When planning how we’d like to spend our weekend, we could think of no better spot to while away an afternoon in gastronomic bliss than Remuera’s beloved Sìso. One of the city’s most consistent dining establishments, Sìso continues to deliver exceptional Mediterranean fare that is enjoyed by locals and those coming from further afield wholeheartedly — and their new menu is making a visit all the more appealing.
top to bottom: raw Ruakaka kingfish & whipped gabarnzo bean hummus
Bone marrow with sourdough
On the spring-focused new menu, diners will find a number of inventive, fresh, and vibrant dishes on offer. To start, whipped gabarnzo bean hummus paired with crispy chilli oil and parsley is joined by smoked eggplant puree with toasted sesame. The Small Plates menu sees local burrata given a unique spin, paired with crispy eggplant, Ortiz anchovy, and chilli crisp, alongside decadent bone marrow with preserved lemon pistou, fried capers, and sourdough. The raw Ruakaka kingfish with blood orange, caperberry, and serrano chilli is a delectable take on crudo, while a fresh endive salad has been added to the sides menu — topped with toasted buckwheat, verjus, and a creamy whipped buffalo curd. A buttercup pumpkin dish also features as a side, paired perfectly with tamarind, chilli, and smoked labneh.
Left: Burrata with crispy eggplant. Right: New cocktail additions
12-hour beef cheek raviolo
market fish ‘vongole’ with Little Neck clams
Sìso’s Larger Plates offering now sees the likes of 12-hour beef cheek raviolo, with onion caramel and parmigiano reggiano feature alongside market fish ‘vongole’, with chilli, pork sausage, jumbo cous cous, and little neck clams, and a melt-in-your-mouth Hurunui flat iron steak, cooked to perfection, and paired with fried broccolini, and whipped bagna couda. All best enjoyed with a crisp glass of champagne, or one of Sìso’s famous cocktails. Sublime.
Only a short, 10-minute ferry ride from Britomart, Devonport feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Auckland. A quaint, peaceful spot with plenty to keep you busy, here you’ll find stunning natural attractions alongside a bustling village with plenty to offer on the food and drink front.
This Melbourne-inspired all-day eatery serves some of the most elevated brunches in Auckland, alongside delicious lunchtime fare, overlooking the water from a beautiful 1920s building. From celeriac gratin, with mushrooms, charred broccolini, harissa, and pistachio, to a breakfast sandwich with a pork + fennel pattie, steamed egg, smoked provolone, and dill aioli in an English muffin, there you’ll find a truly unique spin on the classics — and tasty coffee and a glass of bubbles to wash it all down with.
For seafood lovers, paradise is found at Devonport-based Danryu — a Japanese eatery specialising in seafood. From sushi to sashimi, and all manner of fish and shellfish (including fresh oysters), as well as plentiful options for vegetarians, this authentic eatery packs a punch, and is sure to surprise and delight even the most discerning of diners.
With a philosophy that everyone should be able to eat well, no matter their culinary preferences, Vondel serves utterly delicious fare for carnivores and plant-based eaters alike. The Devonport-based restaurant is owner-operated, open for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, and focuses on seasonal fare from local suppliers.
Usually fully booked and brimming with locals, Buona Sera is Devonport’s go-to Italian joint — serving authentic fare on the main street for almost two decades. Utilising fresh ingredients to produce delectable, classic flavours, Buona Sera is a slice of Italy in the heart of Devonport township, and the perfect place to come together with friends and family (they cater exceptionally well to minis) over great food, for an authentic dining experience.
Touted as some of the best gelato in town, Yaza Gelato not only serves hearty scoops in all manner of flavours, with waffles and sweet treats to pair, but, come Thursday and Friday from 5.30—8.30pm, Ma Vá Pizza is on offer here too. With an Italian on the tools, and a light, airy crust (not to mention an epic array of toppings) these pizzas are not to be missed — and perfect for an al fresco picnic dinner come summer.
