Few places offer vibes as consistently lively as Viaduct Harbour stalwart, Soul. With a food menu that runs the gamut from light and refreshing to comforting and hearty, a drinks menu that always inspires indulgence, and the exceptional, consistently warm service of Liv Carter and her team, no matter what you’re in for, you know its always a good time at Soul.
Soul’s peanut nutter
This month, giving us yet another reason to visit its lively locale, Soul has revamped its cocktail menu entirely — adding a host of inventive new libations (and a few more classic renditions, with a signature Soul twist) to compliment the exceptional food on offer.
From sweet to sour, fruit-forward to more savoury sips, the newly-added cocktails join familiar favourites on the menu (don’t panic, the Pornstar Martini remains) — offering a soulful salve to the dreary winter days ahead. Here, we round up our picks. Salute!
Office Manager Ivan’s Pick
Peanut Nutter
Peanut Nutter
Pairing Irish whiskey with peanut butter whiskey, oloroso, maple, and chocolate bitters, this delightful drop has all the makings of a perfect winter cocktail. Warming, comforting, subtly sweet, and entirely satisfying.
Digital Director Sammy’s Pick
Bringing Sexy Back
Bringing Sexy Back
This fruit-forward cocktail is vibrant enough to lure even the most winter-adverse amongst us out of the house. Melding żubrówka vodka with fresh peach, raspberry, and acidified apple, this delectable drop is a crowd-pleaser, through and through.
Editor Sjaan’s Pick
Grapefruit Gimlet
Grapefruit Gimlet
Soul’s elevated riff on a gimlet pairs gin with Aperol, grapefruit cordial, thyme, and anise atomiser — resulting in a heady delight that packs a punch and tastes like it belongs on a Mediterranean seaside.
Commercial Director Ange’s Pick
SOUL Punch
SOUL Punch
Akin to a rum punch, but with a decidedly elevated spin, Soul’s SOUL Punch is a punchy blend of rum, pineapple, passionfruit, orange cordial, honey, and falernum. One is never enough.
Creative Director Anna’s Pick
Nogroni
Nogroni
And last, but certainly not least, Soul’s non-alcoholic Nogroni offers a sophisticated take on the drink of the moment, pairing London dry, with Italian orange, aperitif rosso, and rhubarb and orange bitters.
With a stellar line-up of venues, from Gochu, Gemmi, and Ghost Donkey, to Burger Burger and the newly-opened Kome, the One Queen Dining precinct within Commercial Bay is one of the city’s best spots to park up for a drink and casual bite. Now, adding to its ever-present allure, the dining destination has unveiled an Aperitivo Hour, with a host of exceptional offers to choose from.
Ghost Donkey’s beef & black bean tostadas with their hibiscus chilli margarita
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday between 5—7pm, each of the five eateries with the precinct will be showcasing bespoke food and drink pairings, with a series of tantalising deals sure to satisfy. At local favourite Burger Burger, you can get potato skins and two Aperol spritzes for $32, while at Mexican-inspired tequila and mezcal bar Ghost Donkey, you’ll find two beef or black bean tostadas with a hibiscus chilli margarita for $25.
At the newly-opened sake bar and Japanese eatery, Kome, you can sample chicken kaarage, Tokyo chicken wings and skinny fries for $30, and modern Korean bar and eatery Gochu will be serving two delicious fried chicken sliders with a house beer or wine for $25. And last but not least, neighbourhood trattoria Gemmi rounds out the Aperitvo Hour offering with their cacio e pepe fries and two tap beers for just $29.
Gochu’s delicious fried chicken sliders with their house beer
Plus, to celebrate the launch of the limited edition menus, Commercial Bay will give the first 200 patrons who partake in Aperitivo Hour a 3-hour parking voucher to truly settle in and unwind after hours.
This enticing, limited-time offering is available from Thursday July 11th until Saturday August 3rd, every Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 5—7pm.
