Anne Hathaway in Gucci.

All the best fashion from the Cannes red carpet

Cannes Film Festival is as much about what the movies stars are wearing on the red carpet as it is about their performances. As such, the festival has evolved to a place where fashion is the focus, seeing starlets and A-listers alike flexing their sartorial muscles and sauntering into screenings dripping in some of the most exquisite and rare jewellery ever made.

This year’s event has been no different, with a line-up of lauded brands and jewellery maisons sending their most eye-catching designs down the carpet to sparkle in the Côte d’Azure sun. From Bella Hadid’s showstopping Gianni Versace revival to Anne Hathaway’s Bulgari moment, these are some of the fashion and jewellery looks we have loved from this year’s Cannes.

Bella Hadid in Versace.
Anne Hathaway in Armani Privé and Bulgari jewellery.
Sharon Stone in Dolce & Gabanna.
Cindy Bruna in Giambattista Valli.
Naomi Campbell in Valentino and Bulgari jewellery, Kaia Gerber in Celine.
Sara Sampaio in custom Pinko.
Austin Butler in Celine and Cartier Jewellery. Photo by Greg Williamson.
Caro Daur in Valentino and Tiffany & Co. jewellery, Elsa Hosk in Valentino.
Tina Kunakey in Valentino, Julia Roberts in Louis Vuitton and Chopard jewellery.
Julianne Moore in Bottega Veneta and Bulgari jewellery.
Olivia de Jonge in Gucci & Bulgari jewellery. Photo by Greg Williamson.
Stella Maxwell in Boss, Sheila Atim in Prada.
Deepika Padukone in Louis Vuitton.
Viola Davis in Alexander McQueen, Jennifer Connelly in Louis Vuitton.
Candice Swanepoel in Boss.
Elsa Hosk in Valentino, Olivia Culpo in Saint Laurent.
Cynthia Erivo in Louis Vuitton.
Naomi Campbell.
Joan Smalls in Dundas, Ashley Graham in Christian Siriano.
Nina Dobrev in Mônot.
Winnie Harlow.
Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton.
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Rebecca Hall.

Letitia Wright in Fendi.
Diane Kruger in Oscar De La Renta, Bella Hadid.

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Apparatus Studio Horsehair Sconce.
Apparatus Studio Horsehair Sconce.
Apparatus Studio Horsehair Sconce.
Apparatus Studio Horsehair Sconce.

Here’s why this wall light is on everyone’s wishlist

Regardless of how carefully curated a space is, without the right lighting, it will fall flat every time. And when we talk about lighting, we mean a combination of functional lights and those that make a strong design statement — the latter arguably the most important element in bringing a space together to feel complete.

It’s difficult to discuss design-led lighting without deferring to Apparatus Studio. This interdisciplinary studio, based in New York, has garnered a serious following for the way its pieces explore the relationship between lighting, furniture and objects. A showcase of expert craftsmanship and creativity, Apparatus’ lights promise to be the eye-catching anchors in any space, each one meticulously designed to feel like a piece of art in its own right — where perfect forms are paired with imperfect finishes to look like nothing you’ve seen before.

Toorak Residence by Hecker Guthrie. Photo by Shannon McGrath.

The Horsehair Sconce exemplifies Apparatus’ unique approach. Designed by Gabriel Hendifar, this elongated wall light will deliver depth and intrigue to any interior. A robust study of material, here, wefts of horsehair are melded with brass and etched glass to become something that not only offers gentle illumination, but that actually feels more worthy of a wall in a gallery, or a museum.

From left: Domain House by Watts Studio, photos by Sharyn Cairns; Watch Hill House by Studio Giancarlo Valle, photo by Stephen Kent Johnson.

Finished and assembled by hand in Apparatus’ factory in Brooklyn, New York, the Horsehair Sconce has become globally sought-after — chosen by interior designers and clients seeking textural intrigue in their spaces, and who know the importance of lighting as a crucial finishing touch.