Turning out fantastic, authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Devonport, Cafe Hung Viet is one of the city’s hidden gems. With chefs hailing from Hanoi, the fare is a take on Hanoian classics. Here, the beef phở is exceptional, brimming with fragrant, fresh herbs and paper-thin strips of tender rare beef. The Vietnamese locals also specialise in the classic bánh mì, where chicken liver pâté is paired with either crisp pork belly, grilled chicken or lemongrass tofu, topped with fresh chilli and coriander. Outstanding.
A modern bar and eatery in an iconic setting, Signal Hill serves up classic New Zealand fare with an extensive drinks list, in one of Devonport’s most striking historic homesteads. As the oldest existing house in Devonport, the now-restaurant boasts more than a century’s worth of intrigue, and is the perfect place to perch for casual drinks and a bite.
Touted by our Digital Director as some of the best Indian in Auckland, Flying Rickshaw specialises in authentic, time-honoured Indian cuisine bursting with flavour. From your go-to dishes to something a little more adventurous, this laid-back local ticks all the boxes — and caters well to mini diners too. Dine in, or grab and go — parking up at one of the beachside tables for an open-air feast. Either way, order enough for next-day leftovers.
Sister to the always-popular Vic Road Kitchen, this wine bar iteration is a concept simplified; good wines, simple snacks and convivial company. Where this venue is making its mark is the wine list, serving an ever-changing array of interesting and inspired drops alongside an impressive retail range. Or, if wine’s not your thing, that’s cool — choose from the extensive beer list, and grab a selection of tapas to enjoy out back in the courtyard.
Tucked away on Devonport’s Wynyard Street, a stone’s throw (practically) from the water, sits Lily Eatery — one of the area’s go-to drop-ins for a delicious breakfast or lunch. From the simple, sophisticated menu to the mouthwatering cabinet, here, seasonal and bright ingredients take centre stage, and with a number of dairy- and gluten free options, there’s something for everyone.
A favourite amongst locals, this pint-sized bar in the village is a go-to haunt for those that live in the area. With an epic selection of craft beer, an eclectic mix of live music, and an ever-welcoming and community-centric vibe, Tiny Triumphs is the perfect spot to soak up the best of Devonport’s laid-back vibe.
Chateaubriant is one of Devonport’s best kept secrets — an authentic blend of hand-crafted French and Kiwi-inspired delicacies, from authentic, French recipes passed down through generations to reinvented kiwi classics. Locals also swear by the Friday take-home dinners, running the gamut from French favourites to Chinese cuisine and a veritable spectrum in between — perfect for ordering ahead of time and picking up on your way to a beach picnic or to enjoy in the park on a sun-soaked evening.
With October comes a slew of fascinating, fulfilling and immersive cultural experiences. From charitable exhibitions to film festivals to dance, comedy, live music and more, our October Culture Guide is here to detail everything you need to attend or book tickets to over the month ahead.
OHEN’s BCFNZ Art Exhibition, featured art by ALAN IBELL(left) and CAITLIN DEVOY (right)
When & Where:Wednesday 9th — Thursday 24th October, Allpress Studio
This October, OHEN Underwear is presenting a multidisciplinary art exhibition to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand (BCFNZ). A diverse collective of twenty contemporary Kiwi artists and gallerists — from Simon Lewis-Wards to Grace Bader — have generously donated work to be auctioned in support of this vital cause, with smaller works available for direct purchase throughout the exhibition, and larger pieces to be auctioned on the 23rd of October. Proceeds from the event will be donated directly to BCFNZ, providing crucial support for breast cancer research, awareness, and early detection programs. More than just an art show, this exhibition seeks to spark meaningful conversations and inspire action.
Freya Silas Finch’s A Slow Burlesque explores gender performance through physical theatre, burlesque, absurd comedy, and numerous costume changes. From high femme divas to old Hollywood leading men, and from clowning to Billy Elliot’s dance, Freya’s comedic solo redefines familiar gender tropes. This innovative show aims to create a new storytelling language beyond the binary.
An unmissable and captivating experience for all ages, the magic of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Panis set to enrapture audiences this October. Prepare for delightful twists in this wondrously inventive production, as the spellbinding story of Peter Pan, the boy who never grows up, is brought to life by one of New Zealand’s most innovative theatre creators.