“San Ray is a place where you can eat, drink and stay all day,” Rebecca Smidt tells me of her and her partner’s new venture occupying the space that, up until recently, housed Orphan’s Kitchen. “We’re inspired by the slow pace of driving the Pacific Coast Highway, Baja, and Mexico” she continues, “We love the bright flavours of Oaxaca, and that’s what you’ll find peppered throughout the menu.”
Rebecca and Dariush are the hospitality stalwarts behind Cazador (and offshoot, Cazador Deli), the eatery they’ve now run for over 10 years, cultivating the institution’s incredible legacy. Call it the 10-year itch, or simply the desire to branch out, but a few months ago when the Orphan’s space came up, Rebecca knew it was time to give something else a go, “We’ve always wondered what we’d create if we didn’t have Cazador’s legacy — if we were starting from scratch,” she tells me, “and San Ray is the answer to that question.”
Left to right: Burnt Confit Leek and Chargrilled Mushroom Skewer
From what I’ve seen, it’s a fantastic answer indeed — a space that caters to all, with myraid options for drinking, dining, stopping by, staying all day, or anything (and everything) in between. “At San Ray, our guests are invited to ease into the day with eighthirty organic coffee, take back the lunch hour with a carafe of wine, order a small plate, maybe another… or go all out with a multi-course dinner, paired drinks, and dessert.” Rebecca proudly states, “It’s about taking it slow, being indulgent and eating well. All day.”
When it comes to the eatery’s layout, not too much has changed since Oprhan’s, but there’s been a definite face lift, with subtle changes elevating the eatery and shifting it’s usage ever so slightly. Stepping inside, expect a relaxed and comfortable dining room designed by Forma, with inspiration drawn from the lilac hues of the Monmouth Glass chandelier. Out the back, the covered patio has been given a laid-back makeover, transforming it into a more than perfect spot for convivial drinks and snacks, and the space upstairs has been transformed into a private (and very chic) room for party people.
On the food front, the options are diverse and plentiful, from breakfast favourites like eggs, crumpets, and toast, to an all-day menu with confident versions of the classics — from caesar salad, crudo, an Ohau farm wagyu rib eye steak, and tajín fries, to a number of tasty snacks, decadent desserts, and a few more tasty surprises yet to come.
The drinks list is extensive, elevated, and everyman, with a wine list highlighting premium local producers and quality internationals — with a few tasty drops on tap, and an extensive cellar. Cocktails include mezcal margaritas, Svitlo Ukrainian vodka espresso martinis, and micheladas, while there are a few favourite beers on tap for those languid afternoons come spring and summer.
San Ray 1/2 Bird Wood-Fired Chicken
Inspiring early knock-offs (just like the good old days), at San Ray’s Golden Afternoons (Tuesday to Saturday, 3-5pm), there’s a feel-good trio of house-made chips, dip and a glass of Champagne for just $30 per person. Champagne Collet Art Deco Brut is the house pour, and you can go large and add Sturia caviar if you please.
With Rebecca’s hallmark well-informed and generous service, Dariush on the tools in the kitchen (a job he’s very adept at indeed), and a thoughtful, elevated-yet-casual menu spanning both food and drinks, San Ray has all the makings of a future institution.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Ema Peter | 10 Jul 2024
Architecture — Su Casa Design Interior Design — Tomlenovich Design
Italian-Canadian interior designer Marianna Tomlenovich is known for her captivating homes that are as unique as the individuals who inhabit them. So, when it came time to turn her attention to her own personal residence, the designer looked to her background for inspiration, drawn to the elevated simplicity and understated elegance of Italian design and architecture.
Wanting to create a calm canvas for the busyness of family life, Tomlenovich employed a soothing and tranquil palette, bathing the entire house in a single, warm, creamy hue. The majority of the walls are rendered in a micro-concrete, lending texture, depth, and a decidedly European slant to the home, while light, wide-plank oak hardwood flooring infuses spaces with warmth.
“Wanting to create a calm canvas for the busyness of family life, Tomlenovich employed a soothing and tranquil palette, bathing the entire house in a single, warm, creamy hue.”
