Auckland, for a brief window, is showing off. And we are here for it. Endless sunshine and clear skies are the perfect antidote to doom and gloom, and to getting out to celebrate life.
So, while the Côte d’Azur vacation may still be a few months, or even a lifetime away, fear not, as we have a suitable alternative. Secure yourself at a table at Westhaven’s First Mates, Last Laugh, and order the seafood tower. Arguably, the grandest tower in town, and sure to rival the one served at the iconic Club 55, with a half crayfish lording over oysters, prawns, sashimi, tuna taquitos, Szechuan pepper squid and gurnard goujons. This is an order that lands with confidence, knowing it is the best-looking thing in the room. Nearby tables look over with remorse and regret, immediately changing their own order.
The decadent theatrics don’t stop here, particularly if you’re faintly competitive. Because we’re to celebrate the sunshine and good times after all. And so one must also order continuous rounds of their Spicy Pineapple Margarita, just to assert your gastronomic prowess. Tequila, coconut, pineapple, chilli, kaffir lime. Bright, sharp, and just reckless enough to seal the deal.
Judith Tabron’s marina-side playground has become renowned for this knack of knowing just when to serve, just what we all need. This is Auckland, perfectly presented at its very best. With boats bobbing, the low sun shimmering across the water, and the vibrancy of being among people just like you, who’ve made very good life choices, it makes for a very good time.
Ignoring this call to honour your city in such an appropriate manner, as it shines brightly, could be considered treasonous, but let’s leave politics off the table for now. Act quickly, we all know this moment in time is fleeting, life is not improved by being a bore. Life rewards those who show up at the right place just at the right time.