BalletCollective Aotearoa, performing at the Tempo Dance Festival
From hip-hop to ballet to contemporary to Indigenous, Tāmaki Makaurau will dance like everyone’s watching as the biennial Tempo Dance Festival — Te Rerenga o Tere returns with a full programme of immersive, innovative and exciting dance, running from the 10th — the 20th of October at Q Theatre. The 2024 programme is teeming with established and emerging dance creators with more than 200 performers set to take to the stage for 20 shows across 10 days.
When & Where:Wednesday 23rd October — Monday 28th October, various locations country-wide
Eric Idle, star of stage and screen, presents Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, Live! This nostalgic one-man musical showcases his love for comedy, music, and “Mock and Roll” — a unique blend of comedy and music. Featuring tributes to George Harrison, Robin Williams, and The Rutles — the comedian’s legendary Beatles parody, this show promises an unforgettable evening with a true comedy legend.
When & Where:Tuesday 22nd October — Sunday 27th October, Q Theatre
The Pop-up Globe Shakespeare Company is making a triumphant return to Auckland’s Q Theatre, following the magic of last year’s performances. From the 22nd of October, the iconic pop-up Globe stage will once again set the scene, ensuring an unforgettable performance of The Bard’s beloved comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This rowdy, rambunctious, and joyful tale of the coming together of two worlds promises beauty, bawdiness and smut, with plenty of audience engagement, live music and an ensemble of talented actors. On from the 22nd until the 27th of October only, this raucous performance is here for a good time, not a long one, so you don’t want to miss out. Tickets can be found here.
The British & Irish Film Festival, featuring star-studded films like Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes
When & Where: Wednesday 23rd October — Wednesday 13th November
The British & Irish Film Festival returns to New Zealand this October and November, bringing highlights from the 2024 Toronto and Cannes film festivals. Screening across cities from Kerikeri to Dunedin, the festival features star-studded films like Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, and The Return, alongside six documentaries and a live concert. With five new locations, this year’s event is set to be the largest yet, with something for everyone across the three-week showcase.
Haircare can be arduous at the best of times, but, come party season — combined as it is with the start of summer, the maintenance of our tresses becomes even more time-consuming. Salt water, sun exposure, extra heat from styling, more product, more frequent washes, later nights and more indulgence… not exactly a recipe for lush, healthy locks.
But, we may have found the salve in Joico’s new KBOND20 Power Masque — a potent, efficacious and innovative treatment that promises to deliver 5x stronger* hair with a single use, making it an essential product for those looking to keep their locks fresh, protected, and glossy this party season.
Joining the coveted Defy Damage range, this groundbreaking new development stands out for its advanced technology, unique blend of ingredients, and ability to visibly rebuild and protect damaged hair bonds. Combining Joico’s renowned K-PAK hair repair system with the bond-building power of Defy Damage, this new, super-charged masque offers deep hydration while restoring strength on a deeper level. The inclusion of 20 powerful ingredients, such as Keratin Protein and hydrating Moringa Seed Oil, ensures that hair bonds are rebuilt and strengthened — providing rich moisture and instantly detangling, making it perfect for damaged, colour-treated, or over-styled hair. Put simply, it repairs damaged hair, then protects it from further damage. What’s not to like there?
PETA-certified, and paraben-free — the unique formula is designed for use once or twice a week, delivering salon-level results from home that will have your hairdresser questioning your loyalty.
For a complete hair-repair routine, ensuring easy maintenance and effortless styling this summer, pair KBOND20 with accompanying products from Joico’s Defy Damage range. Our picks? The Defy Damage Protective Shampoo and Conditioner, which not only further protect hair from environmental stressors and heat damage, but rapidly transform dry, dull, and lacklustre locks.
With KBOND20, Joico — an award-winning, salon-performing haircare brand — brings its legacy of innovation into the future, harnessing the potent power of the transformative power of bond-building technology, ensuring you achieve your healthiest, strongest hair yet.