A soaring, 7.3 metre-high ceiling marks the home’s entryway, leading into the expansive, open-plan ground floor. Here, soft, curved lines set the tone, with a striking brick arch framing a semi-circle window looking out onto the pool, while a central, undulating fireplace cleverly separates lounge and dining.
This curvilinear theme is continued in the home’s grand kitchen, with a soft-edged monolithic island anchoring the space, complemented by half-circle stools and offset with a striking, deeply veined Italian marble splashback.
Wanting to conjure a spa-like ambience in bathrooms, Tomlenovich embraced a luxurious, rich material palette, combined with soft lighting and clean lines — avoiding anything too angular and sticking to neutral hues. Tumbled edge marble and limestone add depth and warmth, with Taj Mahal countertops furthering the home’s emphatically calm aesthetic.
“Bedrooms offer an elegant escape, with quietly luxurious details and thoughtful textures combining to stunning effect.”
Bedrooms offer an elegant escape, with quietly luxurious details and thoughtful textures combining to stunning effect. In the master suite, generous windows bathe the space in natural light — dappled by the mature trees lining the quaint street, while the stunning adjoining dressing room is lit from above by an expansive skylight.
While this home’s design leans wholeheartedly into the beauty of simplicity, there is no shortage of considered details which nod to the Italian art of timeless elegance. From a series of striking vignettes to a considered material palette to the clever use of curvature, ultimately, what Marianna Tomlenovich has created is not just a minimalist masterpiece — but a perfectly-realised family home.
By now you’ve likely heard all about Ayrburn’s incredible ‘Christmas Wonderland‘ which has seen the precinct’s striking grounds transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland, with light displays, larger-than-life decorations, and now, an ice skating rink to fully enliven the white Christmas experience.
Here, visitors of all ages are invited to throw on a pair of skates and glide across Ayrburn’s enchanting ice rink, or watch on from the sidelines with a festive mulled wine or tasty hot chocolate.
Whether you’re an experienced skater, or it’s your first time on skates, Ayrburn’s ice skating rink is perfect for all ages and skill levels, and promises to add a touch of European winter charm to your winter experience.
Open from now until July 23rd, from 12pm — 8pm, Monday through Friday, Ayrburn’s ice skating rink is an experience not to be missed. To book, simply add tickets to your reservation at checkout when booking online for any of the precinct’s venues, or grab a ticket directly at the rink. Tickets are $30 per adult, and $20 per child, including skate hire (or, grab a family pass for four for $90).
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS A.McVinnie | 5 Jul 2024
“Bon Pinard is inspired by the quintessential European wine bar that serves a neighbourhood,” Sarah Macdonald tells me of her and her husband’s new venture, a chic wine bar in the heart of Birkenhead, “it’s a place to catch up with old friends, eat, drink and let time pass by.”
Right: pickled mussels, preserved lemon aioli
Hospitality maestros (and husband and wife) Sarah and Jordan Macdonald are no strangers to the industry, with the talented pair currently running both Duo — an intimate, elevated bistro, and Osteria Uno — the couple’s much-loved Italian eatery (sitting side-by-side on the main drag in Birkenhead). But before teaming up to take over Birkenhead’s dining scene, the pair were already well-known culinary forces, with Jordan behind CBD haunts Culprit, Lowbrow and Little Culprit, and Sarah’s substantive experience including stints in the kitchen at Woodpecker Hill, Culprit and Fed Deli, and an appearance on Masterchef. So, it’s little wonder that the spots these two have so far collaborated on have been wildly successful, and we have no doubt Bon Pinard will follow suit.
Left to right: marinated aubergine & peppers, selection of local & imported charcuterie and salmon rillette with crostini
Occupying the spot a few shops down from Osteria Uno, Bon Pinard (which translates to ‘good wine’ in French slang) is a low-key, incredibly well-appointed, quaint neighbourhood wine bar with a stunning selection of wines and unpretentious bites, “Bon Pinard is casual and cosy,” Sarah tells me, “it’s the perfect place to drop by for a quick wine and snack or settle in and stay a few hours, and it really feels like it’s always been a part of the neighbourhood.” And from what we’ve seen, it not only feels like it has always been part of the neighbourhood but also as if it could just as easily call any quaint European town home, with an elevated yet low-key vibe that is often hard to emulate.
