Escape the elements and visit Denizen’s favourite subterranean eatery this rainy weekend

Words Sjaan Askwith | 15 Aug 2024

One of our favourite eateries in the city, Bar Magda, is known for its exceptional, new-wave Filipino fare (Carlo Buenaventura, Matthew Venables, and their clever team never miss), but great food isn’t the only reason we turn to this subterranean sanctuary time and time again. The cocktails also happen to be amongst the best in town.

This month, Bar Magda has a host of inventive new drinks joining the fold, as well as delicious menu items and an alluring espresso martini offering — adding to the many reasons we have to visit this lively locale.

Reasons To Visit Bar Magda

01. New Cocktails

Agua Bendita

A smooth, creamy, and indulgent concoction, here, the botanicals of Peddlers Shanghai gin blend with the nutty richness of macadamia, the sweet-tartness of feijoa, and the lusciousness of coconut cream.

Philippine Pineapple

Sweet Philippine pineapple and tart green mango balance the robust Tanday rum in this tropical and spicy fusion, while gingerbread liqueur adds warmth and complexity.

Saison Rhubarb Vermouth

The tartness of saison rhubarb vermouth is balanced by the bitter notes of East Imperial and cherry bitters in this dry, refreshing, and herbaceous cocktail.

Andre Clouet NV Champagne

A sophisticated and refreshing aperitif. The delicate bubbles of Andre Clouet NV are complemented by the sweet-tartness of preserved black dorris plum and the aromatic notes of farigoule de thyme, resulting in a light and elegant libation.

Last Seasons Feijoa

Complex and tropical, this delicious drop balances the rich, fresh notes of feijoa with sweet passionfruit, tangy tamarind, and the bold character of applejack brandy.

Ube Soufflizzy

A playful, indulgent cocktail with a touch of tropical flair, Bar Magda’s Ube Soufflizzy blends the botanicals of Peddlers Gin with the sweetness of coconut and the unique earthiness of ube to create a vibrant, brightly-hued libation that goes down a treat.

Reasons To Visit Bar Magda

02. Classic & Signature Dishes

Barrys Bay Parmesan Custard

A truly tasty way to start what is bound to be a delicious dinner, Bar Magda’s new, creamy parmesan custard with preserved pimento, served with the eatery’s house-made focaccia, is a must-try.

Tuna and Pork Suglaw

We can always count on the clever team in the kitchen at Bar Magda to turn out fare that is as delightful to behold as it is to savour, and this suglaw of grilled pork, raw tuna, nashi pear, macapuno, and creme fraiche is a shining example of just that.

Lamb Ribs

Any foodie worth their salt would have already indulged in Bar Magda’s impossibly tender, flavourful lamb ribs. And if you’re yet to enjoy what is, hands down, one of the city’s best dishes, we suggest you do so in haste. Served with soft herbs and green sambal, and pulled apart and mixed at the table by the chef, these exceptional ribs are a must-order, every time.

Reasons To Visit Bar Magda

03. Espresso Martini Nights

A trip to Bar Magda is always an enjoyable and satiating affair. Food aside, the cocktails are certainly some of the best in the city, with both inventive takes and elevated classics on offer, and now, the subterranean spot has unveiled a bespoke ‘Espresso Martini Nights’ menu come Friday and Saturday. Here, several delightful renditions of everyone’s favourite party starter are on offer for a modest $18 a pop from 8pm until midnight — setting the tone for a convivial evening.

barmagda.co.nz

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Sammy’s Deli & Diner is the laid-back new eatery in Ponsonby serving comforting, homely fare seven days a week

Words Sjaan Askwith | 15 Aug 2024

“Times are tough. A lot of people have lost the ability to eat out, drink out, and just simply be out, and Sammy’s is our answer to that,” Lorene Politzer tells me of her new co-venture with Tim Nightingale and James Tucker — the trio behind Kohi Beach Store & Eatery.