Joico’s Defy Damage range
Our Picks
Joico Defy Damage KBond20 Power Masque from Hair Plus
Joico Defy Damage Protective Shampoo from Hair Plus
Joico Defy Damage Protective Conditioner from Hair Plus
*Results based on combing breakage during heat styling.
**Protects against mechanical, thermal, and environmental damage.
For over four decades, Hartfield Jewellers has been synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and impeccable taste thanks to its unique offering of exquisite jewellery. Now, under new stewardship — with visionary mother-son duo Jodie and Luke Dick taking the storied jeweller’s reigns earlier this year, Hartfield has undergone a refresh, with the beloved Parnell showroom’s transformation marking a new chapter for the brand.
Hartfield Jewellers showroom transformation
The first phase of the showroom refresh has brought a fresh, modern look to Hartfield. The space has been opened up, with an expansive, open floor plan enhancing the ambience and creating an easy flow, while striking new cabinetry from luxury brands further elevates the store’s already refined aesthetic. These updates set the stage for the upcoming installation of stunning, custom-designed cabinetry from the likes of Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni.
Hartfield Jewellers under the stewardship of visionary mother-son duo Jodie (above) and Luke Dick
In addition to the aesthetic upgrades, Hartfield has introduced a bespoke VIP Room. This exclusive space is designed to host private, intimate appointments, and events, offering a luxurious and personalised shopping experience for clients seeking privacy and one-on-one attention. Jodie Dick says of the updates, “We are thrilled to share this exciting progress with our customers. The combination of our newly enhanced space and the upcoming cabinetry from Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni will truly elevate the shopping experience at Hartfield, and our new VIP Room will allow us to cater to our clients in a more personal, exclusive way.”
Hartfield’s bespoke VIP Room
Although there are further updates to be made, Hartfield remains open for business without disruption to shoppers. The full transformation is expected to be completed before Christmas — just in time to fill your loved one’s stockings.
When you ask Lewis Mazza-Carson to tell you about K’Rd’s latest laid-back local — his new co-venture occupying an iconic corner site, he’ll sum it up in a single line, “it’s just a damn good local, really.”
Although, first impressions suggest it might be a little more than that. Mazza-Carson is the talent behind wildly popular Pie Rolla’s, the instant cult sensation ‘pie hole’ slinging pies that sell out in minutes and draw lines that snake around the corner come lunchtime. Now, taking up the iconic K’ Rd address previously home to The Thirsty Dog, Mazza-Carson, alongside his parents — hospitality heavyweights Aaron Carson and Fran Mazza (of Ada fame), are opening the doors to a laid-back bar & bistro set to be the new local.
“We have a pretty deep connection with K’ Rd,” Mazza-Carson tells me, “My parents met playing in venues on this street, and they got married on Karangahape Rd in the 90’s.” This new venture — a family affair — stays true to K’ Rd’s essence, not taking itself too seriously and knowing how to facilitate a damn good time. In Mazza-Carson’s words: “You know that feeling when the vibe at a party is just right? That’s what we’re looking to create here. It’s not snooty or some kind of once-a-year experience, it’s just a great, reliable local that anyone can feel comfortable in.”
We were lucky enough to get a preview of the space and menu, and it was instantly apparent that this family’s passion for hospitality — and immense skill in crafting venues that resonate, runs deep. Ex-Ada sous chef and Mazza-Carson’s partner in Pie Rolla’s, Patrick Marckus, heads up the kitchen, bringing his extensive expertise and unique skill set to the fore with a menu that captures his journey thus far. From growing up in Germany with Hungarian restauranteur parents to his time spent working in the kitchens of global, Michelin-starred eateries, to finding a home (and an extended family in the Mazza-Carsons) here in New Zealand — his diverse experience finds it’s footing, in an elevated take on European home cooking.