Lucky for us then, that this exceptional light is available locally through the lighting maestros at ECC. Among the range of Apparatus Studio’s pieces on offer at ECC, the Horsehair Sconce stands apart, as much for its functionality as for its conversation-starting form.

ECC

39 Nugent Street,
Grafton, Auckland

www.ecc.co.nz

Design

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Soul Bar & Bistro's Wagyu oxtail raviolo.

Three dishes at Soul Bar & Bistro you need to be eating now

Soul Bar & Bistro is a stalwart for a reason. Over the years it has mastered the art of balance on its menu, where longstanding favourites sit alongside a selection of seasonally-rotating dishes that harness the produce of the moment — offering a culinary experience that always keeps us coming back for more.

Given the recent change in seasons, a raft of delicious new dishes have landed on Soul’s menu. So if you haven’t been down in a while or are yet to step outside your comfort zone of classic mac and cheese (we get it), we strongly suggest booking a table and delving into the new offering. These are the dishes to be eating right now.

Wagyu oxtail raviolo.

Wagyu oxtail raviolo
Served with celeriac and pickled onion gremolata, this satiating dish is packed with rich, warming flavours that complement the perfectly-filled piece of al dente pasta.

Brussels sprout caesar salad.

Brussels sprout caesar salad
It’s a Caesar salad but not as you know it. Soul’s more wintery take on this classic dish harnesses all the flavours you might expect, but unexpectedly uses Brussels sprouts as the vehicle. Genius.

Lime semifreddo.

Lime semifreddo
Even if you don’t sport a serious sweet tooth, this semifreddo is the perfect way to wrap up any meal. Here, lime is matched with feijoa, mandarin curd and buttermilk granita to offer a dessert that is tart, refreshing and sweet but not overwhelming.

Gastronomy

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Helping us end any week on a high note, Bivacco’s Sunday Feast isn’t to be missed
Valentino Fall 22.
From left: Saint Laurent Fall 22, Loewe Fall 22, Prada Fall 22.
Christian Dior Fall 22.

Runway report: We round up the Fall/Winter ’22 trends to know

There was a solemnity that descended on the fashion set as they hit the streets of New York, London, Milan and Paris for the Fall 2022 season. After all, it was absurd to be chatting about clothes with war breaking out only a few countries away. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia hung over the shows like a fog, with some designers choosing a business-as-usual approach and others addressing it directly (see: Georgio Armani’s eerily silent show in Milan). Although none could have done it as poignantly as Demna did at Balenciaga — the designer pivoting his dramatic show from a climate change allegory to an act of defiance, with every seat surrounding the glass rotunda runway given its own Ukrainian flag alongside show notes that spoke to the designer’s first hand experience with war, ending with a message of love always winning.

Looking beyond its immediate geopolitical context, Fall 2022 still felt, in many ways, like it was reacting to the disruptions of the last few years. Suiting, for example, spoke to the question of whether people will ever return to the office, with new takes on tailoring at brands like Givenchy and Dior and preppy details like formal mini-skirts and neckties (here’s looking at you, Gucci) feeling distinctly at odds with the idea
of sitting behind a desk.

Clockwise from top: Louis Vuitton Fall 22, Max Mara Fall 22, Christian Dior Fall 22.

Elsewhere, Y2K nostalgia (encouraged by a pandemic-driven desire to reminisce) was responsible for a plethora of skin-baring looks at the likes of Nensi Dojaka, Coperni and Miu Miu, which bizarrely didn’t feel out of place among the season’s heavy suiting and winter coats. (So don’t pack away your summer outfits too hastily.) In a similar vein, glamorous peignoire-inspired pieces by Fendi and Bottega Veneta (among others) shimmered in all their after-dark appeal, satiating our craving for clothes that feel flirty and fanciful. Building on this idea was the sense of playfulness introduced with various fur, feather and tassel trimmings at brands like Alaïa, Alexander McQueen and Prada, lending levity to traditionally severe styles.