Sammy’s Deli & Diner is nestled within Ponsonby Central’s vibrant dining precinct and offers no-fuss, quick, easy (and delicious) diner fare with a quintessentially Kiwi slant, “We wanted to create a menu that brings back core memories as well as create some new ones,” Politzer tells me, “Sammy’s is a place where people can come together and enjoy good times and great food — where everyone is welcome, and you can chill for hours, or just as easily quickly grab something on the go.”

Wanting to re-create what they have cultivated at Kohi, which is an eatery centred on community, the trio identified a gap in the local hospitality scene for a warm, laid-back and inviting deli and diner, with a kiwi twist, and set to work in bringing the concept to life. The first step, Politzer tells me, was engaging Emma and Bella at Aura Studio to conceive the Sammy’s brand and really enliven the ethos — a brief they delivered on implicitly. From there, the expertise of Millé saw the space transformed into an open, homely and vibrant dining room, where comfort reigns supreme and homage is paid to the vintage diners we all know and love, but with a decidedly modern slant.

Once the space was complete, the focus fell on the food, with the team — led by Nightingale, the chef and ‘creative mind’ (as Politzer refers to him), looking to food that’s homely and comforting, “We took the concept of a classic, bakery-style filled roll and worked with Dusty Apron to develop a brioche roll that we could load with big, bold flavours,” says Politzer. From Steak & Swiss to a classic Fish Sammy to the delectable Sausage Smash Patty iteration, the rolls are a great go-to, while the dripping sourdough toasties are sure to satisfy hungry punters.

But it’s not just sandwiches and rolls on the menu here, “A diner is all about simplicity, and re-creating what you enjoy at home,” Politzer tells me, listing off a few of the classics that are on offer at the deli and diner, “Delicious steak with crispy, oven-baked potatoes, brick chicken, fish & chips, and Frosty boy soft serve with an elevated twist.”

On the drinks front, everything is on tap, a move that Politzer tells me was to both make drinks cheaper and allow staff to flow freely through the eatery, quickly pouring their own table’s drinks and adding to the more intimate, personal, and community-driven hospitality they are striving for.

With delicious, satisfying, and well-priced food, warm and easy service, and a laid-back and inviting dining room, Sammy’s Deli & Diner is a great place to grab a quick bite, settle in for a long lunch or convivial dinner with friends, or even grab on Uber Eats for those nights you’re craving comfort but can’t face an hour in the kitchen (or a pile of dishes).

Opening hours:
Sunday to Wednesday, 7am until 8pm
Thursday to Saturday, 7am until 9pm

sammys.co.nz

Sammy's Deli & Diner

136 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby
Auckland

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New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week

Words Sjaan Askwith | 15 Aug 2024

From Tom Dixon’s chic and practical portables to a notable new beauty launch from Bella Hadid’s skincare guru, this is everything that has our attention this week.

Dyson’s OnTrac Headphones

Dyson have made a striking debut in the audio world with the launch of their OnTrac Headphones, which cleverly combine innovative design with advanced sound tech to offer a listening experience like no other. Offering over 2,000 customisable ear cups crafted from materials like aluminium and nickel, these sleek headphones — available in four colour ways, allow for a highly personalised experience. With active noise cancellation, 40mm speakers, and an impressive 55-hour battery life, OnTrac are the pinnacle of premium on-the-go audio.

Dr. Lara Devgan Vitamin CBE Ferulic Serum

Founded by celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Lara Devgan (loved by the Kardashians and Hadids alike), this luxurious skincare line blends Devgan’s medical expertise (years in practice, Yale-educated, and John’s Hopkins Medical School instructed) with scientifically-proven ingredients to deliver truly incredible results. Her antioxidant-rich serum is a must-try product for glowy, youthful skin — its powerful, high-concentration blend of Vitamin C, E, and Ferulic Acid working together to combat environmental stressors, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone.