Venison pie, cranberry, venison ragù, bone marrow, suet pastry
On the menu, you’ll find what Mazza-Carson describes as food that sits above pub level, but is more accessible than fine dining. The venison pie is hand-crafted with suet pastry — a 400-year-old recipe that takes on a unique, bread-like texture and flavour, beautifully offset by a hearty venison ragù — served with bone marrow and a tart cranberry sauce. The handmade ricotta and potato dumplings with brown butter sauce (Mazza-Carson’s nonna’s recipe) are a beautiful, novel take on pasta, and, those looking for their pub fare fix will find it in their fish & chips. Served with a whipped pea purée alongside potato skins, this is perhaps the lightest and most delectable rendition of the Kiwi staple you’ll find anywhere. You’ll also find burgers, BBQ chicken, and T-bone steak on the menu, alongside a number of very well-priced starters and sides which go down well as sharing plates. Also on offer will be a proper Sunday roast, which we have a sneaking suspicion will be met with fervour by locals.
T-bone steak, garlic, sauce bearnaise
But, one of the best things about this spot, is that it’s not simply a dining destination. Their tables are for everyone — no matter what you’re in for, and those popping in for a quick pint or coffee and dessert will find a seat just as easily as those looking for a three-course meal and cocktails. In fact, drive past and you’ll get a glimpse at the outdoor set-up — a smattering of street-side tables (soaked in sun) that the team hopes will attract casual diners looking for a pint or reasonably-priced glass of wine — enjoyed alongside a pie from the Pie Rolla’s window, which will soon be available all day with all of the trimmings, from mushy peas to mash and gravy.
left: Fish & chips (chips not pictured), pea purée, sauce remoulade, right: The bar and Pie Rolla’s window
When it comes to the drinks list, it was approached with care, with Mazza-Carson and the team working with local wineries and breweries to develop a menu that means you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a great drink. As such, you’ll find house wines at local pub prices (amongst more elevated drops for those who want them), and close to ten beers on tap, running the gamut from classics to craft, with a rotating guest pour that is reserved for exciting new brews. The cocktail list is fresh and inventive — properly boozy cocktails that experiment without being too wild. The Thirsty Dog — a homage to the spot’s predecessor, pairs cucumber-infused gin with apple, elderflower, lime, and vibrant purple butterfly tea in a lively libation that tastes like summer in a cup.
left: potato ricotta dumplings, brown butter, sage, local pine nuts, right: Thirsty Dog — cucumber gin, apple, elderflower, lime, butterfly tea
We know a future icon when we see one, and this K’Rd spot is exactly that. The Mazza-Carson’s new venue embraces the road’s history and essence while bringing it into the here and now.
With plans to expand the offering based on what customers are seeking, bring live music back to the once-iconic venue, and much, much more — at this light-filled, laid-back and lively new local, the future looks bright.
From an utterly luxurious travel companion to an album to listen to on repeat; a radiant new ritual to a springtime wine release — plus, the ultimate European escape on the Athenian Riviera within which relaxation and revelry collide, this is everything that has our attention this week.
Travel Companion
Louis Vuitton’s Bed Trunk’s Modern Reimagining
Louis Vuitton has reimagined its legendary Bed Trunk, originally designed in 1868, with fresh takes by Artistic Directors Nicolas Ghesquière and Pharrell Williams. Ghesquière’s futuristic rendition blends his signature styles, while Williams adds a playful, vintage-inspired twist. The trunks combine tradition with innovation, featuring the brand’s iconic monogram, foldable aluminium and beechwood frame, and luxurious bedding — catering to modern travellers and collectors alike.
British It-Girl Suki Waterhouse’s new album is a mirror image of her life as a consummate creative, artist, actress, model, and mother. Memoir of a Sparklemuffin is “a masterful slab of exuberant, emotionally vulnerable pop,” offering a sonic palette of folky Americana, nineties alternative, turn-of-the-century indie, and hand-crafted, otherworldly pop.
Springtime Drop
2024 Releases by Kenzie
After 15 successful years of winemaking in Australia, Dave MacIntosh is back in New Zealand reconnecting with the place he grew up, turning out exceptional wines from Hawkes Bay under his label, Kenzie. Within the 2024 collection sits three markedly different wines, that are all connected — and defined — by their vibrancy, energy and freshness. The ‘Duet’ chilled syrah, ‘Beautiful Strangers’ orange, and ‘Changes’ rosé are all made from fruit sourced from four organic vineyards from across the region, with McIntosh’s deft winemaking touch shining through in each.