Speaking of severe, the Fall silhouettes were exaggerated. Think elongated bodies, strong or dropped shoulders, slouchy sleeves and cinched-in waists. There were sleek, boxy tuxedos at Saint Laurent, corsets at Versace, Christian Dior and Fendi and geometric surrealism at Loewe, but nowhere was this idea as well executed as at Louis Vuitton, where coats were perfectly oversized, hips pushed out and proportions placed at the centre of every look. 

Gucci Fall 22, Givenchy Fall 22, Bottega Veneta Fall 22.

Hemlines dropped down just as boots were rising up. Over-the-knee styles at houses like Chanel and Givenchy saw those brands putting their best foot forward as showstopping boots became the shoe of the season. Floor-dragging skirts, trousers and dresses at the likes of Saint Laurent and Burberry offered an elegance that felt effortless and uber-feminine — while faux-fur and feather trimmings put a sumptuous spin on the season’s more show-stopping pieces (think Valentino and Prada). 

Leather and denim seemed to be the textiles of the season with almost every major brand sending their own versions of leather jackets, dresses, pants or all of the above down the runway. While the proliferation of denim heralded what was undoubtedly one of the biggest trends of Fall 2022 — elevated basics. The white tank top became an unexpected breakout star, and understated singlets, T-shirts and white collared shirts were hailed as winter wardrobe must-haves, often paired with simple blue-denim jeans. If nothing else, this ascent of basics from foundational to fundamental spoke to our collective desire to dress purposefully again. Fashion at large is becoming less interested in playing into ‘trends’ and more invested in looks that truly last. And thank goodness for that. 

Clockwise from top left: Alexander McQueen Fall 22, Chanel Fall 22, Burberry Fall 22, Bottega Veneta Fall 22, Balenciaga Fall 22.

As far as accessories were concerned, handbags were doubled up and layered, offering a more chic (but possibly less practical) alternative to the single, oversized tote; while faux fur staged a fluffy takeover of bags, shoes and even hats. In fact, headwear in general really had a moment on the Fall 2022 runways. From the Gucci beret to the Burberry headband to the balaclavas at Max Mara and even the hair clips at Chanel and Versace — it would seem that forgetting to dress your head will prove a serious faux-pas this winter. 

Reminding us how fashion is bouncing back from the last few years with aplomb, the Fall 2022 runways made a case for the industry’s hearty resilience. And while we won’t solve the world’s problems with a new pair of boots or a tailored coat, maybe those things will help us to draw on the collective courage of designers who continue to create impeccable clothes despite everything, and face this changing world with confidence. 

Coveted

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Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

Here’s why Oji Sushi is the perfect lunchtime drop-in

Beloved by the lunchtime crowd for its fresh sushi, satiating bowls and tasty sandos and dumplings, Oji is a downtown favourite, with outposts in Commercial Bay and Britomart.

Having set itself apart from Auckland’s other sushi spots for its focus on locally-sourced ingredients, sustainable practices and a straightforward, no-fuss approach, Oji is the perfect place to pop into for an easy, healthy and downright delicious lunch, particularly for those who work in the city.

Now, as more and more workplaces return to office life (after an extended WFH period), Oji is adding some noteworthy new dishes to its offering. From new rice and vegetable bowls like the Sweet Bird (with sweet chilli chicken), the Belly Banger (with pork belly and tomatillo salsa), the Purple Power (with crispy Japanese eggplant) and the Big Don (with Panko-crumbed chicken) to tantalising handmade gyoza and dumplings (think prawn with crispy onion or spicy pork with spicy mayo), and signature sandos now available in two- and four-packs, Oji is making a return to the office look all the more appetising.

And if you’d rather enjoy Oji’s offering from the comfort of the office kitchen, its catering options will see sushi platters, salads and generous packs of sandos sent directly to your workplace.

Gastronomy

Meet Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits — the new wine retail destination, bar, and café you need to know
SO/ Auckland and Mt Cook Alpine Salmon have teamed up for the caviar event of the season
Helping us end any week on a high note, Bivacco’s Sunday Feast isn’t to be missed
Esse.