Gucci B Bag

Envisioned by Creative Director Sabato De Sarno for the men’s Fall Winter 2024, and finding a place now within the Fall Winter 2024 women’s collection, the Gucci B evokes the aesthetic of a series of archival predecessors, first seen in an artisan’s notebook from as early as the mid-1950s. With a relaxed and oversized silhouette and medium-length shoulder strap with double snap hook hardware, the Gucci B draws from the atmosphere of its mid-century origins and the decades that followed, when free thinking and free-flowing creativity forged incredible artists from various disciplines, some of whom were captured wearing previous versions of the bag.

Tom Dixon Portables

Once niche accents reserved for restaurant tables and outdoor settings, the portable lamp is having a moment — offering a sophisticated substitute for their corded counterparts, with flexibility to enhance any and every design setting. Tom Dixon’s chic edit of portables, available exclusively through ECC, takes the transitional illuminator to new heights, with options that don’t fall short on the finer details.

ecc.co.nz

Seriously Delicious by Polly Markus

Packed with the flavourful and approachable dishes Polly Markus (of Miss Polly’s Kitchen) has become known for, this cookbook is one you will actually want to use, week after week. With simple but impressive starters, tasty salads, and main meals you’ll find yourself turning to time and time again, plus a handful of decadent desserts, Polly’s second cookbook (out next week) has everything you need to bring the joie de vivre back into cooking and eating.

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Sundays are sorted at Azabu Mission Bay, where the eatery’s new Steak & Sushi Sundays offering awaits

Words Sjaan Askwith | 15 Aug 2024

One of the city’s most consistently popular and universally beloved dining spots, the signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours and dishes at Azabu Mission Bay hit the mark every time, and trust us when we say that we have visited enough to say this with conviction.

Now, as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, Azabu Mission Bay is celebrating Sundays in a very enticing way — with a new Steak & Sushi Sundays offering set to kick off this coming weekend (August 18th), running every week until the end of September.

Here, diners will find an exclusive set menu featuring locally sourced meats cooked on the Robata grill (from 250-gram scotch fillet to chicken yakitori) alongside signature sushi rainbow rolls, the freshest sashimi, kingfish ceviche and snapper katsu tempura.

Served platter-style, for $170 the Steak & Sushi platter feeds 3-4 diners, and promises a feast for the senses with something for every taste and proclivity. And if you’re feeling indulgent, there’s the option to upgrade — with Japanese Wagyu, double the sashimi and a fresh New Zealand scampi added to the mix.

Azabu Mission Bay’s exclusive Steak & Sushi set menu, featuring meats from the Robata grill

On the drinks front, there’s a curated selection of Roku cocktails up for grabs for a modest $16, or ice-cold Asahi for just $10 — the perfect accompaniment to the fare on offer.

Book a table here to make the most of this exceptionally delicious deal.

savor.co.nz/festival

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Wallace Mua’s latest venture, Trivet, is an elevated new all-day bistro in the city inspired by a multi-cultural Aotearoa

Words Sjaan Askwith | 13 Aug 2024

Since bursting onto the scene over a decade ago, Wallace Mua has proved himself a trailblazing force in the world of gastronomy. From the bustling kitchen of Soul Bar & Bistro (where he was given what he describes as his “big break” by the esteemed Gareth Stewart) to a six-year stint working in kitchens in France, to returning to helm some of the city’s top eateries (Kingi and Euro, to name a few), and a stint as the official cook for the touring All Blacks during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, it’s fair to say that Mua has experienced the kind of diverse career many can only dream of.

With a cooking style he describes as ‘elaborately simple’, Mua loves experimenting with Pasifika flavours inspired by his Samoan heritage — weaving in techniques and ingredients that draw upon the vibrancy of the islands. His new position, heading up the kitchen at Trivet, an elevated new all-day bistro in the heart of the city, is the culmination of his culinary journey thus far, with each of the chef’s dishes a celebration of both flavour and heritage. “Trivet is more than just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of my personal journey and the influences that have shaped my culinary philosophy,” Mua explains, “Each dish tells a story, blending flavours and techniques from around the world to create something truly unique.”

