado and slow-roasted capsicum. 

Federal Delicatessen’s Chicken Salad Sandwich

Federal Delicatessen

No one can dispute The Fed’s ability to turn out a damn good sandwich. The SkyCity institution’s chicken salad sandwich has reached cult status — for both its consistency and its undeniable deliciousness. Composed of a magical chicken-mayo mixture, crunchy iceberg lettuce and crispy bits of chicken skin for good measure, this sandwich famously comes with gravy on the side for dipping. Available from lunch until late, this sandwich is here to satisfy cravings at all hours. 

Beau Deli’s Reuben Sandwich

Beau Deli

No one does deli-style decadence quite like Beau Deli. Tucked away in Three Lamps, this local favourite has built a loyal following — and for good reason. Their Reuben is a standout: rich, messy, and unapologetically satisfying. Not to be outshone, the roast pumpkin and haloumi number on pillowy, fresh-baked focaccia is also a triumph. Whatever your taste or proclivity, Beau delivers deli classics with serious flavour.

Knead on Benson

Knead on Benson may be known for its flaky pastries and stellar coffee, but their sandwiches deserve a spotlight of their own. The chicken iteration is a fail-safe, pairing roast chicken tossed in a creamy, herby mayo, with crisp cos lettuce and a touch of pickle tang, between slices of their signature fresh-baked sourdough. It’s simple, yes — but executed with the kind of care that makes you come back for it again (and again).

Daily Bread’s new beef brisket sandwich

Daily Bread

Daily Bread is no slouch when it comes to sourdough, with a number of locations around town to keep fans of its loaves, pastries and pies well-fed. Fittingly, its sandwiches are in just as high demand, with fresh baguettes, hot milk bun sandwiches, sourdough toasties and ciabatta sammies all up for grabs. While offerings differ at each site, you’ll often find the likes of egg, pickle and chive and ham, cheese and mustard baguettes, and sourdough sammies with chicken & mayo, spiced roast beef with chimichurri, and a delightful looking beef brisket newcomer that is worth a trip alone.

Florets cheese toastie

Florets

Made using this Grey Lynn bakery’s famous, freshly-made loaves, the sandwiches and toasties at Florets are tasty and wholesome. Here, you’ll find fillings like danbo and housemade green apple relish, or pickled egg with organic greens, or even fennel salami with whipped cannellini bean, giardiniera, and parsley. These are made even better when enjoyed in Floret’s sun-filled upstairs room with a perfectly-made coffee and one (or two) of the housemade cookies.

Caffetteria Allpress

While they may look uncomplicated, one bite of the delectable sandwiches from the Allpress Caffetteria on Drake Street will quickly teach you not to judge a book by its cover. Some of the fillings change on a daily basis but the tuna, egg and mayo, along with the Reuben, are the staples we’ve come to rely on at lunchtime. The fillings in the vegetarian sandwiches change seasonally, but when you see the pumpkin with pecorino cheese and walnut, don’t think twice before ordering.

Amano

Amano Bakery

Tucked alongside the popular all-day restaurant, Amano, is its dedicated bakery, where hungry downtown punters have long turned for utterly delicious and satiating morning juices, lunchtime snacks, afternoon sweet treats and more. But it’s the sandwich offering here that has made Amano one of our favourite lunch drop-ins. Offering a range of freshly-made rolls filled with succulent meats and vegetarian delights (whatever your tastes require), Amano Bakery’s sammies are always tasty, always fulfilling and some of the very best in town.

Oji Sushi

At Oji Sushi, you’ll find a distinctly Japanese take on classic sandos, where an array of tasty fillings are nestled between two slices of soft, fluffy milk bread called shokupan. Honestly, few places do it better than Oji, where the sando offering includes Japanese egg with spring onion and aji Amarillo and katsu chicken with shredded iceberg and bulldog sauce. Conveniently found in the heart of Commercial Bay, this is the ideal spot for those seeking a workday lunch. 

Edie’s Wine Bar’s Chicken Sandwich

Edie’s Wine Bar

Edie’s may be a wine bar first and foremost, but believe us when we say they also turn out a damn good sammie come lunchtime. The chicken baguette has fast-become one of our go-tos, made with fresh roast chicken and tucked into a warm, house-made baguette. It’s the kind of simple, perfectly executed bite that makes you realise just how good a simple sando can be.

Pastrami & Rye’s Patty Melt

Pastrami & Rye

Ellerslie deli and sandwich house Pastrami & Rye has been on our radar since it opened, serving up truly drool-worthy sandwiches since 2017. Inspired by the bustling delis of New York City, Pastrami & Rye proudly cures its own meats and churns out homemade preserves and pickles. It’s tough to pick just one sandwich from its star-studded line-up, but the Cuban, a swoon-worthy creation with pork, ham, pickles, mustard and melty cheese, is a hard one to beat.