From casual chic to 90s revival — our highlights from Australian Fashion Week

This week, Afterpay Australian Fashion Week has seen Sydney’s most style-savvy set hit the streets in fine form. Showcasing the best in Australian fashion (alongside some recognisable names from New Zealand too) the week has served to show how the industry ‘down under’ is still thriving.

From an innovative use of New Zealand wool to an inspired take on vacation-dressing, here are some of our highlights from the AAFW Resort ’23 runways.

Effortless luxury at Esse
A brand built on the idea of timeless styles made with a focus on superior quality, Esse has made effortless luxury its calling card. Taking over the iconic Bennelong Restaurant at Sydney Opera House to showcase its new Edition No.08 collection, Esse served up a masterclass in restraint, where perfectly-proportioned tailoring met a cool oaky palette of contemporary neutrals. Alongside the ready-to-wear, Esse’s presentation highlighted an exciting collaboration the brand has undertaken with New Zealand handbag and leather goods label, Yu Mei — with every model sporting one of the brand’s elegant new bags. A partnership born from shared values (including functional luxury and high quality, regenerative materials), the sleek Yu Mei bags seen on the Esse runway offered the perfect finishing touch, and hinted at further collaborative projects to come. (Apparently the two brands are working on a bespoke colourway to be released later this year.)

Wynn Hamlyn.

Wynn Hamlyn’s Fashion Week debut
Another New Zealand name gracing Australian Fashion Week this year was Wynn Hamlyn — presenting a collection that captured the brand’s unique blend of wearable, everyday luxury with a distinctly laid-back edge. Taking us on a journey through bright neon moments, unexpected knitwear silhouettes (fast becoming a Wynn Hamlyn signature), showstopping handmade macramé pieces and grown-up tailoring, the brand offered a collection that was full of fun and finesse. One thing to note, however, was the puffer jackets. Born from Wynn Hamlyn’s relationship with Wisewool, the jackets had been created with insulated padding entirely made from unused wool (instead of the synthetic fibres or down usually used in pieces like this). Thanks to some creative sleight-of-hand, the lining of the jackets was allegedly able to be removed via a series of zips, allowing the wearer to re-fluff if necessary.

Matteau, Oroton.

Vacation vibes at Matteau and Oroton
Continuing in its quest to give us the ultimate capsule wardrobe, Matteau certainly didn’t stray from its signature elevated basics in its new collection — a chic, pared-back affair that conjured a sense of beachside vacations. Think relaxed trousers, flowing dresses and loose shirting that walked the line between undone and considered. Over at Oroton, the vacay vibes were slightly more on-the-nose, but no less enticing. From poolside-worthy prints to skin-baring vintage silhouettes and a good dose of colour, the looks at Oroton were sleek, simple and exactly what we will be throwing over a swimsuit when the weather warms up.

Bondi Born, Aje.

Colour, colour and more colour
From Bondi Born’s neon greens and lavender looks to Aje’s high-saturation to Karla Špetic’s surfer-girl pinks and blues, colour was applied courageously and generously throughout a number of the brands showing at this year’s Fashion Week. It’s a good indication of fashion’s optimism and the fact that the industry at large is emerging from the last two years ready to dress will aplomb again.

St. Agni.

St. Agni revives 90s minimalism
Column dresses, straight-across bodices and loosely-buttoned shirting set the tone at St. Agni, where silhouettes played into the 90s revival currently taking over our closets. Minimalism abounded with more than one look that felt reminiscent of Kate Moss’ iconic 90s era. Simplicity was the name of the game here, with looks that were unfussy but undeniably wearable.

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

Now in its third year, Camilla and Marc’s crucial ovarian cancer campaign is asking us to take note

Back in 2020, Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman (of CAMILLA AND MARC) teamed up with the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation to launch a campaign and capsule collection that would raise funds for the development of an early-detection ovarian cancer test. It was the beginning of a crucial relationship.