For Mua, Trivet embodies his cooking ethos, which isn’t tethered to a particular style of food or concept, but instead honours his heritage and the vibrancy of New Zealand’s inclusive dining scene, which the chef notes finds a place for everyone. “There are so many different cultures and styles here, with so much opportunity for creativity and interpretation. Everyone is a foodie in their own right.”

Chef Wallace Mua preparing his octopus carpaccio

Left (front to back): Trevally oka and octopus carpaccio. Right: Trivet’s New Fashioned Cocktail

On the food front, diners can expect a feast for the senses, with signature dishes that showcase Chef Wallace’s world-class culinary repertoire. From the vibrant trevally oka, to the indulgent slow-cooked beef cheek cromesquis, reminiscent of his time in France, every dish is a celebration of flavour and heritage.

Trivet’s interiors have been meticulously designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, blending organic textures with contemporary elements. Drawing inspiration from Aotearoa’s natural environment and iconic landscapes, Trivet features an earthy palette of greens, neutrals and warm wood tones, connecting diners with the land. Floor to ceiling windows reflect the natural light, seamlessly bringing the outdoors inside and encouraging guests to linger at the all-day bistro as the sun sets.

Right: Coconut and white chocolate mousse

Inspired by a multi-cultural Aotearoa, Trivet is set to celebrate the evolving richness of the people, culture, and heritage unique to our corner of the world. And who better to be at the helm than a chef who has long been a champion of all that New Zealand has to offer.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, Trivet is located at 22 Albert Street neighbouring the prestigious JW Marriott Auckland hotel.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, 6.30am until 10.30am and 12pm until late

trivetdining.co.nz

Trivet

JW Marriott Auckland
22 Albert Street
Auckland

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Soul Bar & Bistro is teaming up with Polly Markus (of Miss Polly’s Kitchen) for an unmissable day of seriously delicious food — secure your spot now

Words Sjaan Askwith | 13 Aug 2024

In the second installation of its speaker series, Soul is handing the mic to Polly Markus (AKA Miss Polly’s Kitchen), in celebration of her highly anticipated second cookbook, Seriously Delicious, which launches on August 20th. Known for her laid-back and joy-filled approach to cooking, Polly has amassed over 70,000 followers on her Instagram account, and now, with her second cookbook launching this month, the Instagram chef is teaming up with Soul for an evening of seriously delicious food and what is sure to be an entertaining and enlightening Q&A with the eatery’s GM, Liv Carter.

Polly doesn’t follow foodie trends, nor does she overcomplicate dishes — she simply creates great food and recipes that people will love to cook and share with friends. An ethos that Soul too embodies wholeheartedly. And, come Wednesday, August 28th, between 12 — 2pm at Soul, guests will find the best of both worlds, as the clever team in the Soul kitchen recreate a selection of Polly’s new recipes, served alongside Malfy cocktails, while Liv and Polly talk all things cooking, entertaining, and how to make cooking (and eating) a little less seriously and a little more fun.

With Polly’s spirited personality and delicious fare, and Liv’s unfaltering ability to kick-start a good time, this is guaranteed to be an exceptional event not to be missed. Tickets are $95 per person, which includes a tasty, three-course lunch and a Malfy cocktail on arrival. And with the opportunity to be one of the first in the country to get your hands on a (signed) copy of Seriously Delicious, we know tickets won’t last long. Secure your spot by calling Soul on 09 356 7249 or email [email protected], stat.

soulbar.co.nz

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Heading to Lion King Live this August? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

Words Sjaan Askwith | 13 Aug 2024

There’s nothing quite like a thrilling live event to draw us out of the comfort of our homes in winter, and luckily, Auckland’s cultural calendar has been brimming with events as of late — with another set to captivate audiences this August. Lion King Live is taking place on August 30th and 31st at Aotea Centre, promising a music event like no other, as the magic of Disney’s animated classic The Lion King is coupled with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra as it performs the beloved Oscar-winning score by Hans Zimmer and songs by the likes of Elton John and Tim Rice — live to film.