When it comes to the space itself, the team’s vision of a European wine bar has been perfectly realised, with one of Sarah and Jordan’s partners, Ash from Blanc Industries, conceiving and bringing the design to life, “It features a reclaimed kauri bannister and dado from an old bank in Kingsland, Sarah tells me, “The bar appears to be a hundred years old, but was handmade by his team out of French oak and a lot of detailed panelling. It really brings the vision to life.” There’s also a sun-drenched deck offering protection from the elements — to be enjoyed all year round, and a melange of vintage finds adding to the lived-in ambience.
Left: oritz anchovies, ritz & soubise
Naturally, as a wine bar first and foremost, the offering is extensive and considered — and from what I’ve seen, offers one of the best curations in the city. “The wine list is heavily European- and Kiwi-centric, with a smattering of wines from around the world,” says Sarah. “We’ve curated the list with Olivia, our restaurant manager, with around 40 wines available by the glass and over 100 in total, with a few rare gems thrown in for good measure.”
The offering will be ever-evolving to reflect the magnitude of delicious wines from across the world, but for now, at launch, you’ll find familiar favourites such as Black Estate’s ‘Damsteep’ Riesling Pet Nat alongside an extensive Champagne offering (with a few tasty magnums and rare drops such as a 2003 Dom Perignon), many a crisp, French rosé, a number of interesting varietals spanning both rich reds and textural whites, and a veritable spectrum in between — including what is, in my humble option, the best edit of orange wines in town.
There are also cocktails, aperitifs, a conscience beer list, and tasty ‘lo and no’ options — including NON’s salted raspberry and chamomile natural wine alternative.
riesling sabayon & chocolate mousse
On the food front, Sarah tells me they’re keeping things low key, with bread and butter, charcuterie, truffle-stuffed olives and the like, with several tasty small plates on offer — made for sharing. Oritz anchovies come with Jatz crackers and soubise (a French onion sauce), the macadamia nut hummus with crisps, and the smoked salmon rillettes with crostini. A much-loved Duo favourite, the whipped chicken liver parfait has made it onto the Pinard menu too, but with a twist. And for something sweet to finish there’s a rich and creamy chocolate mousse served with refreshing riesling sabayon. Sarah’s favourite dish? “The standout for me is the Vadouvan spiced braised pork cheek croquette — the perfect dish with a heavy red.”
Bon Pinard, with its tasty food, exceptional drinks, and low-key yet elevated vibe has all the makings of a go-to neighbourhood haunt, and, considering the duo bringing it to life, we have no doubt it will add yet another welcome layer to Birkenhead’s vibrant dining scene.
Opening hours: Wednesday — Thursday, 3pm until late Friday — Saturday, 12pm until late Closed Sunday — Tuesday
MoVida’s acclaimed founder, Frank Camorra, recently spent some time back in the Britomart eatery’s kitchen, crafting a delectable new menu centred on the inventive Spanish-inspired fare he’s globally know for. As always, the focus is on made-to-share, tapas-style dishes, crafted with passion and precision. Joining many of the iconic dishes MoVida has become known for, both locally and globally, is an edit of tasty newcomers which marry the depth of flavour and diverse textures typical of Spanish cuisine, with an inherent simplicity and focus on quality ingredients.
From a trio of tasty new skewers to elevated sliders, Catalan canelones, and an unmissable dessert, here, we round up our picks from the enticing new menu. Salud.
01. Bocadillo De Pescado
We’re reluctant to refer to these tasty morsels as sliders, but we’re also not sure what else to call them, given they are a mini burger-sandwich hybrid, of sorts. Light, crispy gurnard, housemade aioli, and guindilla peppers are sandwiched in a pillowy soft bun, making for an entirely satisfying starter or share plate for the table.
Pincho De Buey
02. Pincho De Buey
A duo of delectable skewers, here, flavourful slow-cooked wagyu beef rib with sherry and onion glaze is finished in the Josper, resulting in a sticky, smokey, satiating snack.