For Camilla and Marc, who lost their mother to the disease at 11 and 13, the cause was close to their hearts. Not only had they suffered personally the effects of ovarian cancer, but they recognised how sorely under-funded and under-researched it was — despite the rising rates.

Camilla Freeman-Topper.

Since its inception, CAMILLA AND MARC’s Ovarian Cancer campaigns have raised huge sums to go towards the work being done by Professor Caroline Ford from the UNSW Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Its inaugural year brought in $251,000, while last year’s effort raised $319,000 — money that has gone to staffing the Foundation, expanding its research biobank and setting a five-year Early Detection Programme in place, which (all going to plan) will change the way this disease is diagnosed on a global scale.

Now back for its third year, CAMILLA AND MARC’s 2022 campaign, ‘Ovaries. Talk About Them’ wants to grow its message. While its focus is still on raising all-important funds, Camilla and Marc explain how this year, they really wanted to spark a conversation about the wider issues.

Unfortunately there are some longstanding taboos attached to women’s health that the brand wants to address. This year’s campaign is all about encouraging everyone affected by ovarian cancer, be it sufferers, partners, children, friends, family, to address and break down the unhelpful stigmas that have surrounded this disease, and acknowledge the ways its impacts communities at large. It’s about support on a much larger scale, and it is bringing attention to a space that has been left in the shadows for far too long.

From left: Camilla Freeman-Topper with Professor Caroline Ford. Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman.

Comprising an ‘Ovaries’-emblazoned capsule collection, the ‘Ovaries. Talk About Them,’ campaign launches today, and is asking us all to be aware of something that affects a huge number of women and their families, particularly in New Zealand. (With about 300 new cases every year, our ovarian cancer rates are some of the highest in the world.) The only way that changes is through awareness and funding.

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion
Deli Di Bossi's Pizza fritta.
Deli Di Bossi.
Deli Di Bossi.

Serving up an authentic taste of Italy, DELI di BOSSI is the downtown drop-in we’re loving

Good news for gourmands, Downtown Auckland has added yet another dining destination to its rich culinary landscape with the recent opening of DELI di BOSSI — a delicious Italian deli and the precursor to its soon-to-be-open sibling restaurant, Bossi.

Right: MORTADELLA.

Located in The Pacifica laneway, DELI di BOSSI is delivering an authentic taste of Italy to punters in the CBD, offering a selection of fine sliced meats and cheeses, freshly-made pasta and breads, aromatic coffee and specialised Italian street food.

For owner Jenna Carter, this opening is the culmination of months of hard work, and is a love letter to her heritage. “I grew up cooking in the kitchen with my Nonna,” she says, explaining how the ‘Bossi’ concept had been entirely inspired by the most important people, places and memories from her life. Alongside the deli, the Bossi brand will comprise a fine-dining Italian restaurant as well as a bar and private function space — set to open in October this year.

Deli Di Bossi.

Taking the reins in DELI di BOSSI’s kitchen is Executive Chef Shaun Dowling, who brings his culinary expertise (particularly focused on Italian cuisine) to put a modern twist on generational recipes. Think prosciutto pizza fritta and calzone stuffed with passatta, mozzarella and basil; sandwiches with mortadella or salami di Milano; indulgent ricotta-filled cannoli with chocolate or pistachio; fresh caprese and panzanella salads and a selection of salumi boards.

From left: PANZANELLA INSALATA, PANE E STRACCIATELLA.

From its sleek, contemporary fit-out to its flavoursome menu, DELI di BOSSI is the place to pop-into for a perfectly-brewed cup of coffee or a tasty bite to eat, and is bringing some European elegance to Downtown Auckland. If this is just the beginning for Bossi, we’re very much looking forward to what’s next. Watch this space.