If you have plans to head along, we’ve compiled a discerning list of where to eat, drink and celebrate around the event, encouraging you not just to make a night of it, but an entire weekend.

Where To Celebrate

With Kids in Tow

Huami

While Auckland has no shortage of exceptional eateries, few venues in the city boast cuisine as delicious and satisfying as contemporary Chinese eatery Huami. We find ourselves turning to this SkyCity favourite time and time again; so consistent is its delivery of excellent dining experiences — from exceptional Yum Cha to a very well-stocked bar, lively vibe, and the most central of locations, plus free parking for diners and a menu that caters to kids, there are very few boxes Huami doesn’t tick.

Masu

SkyCity’s Japanese stalwart has long been a family favourite. The kids can enjoy a bento box with all the beloved Japanese delicacies, all while mum and dad enjoy some delicious fare from the regular menu and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Fed Deli

This CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. Any Aucklander worth their salt will have a go-to order here (more than likely the chicken salad sandwich with chicken skin crackling, iceberg and dipping gravy), but it just so happens The Fed also caters incredibly well to mini discerning diners too. The ‘Lil Feds’ menu features a number of tasty delights, from a basket of fish and chips to a mini version of the famed chicken sammy and more. There are also $12 milkshakes available for the school holidays, with chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and banana to choose from.

Where To Celebrate

Pre-Show

Cassia

Cassia at SkyCity takes modern Indian to new heights, with a delicious selection of contemporary delights perfect for sharing with a group pre-event. In the most central of locations, with a dimly-lit, vibrant dining space, as well as a number of set menus to choose from for those looking to turn lunch or a pre-event bite into a gastronomic delight.

The Grill

Beloved Auckland institution The Grill is back after a short hiatus, and better than ever — now conveniently located in the new five-star hotel within the SkyCity precinct, Horizon. Here, the emphasis is on steak and seafood, with exceptional, local produce taking centre stage. Book a table and indulge in a very satisfying pre-show bite, and maybe head back after the show for a drink if you’re staying in the area, or if you, like us, simply can’t stay away.

Gilt Brasserie

Drawing on refined restaurant culture from around the world, Gilt delivers on all fronts — from the menu, featuring contemporary takes on classic dishes you’d find at a European brasserie, to world-class wines, timeless cocktails and more. There’s no better spot to park up for lunch, dinner, post-show drinks, or anything in between — just make sure to order the baked oysters and a Gilt Gimlet.

The chic, Parisian-inspired Paname Social

Paname Social is a chic, Parisian-inspired restaurant and wine bar serving decidedly European fare all day. The menu has a strong French influence, with many dishes grounded in authentic recipes with ingredients sourced from local French suppliers. Food is served from dusk until dawn, the wine list is extensive, the cocktails are inventive and coffee is served around the clock, bringing a true taste of the European mode de vie to Auckland’s dining scene.

Where To Celebrate

Post-Show

Bar Magda

Pre- or post-show, either way, a trip to Bar Magda is always an enjoyable and satiating affair. The cocktails are certainly some of the best in the city, with both inventive takes and elevated classics on offer, and the new-wave Filipino fare always surprises and delights. There’s also a bespoke ‘Espresso Martini Nights’ menu come Friday and Saturday, which features a number of delightful renditions of everyone’s favourite party starter, for a modest price, that are sure to set the tone for a great night.

Culprit & Little Culprit

While Culprit’s innovative culinary concept is perfect for a pre- or post-show bite, with an ever-changing menu comprising trolleys of snacks to share, the eatery’s ‘mischievous younger brother’, Little Culprit, is a fantastic spot to keep the party going. Quaint and chic, this cocktail bar and wine lounge boats an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for those seeking a nightcap.