03. Pincho De Cerdo
The Korobuta Whitehart pork on these decadent skewers is marinated in Adobe spices — beautifully cut through with the accompanying pickled garlic and crème fraîche.
Pincho De Pollo & Pincho De Cerdo
04. Pincho De Pollo
And, perhaps the tastiest iteration of all on the skewer front, is the barbequed Moorish spiced chicken thigh with horopito salsa picante, sesame, and yoghurt. Served in a set of two, trust us when we say you’re going to want to keep both to yourself, with perhaps another round on the cards.
Canelones
05. Canelones
Everyone loves canelones (or cannelloni, as it’s often referred to), and MoVida’s iteration takes the beloved pasta dish to new heights. Here, Catalan-style canelones are filled with slow-braised duck and porcini, baked in a nutmeg brandy velouté. Simply sublime.
Arroz Con Leche
06. Arroz Con Leche
And no visit to MoVida is complete without indulging in one of the eatery’s delectable desserts. This newly added delight is Camorra’s take on a rice pudding, served with a beautifully tart and subtly sweet poached rhubarb compote, and topped with rose ice cream.
Swarovski has been on a spellbinding journey across the past year, reimagining the brand and retail stores. Beginning with the unveiling of its ‘Instant Wonder’ stores across the globe, the transformation has evolved into a striking new retail concept dubbed ‘Wonderlux’ — the newest of which has opened its doors on Queen Street, inviting Aucklanders to immerse themselves in a world of wonder.
“Our new store concept is an incredible ode to the creativity, and the result of Swarovski’s strong new vision, a realm where science and magic meet. Playful, aware, and always boldly chic, our aim is to reflect desires and dreams in the physical space of our stores, and to underline our new age of crystal living,” says Giovanna Engelbert, Creative Director at Swarovski.
As such, the stores are designed to ignite imaginations, with each entrancing space paying homage to the shimmering beauty of crystal, and reflecting the uniquely captivating charm of the city itself. The new Queen Street store is a true feast for the senses, as mesmerising metallic finishes and fluted glass combine with chrome and silk touches throughout, culminating in a truly wondrous experience.
Situated on the ground floor of the Heritage-listed Dilworth Building, the store slots perfectly into its luxurious surrounds, sitting alongside a wealth of other luxury brands such Hermes, Dior, Prada and Bulgari.
Swarovski’s newly reimagined visual identity is referenced throughout the striking space, with areas delineated with colour blocking in the brand’s signature hues, with myriad octagons adorning the walls in a breathtaking display of product and pattern, with the entire concept paying tribute to the wonder of crystal itself. Carrying the highly anticipated Swarovski Create Diamonds Assortment upon opening, the sumptuous new store, much like all of Swarovski’s spaces, and pieces themselves, beckons you in; promising a world filled with magic and special moments.
If you have plans to attend one of the All Blacks games at Eden Park across the upcoming season, why not make an afternoon of it with a pre-game bite and beverage nearby? Not only will you avoid the traffic and any parking debacles by arriving well ahead of kick-off, but you’ll also have the chance to enjoy one of the many tasty eateries, low-key gastro pubs, and convivial bars in the area.
Kingsland boasts a slew of epic spots perfectly suited to a casual afternoon drink. Here, we round up the top bars and eateries in the neighbourhood for a satisfying pre-game bite and beer (and perhaps, celebratory beverage post-win).
For the inside word on upcoming events, both at Eden Park and across the city, Auckland NZ has all of the details. And if you’re looking to get your hands on tickets to one of the upcoming All Blacks games, we suggest getting in quick, here.
TheUrbanaut Brewery and Taproom in Kingsland is known for its colourful craft brews, and the brewery’s eatery — an epic Smashburger kitchen dubbed Burgernaut, is loved city-wide for its simple yet sensational burgers. With all of the classics on offer, as well as an ever-evolving specials offering, and extensive vegetarian and vegan menu, there really is something for everyone, and, when paired with Urbanaut’s icy cold full-pour beers from the twelve rotating taps on offer, there are no shortage of feel-good ordering configurations that will keep you coming back.