Fort Greene

The folks at Fort Greene make some of the best loaves in town, so it’s no surprise they’re also responsible for some of the city’s most impressive sandwiches. Its recognisable Karangahape Road storefront (painted a pleasing shade of green) is the ideal place to settle in for a lunchtime sandwich and grab a loaf of sourdough to go. While The Fish One sandwich has become something of an icon, boasting homemade kahawai fish fingers, mushy peas and tartare sauce, our other favourites are The Reuben, with salt-beef brisket, homemade sauerkraut, Russian dressing, mustard, pickles & Swiss cheese on Fort Greene New York rye and the Kimchi Grilled Cheese, boasting a mix of four cheeses, grilled, with homemade kimchi on Fort Greene’s delicious sourdough.

Fitzroy Deli’s Chicken schnitty sandwich

Fitzroy Deli

Fitzroy Deli has quietly mastered the art of the sandwich. Tucked in the heart of the city, this city-sider favourite turns out generous, flavour-packed creations that strike the perfect balance between comfort and creativity. Whether it’s a classic combo done right or a rotating special with serious flair, every sandwich is built on quality ingredients and made with obvious care. No frills, no shortcuts — just damn good sandwiches.

Cazador Deli

Opening during lockdown adjacent to their stalwart eatery on Dominion Road, Cazador Deli — much like the eatery itself, stands out for its incredible game offering. Unsurprising, then, that the deli also knows a thing or two about the makings of an epic sandwich. The fillings in the eatery’s sammies are ever-changing, and there are also a number of epic toasties to satisfy your cravings.

Deli di Bossi

It would be remiss of us to leave out the deli in the CBD slinging Italian classics — Deli di Bossi. The eatery’s Mortadella Sandwich will have your mouth watering, made with mortadella italiana and mozzarella in freshly baked bread, toasted to crispy perfection, but there are countless authentic iterations that have coming through the doors time and time again. The Pastrami — a simple but stunning mix of pastrami, pickles, provolone, and mustard is a perfect rendition of the classic, while, for the vegetarians amongst us, Deli di Bossi’s Fungo — with mushroom and mozzarella, is a flavourful delight.

Hello Beasty’s Katso Sando

Hello Beasty

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, there’s one dish that we can’t go past ordering on every visit — the Katsu Sando. Here, crumbed chicken thigh is paired with shredded white cabbage, kewpie mayo, Golden curry sauce, toasted white bread, culminating in one of the best sandos in town.

Bodega’s Sweet and spicy Korean pork sandwich

Bodega

Having only opened its doors last July, Bodega has fast-become one of the city’s most-loved sandwich purveyors, slinging New York deli-inspired, made-to-order sandwiches with a decidedly American slant.  As far as flavours go, The vodka chicken is a favourite, with chicken cutlets, vodka sauce, mozzarella, and green sauce, served in a freshly-baked roll. Sublime.

Farro’s Brisket & Pickle Melt

Farro Commercial Bay

Farro’s Commercial Bay outpost offers sandwiches that blend fresh, market flavours with fast-casual ease. Think crisp, artisan bread filled with thoughtful, high-quality ingredients — whether it’s a grilled veggie special, a sliced deli classic, or a seasonal standout. Each bite is satisfying, and made with the kind of care you’d expect from a top foodie hub. Perfect fuel for a day in the city — or a quick, delicious lunch break.

Herne Bay Foodstore

Herne Bay Foodstore has long-been a go-to for locals, so tasty, satisfying, and consistent is the fare, and the sandwiches don’t deviate. Their line-up is all about fresh, flavourful ingredients — think crusty breads layered with classic meats and cheeses, seasonal veggies, and comfort food-centric creations. A solid go‑to whenever you’re after a top-tier deli bite.

Gastronomy

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Elevate your everyday essentials with this 90s-inspired layered T-shirt trend

The layered T-shirt trend is a simple yet impactful way to upgrade and elevate your casual wardrobe. By pairing two tees — usually contrasting in colour, fit, or length — you add depth, texture, and visual interest to any outfit. It’s versatile, easy to style, and perfect for transitioning between seasons.

Try a longer layer either under or over a boxy tee, or mix neutral tones to create subtle contrast. The key is balance — let the layers stand out while keeping the rest of your look minimal. Cosy, comfortable, and effortlessly cool, this trend proves that basics can be anything but boring.

Shop The Edit

Ribbed jersey tank top from Miu Miu
Long-sleeved cotton jersey T-shirt from Prada
Jil Sander set of three cotton tops from Farfetch
Jil Sander layered tank top from Farfetch
Set of three Jersey T-shirts from Miu Miu
Cotton jersey T-shirt from Prada
Set of three jersey t-shirts from Miu Miu
Acne Studios Layered T-shirt from Farfetch

Coveted

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Embrace the season — rain, hail, or shine — with our edit of the chic coats that will see you through