RAAIE, the botanically-rich skincare brand founded by Katey Mandy, is introducing the Golden Nectar Mānuka Honey Enzyme Cleanser — a luxurious new addition to their skincare range. Infused with pure Mānuka honey and potent fruit enzymes, this buttery-soft cleanser gently exfoliates, removes impurities, and doubles as a treatment mask. Designed to nourish and hydrate, it leaves skin fresh, radiant, and baby-soft, transforming your daily routine into a sensorial ritual.
Situated on the Athenian Riviera, just 30 minutes from the centre of Athens, sits One & Only Aesthesis — a captivating coastal hideaway that harks back to the golden days of the Greek Riviera. Occupying the original site of the iconic Asteria Beach Club, dating back to the 1950s, this historic property — situated amongst 21 hectares of protected forest reserve in Glyfada — has been revitalised into an exotic destination which boasts both relaxation and revelry aplenty.
While the weather is certainly still a mixed bag, daylight savings is in full swing — and we think lighter nights and longer days are certainly worth celebrating. What is also worth celebrating is the sheer number of delicious foodie events and goings-on taking place over the next month. From exceptional events to unmissable dining deals and more, this is Denizen’s comprehensive October Dining Guide.
Freshly-shucked $3 Oysters at Duo
Oyster Afternoons at Duo
Birkenhead favourite Duo has recently launched ‘Oyster Afternoons‘, where, from Wednesday through Sunday, you’ll find freshly-shucked oysters for just $3 each between 2—5pm. The drinks offering here is one of the best in the city, with an exceptionally curated wine list and a concise edit of quenching cocktails (the Yuzu Gimlet is a must), which, when paired with a plate of oysters and some great company, makes for a hell of a spring afternoon.
Céleste’s famous Cantine smash burgers are back!
Cantine Smash Burgers Return to Bar Céleste
There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned burger to put our week on the right path, and nothing hits the spot quite like K’Road favourite Céleste’s famous Cantine smash burgers. Up for grabs every Tuesday for the time being, the utterly delicious smash burgers are on the menu, alongside an eggplant burger and the usual tasty sides. Don’t forget to get in early — these will fly out the door.
an unforgettable evening with Bollinger at Commercial Bay’s Origine
An Evening with Champagne Bollinger
Don’t miss an unforgettable evening with Bollinger, hosted by Monsieur Thibaut Jaubert, Bollinger’s International Business Manager, at Commercial Bay’s Origine this month. On October 7th, limited to just 40 guests, this exclusive event will showcase five exquisite Bollinger champagnes, paired with a specially designed four-course menu by the master chefs at Origine. Each course will be perfectly matched with one of Bollinger’s finest champagnes, including some of their rare selections, while Monsieur Jaubert will guide the tasting, offering insights and stories behind the iconic wines. More information and tickets are available here.
unlock Esther’s secret menu, including a free bottle of Barossa Shiraz
Unlock Esther’s Secret Menu
At Esther this month, diners will have the chance to elevate their dining experience with a beautiful bottle of Barossa Shiraz and a bespoke menu only available to those in the know. From October 3rd — 13th, those dining at Esther can simply say the phrase,“I’ll have the Barossa, thanks,” and unlock a secret menu. The menu includes a three-course feasting-style selection of chef’s favourites (for a modest $69 per person), including a special dessert inspired by flavours of the South Australia region, and a bottle of the iconic St Hugo Shiraz to be savoured between a minimum of two people.
Induldge in a number of satiating drinks and tantalising dishes at Bar Magda’s Apertivo Hour
Apertivo Hour is Back at Bar Magda
Bar Magda’s Aperitivo Hour is back, just in time for spring, with a number of satiating drinks and tantalising dishes set to fill the early hours of the evening. Everyday, from 5 — 6.30pm, you’ll find $15 cocktails, including spritz, the Magdarita, and Negronis, alongside a delicious selection of snacks from $9. You’ll find the likes of Barry’s Bay parmesan custard with house-made focaccia, grilled chicken and duck parfait on brioche, a terrine of spiced ham and crab fat mayo with toasts, and lumpia of crab and prawn with plum sweet chilli. Or, if you’re hungry and wanting to trust the chef (which is always recommended when Carlo Buenaventura is on the tools), grab a snack platter for $65 — ideal for three to four. This is perfect for small get-togethers or after work gatherings, with the bar area now taking bookings for groups of 10+.