Opening hours
Monday – Sunday, 7am until 5pm

Bossi

The Pacifica Laneway
10 Commerce Street
Auckland CBD

www.bossi.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Foreground: Hug armchairs by Rossella Pugliatti; Drive sofa and two Blend low tables by Carlo Colombo for Giorgetti; Circuit wall light by Apparatus Studio. Background: Selene dining chairs and Mizar dining table by Roberto Lazzeroni for Giorgetti; Tassel 57 pendant by Apparatus Studio — all ecc.co.nz.

This unique family home sees a sleek, contemporary sensibility integrated into a heritage-listed building

It takes a clever eye and a considerate, careful nature to tackle the renovation of a heritage building. But when such projects are done properly — when the marriage of old and new is a harmonious and effortless one — the final effect is exquisite.

Oak House, perched atop a concrete jetty on the edge of Sydney Harbour, is a shining example of this, from its historic facade to its contemporary, European-style interiors. Here, architect Jeremy Bull of Alexander & Co. has managed to pay respect to the structure’s all-important history while transforming it into a warm, inviting family home — and the result is simply breathtaking. 

Giorgetti’s Roberto Lazzeroni-designed Mizar table and Selene dining chairs are complemented by the Tassel 57 pendant by Apparatus Studio — all available from ECC.
Subtle decorative touches have been applied throughout, like the Circuit wall lights by Apparatus Studio available from ECC.

Before it was Oak House, the structure of this home (erected in 1912) was first a place in which wool arriving from sea into Sydney was processed, before eventually becoming a suite of commercial offices. It has a storied history, and one that the owners were required to protect by maintaining the building’s colonial character and conserving its original structure. This required the team at Alexander & Co. to work strategically and creatively within those parameters, eventually coming up with a concept that would pay homage to the home’s history while grounding it firmly in the present. 

Externally, Oak House has retained its original character entirely (it was only slightly altered for restoration purposes and privacy), with most of the renovations taking place on the building’s interior. As such, the facade was designed to envelop the contemporary home rebuilt within, creating an interesting aesthetic dichotomy between old and new and making a strong architectural statement. 

Here, the Extrasoft sofa by Piero Lissoni for Living Divani available from Studio Italia, is paired with Patricia Urquiola’s Fat-Fat ottoman for B&B Italia available from Matisse.
The Cloud37 pendant and Trapeze 2 Surface pendant by Apparatus Studio, available from ECC, illuminating the Tobi-ishi dining table by B&B Italia and Hannes Wettstein’s Hola 369 chairs for Cassina both available from Matisse.

The interior is a study in sleek European luxury. Painted timber panelled walls and herringbone floors communicate beautifully with the gnarled timber beams of the original structure (peppered throughout), while a palette of soft, oaky neutrals, bright whites, undulating marble and dulled bronze sets a calm, sophisticated tone.

The Synapse pendant by Apparatus Studio lends its distinctive form to the space — available from ECC.

Subtle decorative details and touches of toned-down colour have been deployed with a deft hand to ensure that each space feels layered, warm and unique. Take the two Hug armchairs by Rossella Pugliatti for Giorgetti in the main living room for example, or the eye-catching wall and pendant lights by Apparatus Studio throughout. Every detail has been meticulously considered and assembled in such a way as to exude quiet, understated, timeless luxury. 

Jean-Marie Massaud’s Poliform Ventura stools are much-loved additions to this heart of the home available from Studio Italia.

Comprising five bedrooms over two storeys, the layout of Oak House has been just as carefully designed. With children’s rooms on the lower floors, adult living upstairs and balconies on both levels to maximise the effect of the residence’s astounding views over Sydney Harbour, this home offers a seamless flow between its shared and private spaces.

Each bathroom has its own aesthetic character, while a sprawling, superbly-designed Boffi kitchen sits at the heart of the home — a place where the family can perch on Jean-Marie Massaud’s Poliform Ventura stools to connect with one another and bookmark their days. 

The Circuit: 4 Vertical pendant by Apparatus Studio complements the bathroom’s dulled bronze accents available from ECC.