Occupying an ex-factory in the heart of Kingsland, Garage Project’s Taproom & Cellar Door is a vibey spot for a bite and tipple any day of the week, but Saturdays and Sundays are when this lively location really comes into its own. Pared-back, sleek, and contemporary, the sprawling space houses a number of the much-loved brewery’s beers on tap, rotating frequently, with a focus on tasting flights, served alongside a concise, tasty small menu of share plates.
At Umu, specially fermented sourdough bases are dressed with delicious toppings — wood-fired in the eatery’s epic hallmark pizza oven. Umu’s pizzas hit the spot every time — petite enough to eat a whole one to yourself (although, they’re definitely not stingy), with exceptional dough and beautifully fresh ingredients that help to ensure you don’t feel weighed down afterwards.
For a taste of Jordanian cuisine, look no further than Kingsland’s Petra Shwarma. Take your pick from dishes such as Jordanian mandi (spiced rice with grilled meat, raisins and cashew nuts), a cheesy Jordanian-style fajita and Jordanian shawarma with pickles. With a dedicated vegetarian menu, there’s plenty of vege-friendly options to choose from. Try the mixed platter with salad, haloumi stuffed pita pockets, falafel and hummus.
From hazy IPAs to epic sours, and everything (and anything) in between, Saint Leonard’s Brewing is a lively, weekend-only spot with a large on-site brewery and sprawling beer garden. Here, you’ll find the brewery’s own, ever-changing drops available alongside a conscience but considered menu of epic tacos and tasty Mexican sides.
Located in the heart of Kingsland, right beside the train station, Taiko is a laid-back Japanese eatery known for its authentic sushi and Izakaya (a Japanese take on tapas). The experienced skilled chefs serve a range of authentic Japanese dishes accompanied by Japanese beer, fine wine and sake.
This unpretentious sake bar and eatery serves both traditional and contemporary Japanese fare crafted with expert precision, specialising in incredibly fresh sashimi, and a number of familiar favourites — from Agedashi Shiki Tofu to Icco Special Karaage, alongside experimental takes, such as the eatery’s infamous, must-order White Fish Tempura with curried sweet & sour sauce. There are also, of course, a host of satiating sakes on the menu — a more than perfect pairing for the umami dishes on offer.
An always lively spot serving epic food and even better drinks, Citizen Park is one of the Kingsland stalwarts we turn to time and time again for consistently good vibes. On the food front, the influence is Modern American, and as such you’ll find a number of tasty delights on offer — from Sticky BBQ Pork Belly Bites to Crispy Chicken Wings, tasty Poke Bowls, Burgers, Ribs and more, while, when it comes to drinks, there are plenty of tap beers, wines, and ciders alongside an extensive list of convivial cocktails. With a sprawling outdoor area with plenty of shared tables, it’s a perfect place to park up pre (or post) game.
You can’t call yourself an Aucklander if you haven’t been to a BYO at Kingsland’s Canton Cafe. The ambience is fun and lively and most importantly, the food is on point. Showcasing a huge variety of meat, seafood, vegetables, rice and noodles, there’s something for everyone at Canton, but make sure to order the iconic black chilli prawns.
Serving the best in Caribbean cuisine, Nanny’s Eatery is a laid-back eatery with a laissez-faire vibe, turning out hearty, belly-warming dishes with bountiful flavour, best shared with family and friends. Here, you’ll find the likes of satiating jerk chicken served alongside BBQ wings, mac ‘n’ cheese, burgers, and a slew of tasty rice dishes packed full of flavour — best washed down with an ice-cold beer or a refreshing rum from the vibrant eatery’s extensive list.
The Portland Public House is a cheap and cheerful local go-to serving western-style bites and refreshing libations, with live music come the weekend. From indulgent poutine to buttermilk chicken wings, fish & chips, steak, burgers, pizza and more, this low-key spot delivers on all fronts, with an extensive gin list, bespoke spritzes, and a bottomless brunch on Saturday to get the party started.