Tappo

Set in an atmospheric spot within St. Kevin’s Arcade on K’Rd (Karangahape Road for out-of-towners), Tappo is a laid-back wine bar with an exceptional menu of snacks and an even better drinks list. Here, the focus is on showcasing wines from small, biodynamic, and organic producers from around New Zealand and Italy, and the always knowledgeable staff are on hand to recommend something perfect for every taste, proclivity, and mood.

www.aucklandnz.com

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Ebisu is hosting an unmissable wagyu event this month, and we have all the details

Words Sjaan Askwith | 13 Aug 2024

Wagyu beef originates from Japan and is renowned for its extraordinary marbling — a unique feature that results in unmatched tenderness and a rich, buttery, and decadent flavour. True steak aficionados will likely be able to spot the difference in quality (not all wagyu is created equal), but for most of us, it’s the experts to which we turn for the inside word on the best of this flavourful delicacy.

Ebisu is one such authority, with head chef Darren Johnson having a long history of crafting exceptional dishes that bring out the best of wagyu’s unique flavours and differing cuts. And this month as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, the much-loved inner-city haunt is hosting an exceptional culinary event centred on the art of wagyu, and the intersection of Japanese and kiwi cuisines.

Here, diners are invited to enjoy hand-rolled wagyu tatar, surf & turf blow-torched wagyu & scampi roll, a wagyu shabu shabu, smoked wagyu brisket, and a unique New Zealand vs Japan showcase.

Alongside this carnivorous smorgasbord, guests will find a Glenmorangie Tale of Tokyo Mizu Manhattan on arrival, and enjoy wine matches from Church Road and St Hugo throughout the five-course meal.

Tickets are $185 per person and include five delicious courses, a cocktail on arrival, and four wines. You can secure your spot here.

savor.co.nz/festival

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Meet Kemuri Hi-Fi — a bespoke basement lounge for lovers of vinyl, whisky and cocktails

Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Nick Paulsen | 9 Aug 2024

In a subterranean spot beneath Commercial Bay sits Kemuri Hi-Fi, a bespoke new basement lounge bringing the essence of Tokyo’s jazz kissas to the heart of the city.

The sultry underground bar is the brainchild of world-renowned bartender Jason Clark (JC) and promoter and record collector Vishal Vasan, aka DJ Vee. A subterranean sanctuary that uniquely showcases Clark’s fine whisky collection and Vee’s extensive assemblage of vinyl records, the vibrant new spot feels like a truly novel addition to the city’s hospitality scene, “Good music and delicious drinks are the key elements to a great bar experience,” says Vee. “Our collections are a slice of our personal journeys through hospitality and entertainment.”

An escape from the city’s hustle, Kemuri Hi-Fi offers an intimate social hub where high-quality drinks and curated music take centre stage (with a few Japanese bites thrown in for good measure), “Many years of travel, experiencing bars throughout the US, UK and Japan inspired us to create a uniquely Kiwi version of the classic Japanese jazz kissa,” says JC of his new co-found venture, “Kemuri Hi-Fi will be more like an international version of a kissa. In Japan, the drinks are often quite basic and you’re there to sip and listen, not talk. Whereas the international versions have more of a vibrant vibe, and this is what we’ll offer at Kemuri.” he continues.

Here, the drinks certainly go beyond basic, with an inventive cocktail menu, a curated wine list with an emphasis placed on quality Champagne, and, of course, an extensive whisky offering. In fact, JC’s whisky collection (which forms the basis of the offering), has been decades in the making, “I’ve picked up spirits of all kinds, but the bulk of it has been whisky. Many bottles were purchased on travels through Scotland, the US, Japan and Dubai,” he tells me, continuing, “Over the years I’ve opened, shared, and enjoyed far more than I’ve managed to keep sealed, but what I have kept and shipped home is all pretty special stuff — much of which isn’t available here,” he proudly states. “These whiskies, along with others hand-selected from local partners, will be displayed in cabinets and laid out according to flavour profiles as opposed to regions, making it much easier for people to navigate and select a whisky that suits their personal preferences.”