Oak House is a design triumph and a credit to Alexander & Co.’s creative approach. Overcoming the hurdle of working with a historic waterfront building to create something that feels of-the-moment without being trend-driven, Bull and his team have proven that perhaps you can teach an old dog new tricks. 

Clockwise from top left: Bamboo Silk Rug in Stone Grey from Nodi, Dual Astral Pendant from Powersurge, Aalto Vase from The Studio of Tableware, Lepli ottoman by KENSAKU OSHIRO for Poltrona Frau available from Studio Italia, Chelsea Chair by Rodolfo Dordoni for Molteni&C, available from Dawson & Co.

Design

Master the perfect serve with this luxurious caviar set
We’ve consulted the experts at Resene on the colour trend of the year
Become the host with the most with Molteni&C’s most versatile kitchen yet

Meet Schapiro’s: Auckland’s American-style sports bar, where good food and great atmosphere collide

It is undeniable that New Zealanders love sports. Our teams and players are held in the highest regard and our game-watching rituals are nothing less than sacrosanct. For many in fact, an afternoon spent in front of a game with a cold drink and some delicious food is damn near a religious experience. And until now, Aucklanders haven’t really had somewhere to enjoy this holy trifecta in one place.

Left: Gerald’s Rum Sour.

Meet Schapiro’s, Auckland’s new dedicated sports bar in Eden Terrace, and the place we’re predicting will become the busiest spot in town. Opened by Otis Schapiro (co-owner of and head chef at Lilian) Schapiro’s is filling a gap in the local hospitality scene by offering a classic, American-style sports bar experience — complete with sports memorabilia, large screens that will play all the most important games and fights as they happen and a delicious, diner-style menu, suited to every taste..

Schapiro’s Cheese burger.

“I grew up in the US with a sports nut for a father, so an obsession with sports has been ingrained in me for as long as I can remember,” Otis Schapiro tells me. “I’ve spent a lot of time in sports bars in the US and the atmosphere they provide is something New Zealand has never really seen.” For Schapiro, who has spent years working in hospitality both here and overseas, his namesake bar has been a long time coming. “I’ve been thinking about this for the last 15 years… I wanted to create the type of place where people can come for classic, well-executed food and drinks and stay for the one-of-a-kind atmosphere… when there’s a big game or a big fight on, it’s crazy.”

And for anyone who might not be enticed to Schapiro’s by the sports element alone (or who knows they’ll end up there because of their significant others), it has been designed as a place that everyone can enjoy.

Interiors by Millé.

On the menu (designed by Schapiro himself) expect delicious burger-joint-style food but done with an elevated, gastro-pub feel, and plenty of lighter options. Think classic burgers, fried chicken and St. Louis pork ribs alongside radicchio salad, whole flat fish and steamed mussels. There are 12 regularly-rotating beers on tap as well as a comprehensive wine and cocktail list to boot.

Right: Fried chicken wings with ranch.

Inside, Schapiro’s speaks to its sports-bar nature via various pieces of memorabilia and a decidedly sporty neon, but its fit-out overall (conceived by Millé and executed by Eru Ramsay) is tasteful and understated. Custom timber cabinetry by Blanc Industries (who also did the cabinetry at Lilian) lends the space a warmth, while a simple colour palette makes it feel sleek and elegant (even when packed with enthusiastic fans).

So, whether you are a die-hard sports fan or just sports-fan-adjacent, Schapiro’s’ tasty food, great drinks and exciting, buzzing atmosphere is promising to make it Auckland’s new go-to spot. We suggest getting in there early.

Opening hours:
Tuesday – Sunday, 11:30am until late
Closed Monday

Schapiro's

224 Symonds Street
Eden Terrace, Auckland

www.schapirossportsbar.co.nz

Gastronomy

Meet Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits — the new wine retail destination, bar, and café you need to know
SO/ Auckland and Mt Cook Alpine Salmon have teamed up for the caviar event of the season
Helping us end any week on a high note, Bivacco’s Sunday Feast isn’t to be missed