The Grill’s bespoke set ‘Served’ menu
SkyCity Presents: Served
Offering a culinary trip around the world, SkyCity’s first-ever restaurant month, Served, is sure to tantalise the taste buds of discerning diners this October & November. Here, participating restaurants — from Metita to Depot, are offering bespoke set menus that harness and celebrate the essence of each eatery, as well as cocktail creations crafted with Four Pillars Gin, special offers, and exclusive events across two months. From $50, multi-course set menus, to exclusive events, this is one culinary celebration you won’t want to miss. Book your spot here.
We find the perfect pairing in Asian-fusion bakery Fankery & Roku gin
Roku Gin Presents Sakura in Bloom
Later this month, the beloved Japanese gin maker is set to host a series of intimate events in partnership with popular Asian-fusion bakery Fankery, to celebrate the inaugural release of its limited-edition Sakura Bloom gin. Held at The Village, this event will be a unique experience centered on the Japanese concept of “shun” — the harvesting of seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness, and invites guests to savor spring with a curated Fankery menu and Roku Sakura Bloom cocktail pairings. More information and tickets are available here.
Soul Bar & Bistro’s Ladies Lunch
Ladies Lunch at SOUL
The original Ladies Lunch at Soul Bar & Bistro has been extended into October, and trust us when we say there is no better way to while away an afternoon with your girlfriends. From a delectable three-course meal to a glass of springtime bubbles to the picture-perfect water-wide setting and floral-festooned entrance, and, of course, an ever-lively vibe, there truly is nowhere better to celebrate the season in style. Secure your spot here.
Celebrate Diwali at Cassia with their special 10-course menu
Diwali at Cassia
Cassia’s Diwali celebration offers a special 10-course menu (to continue Cassia’s 10th birthday festivities) curated by award-winning chef Sid Sahrawat this Diwali. Here, you’ll experience a culinary journey like no other, crafted specially for the festival of lights. You’ll find the bespoke menu on offer from October 22nd until November 2nd, and live entertainment in the eatery’s outdoor courtyard from 5.30pm on October 18th & 19th, 25th & 26th, as well as on November 2nd. More information and tickets are available here.
Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration
Celebrate the Melbourne Cup at Sìso
Food, fashion and fillies collide at Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration. Starting at 11.30am, guests will be greeted with a crisp glass of Mumm Rosé Champagne and treated to a delicious oyster bar before enjoying a three-course set menu. The big races will be shown live, of course, and there will also be live music by The Swingin’ Duet, featuring entertainment legend Peter Urlich on vocals and sax maestro Andrew Isdale. Following the main race Peter Urlich will take to the DJ decks to spin a selection of dance-floor classics to entice diners out of their seats. There will also be a bet-placing facility on site. Attendees are encouraged to pull out all the sartorial stops as there will be a $500 Fashion in the Field voucher up for grabs, presented by Maman Boutique. Tickets are $250 per person, tables will be configured in groups of six, eight, 10 or 12 and bookings are essential. Secure your spot here.
Bold and emotive, Rachel Rush’s art is recognisable for its two distinct styles: the raw intensity of gritty, urban pieces (RUSH) and the tranquil beauty of alluring abstract works (Rachel Rush). Showcasing her fusion of contrasts, the artist who has a residency at the SO/ Gallery (adjacent to the SO/ Hotel on Customs Street) until August 2025 is debuting her new exhibition, Sugar Rush, this Art Week from October 8th — 12th.
Rush, for those not familiar with her work, is an acclaimed contemporary artist known for her bold, colourful art — her uniqueness lying in her two distinct, contrasting artistic styles. Sitting at the transom of chaos and calm, her soul-stirring works embrace the freedom of mixing acrylics with resin, with a fluidity to her ‘no hard rules’ approach.