With 40 taps of rotating beer, The Beer Spot’s Kingsland locale is a beer aficionado’s dream, and one of the best spots in the city for a pre-game beverage. Enjoy a tasting paddle or pint on-site, or grab your favourite brew to go to enjoy pre- or post-event. You’ll also find ciders, wines, spirits and non-alcoholic options, and an ever-changing rota of food trucks serving up tasty fare.
With an intimate courtyard, a huge range of local craft beer, live music and good food, this local spot is a more than perfect place to park up for pre-gaming. An always lively vibe, 605 is a casual yet convivial spot where you can grab a drink or two and a bowl of the Drinkery’s famous fries en route to your destination, or turn to later in the peice for an evening of revelry.
Setting up shop on the corner of Ponsonby Road and Williamson Avenue is Bodega — an epic, laid-back, New York-style deli by the clever trio behind ever-popular burger joint, Parade and pizza drop-in Rosalita’s (with decades of hospitality experience between them).
Bryan Anderson, Nick Fury and Sean Bone have once again pooled their collective skills and experience to bring a much-welcomed new style of eatery to Auckland’s dining scene. Nick got his start as a chef, while Bryan and Sean’s diverse hospo backgrounds, including a stint as coffee roasters, have set the team in good stead for the style of eateries they’ve been drawn to. The trio seem to have a knack for knowing what will hit home with local foodies, with both Parade and Rosalita’s consistently drawing crowds, and while Bodega is somewhat of a departure from the quick and easy style eateries they’ve so far opened, the laid-back vibe remains. “Our travels to the States and Europe inspired Bodega,” Anderson tells me. “We saw a gap in the market here for made-to-order style sandwiches that the delis overseas do so well.” And that’s exactly what you’ll find at Bodega — epic, made-to-order sandwiches with a decidedly American slant, served alongside baked goods that would do an Italian Nonna proud.
Right: Sausage ragu Sandwich
In the mornings, the deli will serve a variety of Italian pastries made in Bodega’s bakery. Lobster tails, maritozzo, and cannoli are just a few of the traditional delights on offer. Then, from 8am until 10.30am, punters will find build-your-own New York-style Kaiser rolls. And from 11am, the sandwiches become the focus, with everything made fresh, to order — something Anderson feels will really set Bodega apart.
The menu is concise and considered, with good, honest food made well served alongside quality coffee. As far as flavours go, The French Dip is Anderson’s favourite, “I sat in a San Francisco park last year on a sunny day and tried my first French Dip, and it changed my life,” he tells me. French Dip, for those unfamiliar, is a hot sandwich on a French roll traditionally filled with slow roast beef and melted cheese, eaten with the flavourful juices of the meat for dipping — although Bodega’s version is a little more upper crust, with with sliced braised beef, onion jus, horseradish sauce, and provolone, served with beef consommé. Sublime. There’s also a Sausage Ragù number which looks particularly appealing, pairing creamy sausage ragù with roasted red peppers, sautéed greens, rocket, and balsamic glaze.
The Lobster Tail
In a few weeks, Bodega will be moving into afternoon service too, with charcuterie, beer, wine, and cocktails on offer. Then, come September when the weather warms, there are plans to open for night service, with a wine bar-style offering in the works.
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. A true labour of love, the deli was transformed by the team themselves with the help of Anderson’s father-in-law, “We were very hands-on with the fit-out. Undertaking the change of usage of a run-down, 150-year-old building was a far bigger challenge than anticipated,” he recounts, “But it’s been amazing to watch it take shape, and we’re so happy with the finished product.”
The deli has an undeniable heritage feel, with old pictures adorning walls, subtle wooden accents, and a deep colour palette, all combining to create a space that feels lived-in — a refreshing take in an era of sparse and ultra-contemporary fit-outs.
Left: Cannoli’s. Right: Sausage ragu Sandwich
Ultimately, what Anderson, Fury and Bone have created in Bodega is an unpretentious, laid-back spot that caters to Aucklanders looking for a good, honest meal or an easy go-to for a drink with friends. And, from what we’ve seen so far, it’s set to be a very welcome addition to the local dining scene indeed.
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