But, while Kemuri Hi-Fi undoubtedly specialises in whisky, there’s a lot more on the drinks menu to get excited about. With JC being a world-renowned cocktail bartender, a comprehensive and highly creative edit of high-level cocktails is guaranteed. “I’ve let the creativity run wild on this cocktail menu, alongside some clean, minimalist drinks to balance it out. I’m particularly excited about running a Japanese ice carving program which will really elevate our serves.” Being big Champagne fans, JC and Vee have set up partnerships with Moet, Dom Perignon, Krug and Armand De Brignac, to ensure they have an incredible selection of fine and rare Champagnes available.

Music also plays a fundamental role at Kemuri Hi-Fi, and, drawing inspiration from the incredible, bespoke sound systems you’ll find at Tokyo’s jazz kissas, Vee and JC commissioned a bespoke high-fidelity sound system by Tobias Shaughnessy of Tub’s Audio, which sits produly behind the bar and builds rich, layered, warm sonics. The space itself is fitted with acoustic materials to enhance the listening experience, while the music — Kemuri Hi-Fi’s essence, is Vee’s vinyl collection, accumulated over the course of a musical journey that began as a teenager in his hometown of Wellington in the early 1990s and has been collecting ever since. “Kemuri Hi-Fi will be a high-fidelity lounge for us to host a talented pool of incredible DJs, along with a carefully selected range of passionate record collectors who will be sharing their own musical influences and stories for the listening pleasure of our guests.” says Vee.

Further setting the bar apart, Vee and JC have dreamt up a number of alluring memberships (one of which includes a personalised bottle of single malt to sip on site) for those who want to connect with the bar and appreciate its equal parts: community and culture. The Whisky Membership offers VIP perks, plus a personal bottle of Kemuri Hi-Fi whisky to sip whilst visiting. Vee and JC have collaborated with Waiheke Whisky to craft a bespoke single malt whisky, with only 200 bottles produced, hand-filled from a single cask. The Champagne Membership offers similar perks, alongside access to exclusive Champagne and wine offerings and events, and your own bottle of Moet Grand Vintage, while the Kemuri Hi-Fi VIP Membership grants members access to monthly members events and early access to ticketed Kemuri Hi-Fi music events.

With a bespoke high-fidelity sound system, meticulously designed space, tasty bites, and an unrivalled selection of libations, Kemuri Hi-Fi blends the essence of Japanese kissas with Clark and Vee’s unique journeys, creating a haven for whisky aficionados and music lovers alike. “Come into our space, sit back, relax with a delicious drink and enjoy the music while we tell you a story and take you on a journey.”

Opening hours:
Tuesday to Saturday, 4pm until Late

kemurihifi.co.nz

Kemuri Hi-Fi

1 Queen Street Basement
Commercial Bay
Auckland CBD

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With $30 lunches & $45 dinners, Somm is the place to be this Restaurant Month

Words Sjaan Askwith | 9 Aug 2024

Nestled in a prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Cellar Door not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any time of day.

This month, adding to our list of reasons to visit, Somm are celebrating Restaurant Month in a number of enticing ways, with two specially curated set menus for lunch and dinner, designed to delight, available with recommended wine matches or an exclusive European wine flight.

For just $30, From 12pm — 3pm, Thursday through Sunday, Somm’s bespoke lunchtime set menu serves up a feast for the senses. Start with charcuterie, cheese and pickles, before selecting a main from an alluring edit of pizzas sure to satisfy.

If you’re looking to explore Somm’s expertise, add the European wine flight to your order. Featuring four, 75ml, bespoke pours for $34, spanning Italian whites to French reds, this addition is guaranteed to elevate any lunch to new heights.

Come dinner time, the $45 set menu, available from 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday, offers an entrée and main course. To start, select from crudo or burrata, before following up with a delectable main — with both market fish with parsnip, apple and sorrel and Somm’s 250g butcher cut with Bannockburn jus and chimichuri both on offer.

As with lunch, the wine flight is an essential addition, while the pairings offer the ideal accompaniment to the exceptional food on offer.

sommcellardoor.co.nz

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