Unlike many artists who shy away from contrasting and layered colour, Rush sees this as a tether within collections and between her two disparate yet interconnected bodies of work. By centralising colour, Rush’s work takes on a captivating quality, adding not only depth and dimension, but vibrancy and lightness to the spaces it occupies. Her use of resin adds yet another dynamic layer to her art, reflecting light and inviting the viewer deeper into the work.
Both of Rush’s bold, statement-making voices (RUSH and Rachel Rush) have been showcased internationally, capturing a following of devoted collectors with her emotive colours and striking characters. Now, in celebration of Art Week, Rush is debuting her new, free-to-the-public exhibition ‘Sugar Rush’ — a bold, playful collection showcasing both RUSH street art and Rachel Rush fine art, and a new style of works, all of which is inspired by the whimsy and delight of sweet treats and delectable delicacies. Throughout the week, Rush is also partaking in the Art Walks and Late Night Art.
As part of Late Night Art, Rush’s collection is being celebrated via an immersive experience, as SO/ Gallery is transformed into an immersive mecca of sugary treats for all senses — for one night only — in the name of Rush’s confectionery-inspired art exhibition. Here, food, drink, art and tactile experiences collide, as guests move from room to room, devouring delectable pieces of art alongside bespoke, sugary treats inspired by the art itself.
And, for those looking to go all-out, SO/ Auckland’s HISO Rooftop Bar will also have a bespoke. sugar-centric cocktail, matching the art and experience, and ending the night on a high note — in more ways than one.
Whether you’re a long-standing fan of Rush’s work, or simply looking to discover a different perspective, make for SO/ Gallery this Art Week.
Bodega — the epic New York-style deli by the clever trio behind ever-popular burger joint, Parade and pizza drop-in Rosalita’s, only opened it’s doors in July, but has already become a go-to fixture on Auckland’s dining scene. Now, the laid-back eatery is open for afternoon and evening service, offering tasty aperitivo and beautiful wines to match.
Bodega’s made-to-order, deli-style sandwiches, design-your-own breakfast rolls, and Italian-inspired baked goods have been meet with fervour, drawing a crowd throughout the day, and now, diners will be able to experience an elevated yet approachable take on late afternoon or early evening snacks. “We have the perfect outdoor setting for a few drinks and a bite to eat in the sun, and look forward to developing it more heading into summer,” Bryan Anderson tells me.
Filling a gaping void in the city for a casual spot for late afternoon or pre-dinner drinks and bites, Bodgea has crafted a concise but curated menu of sharing plates, served alongside hand-selected wines, ice-cold beer, and spritz — at accessible prices. “With the menu, we wanted to tailor it at an affordable price so that people can still come out and get great quality food and drink, but without the full price tag of a restaurant meal out,” says Anderson.
As such, between 3.30—7.30pm, you’ll find their famed pillowy-soft focaccia, served with butter and pickles, with the option to add cheese and cured meat, alongside stracciatella with peppornata and house oil, prosciutto with house crisps, guindllias, and crème fraîche, new-season asparagus with tomato beurre blanc and chickpea crumb, beef croquettes with mustard creme, shallot, and cornichon, and charcoal chicken skewers with plum glaze, labneh and herbs. Dishes start at just $8, with nothing over $20, and most sitting at just $13-$14 — meaning trying a little of everything (which we can highly recommend) is entirely possible.
Drinks include a number of tasty takes on the Italian spritz, a good selection of ice-cold beers, and a hand-selected edit of wines that, as with the food menu, will be ever-changing.
The space lends itself perfectly to both a casual, daytime drop-in and a laid-back spot for a drink and snack come afternoon. “The feel inside is warm, and the place is not huge but we have tried to re-create an old-school Brooklyn-style deli vibe,” Anderson tells me.
Ultimately, what this clever trio have created in Bodega is an unpretentious, laid-back spot that caters to Aucklanders looking for a good, honest meal during the day, and now — an easy go-to for a drink with friends in the sun.
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