Kicking off the Savor Spring Food Festival with a bang, Bivacco is set to host a unique degustation in collaboration with storied winemaker, Penfolds, celebrating 180 years of exceptional viticulture, and we have a table for four to giveaway.
One of Australia’s most famed and respected winemakers, Penfolds’ history began in 1844, and by the mid-1880s the winery was producing 1/3 of all South Australia’s wine. Fast-forward another decade, and the company’s first Chief Winemaker, Max Schubert, propelled Penfolds onto the global stage with his experimentation of long-lasting wines — the creation of Penfolds Grange in the 1950s.
Since then, a lot has happened — including Penfolds Grange being given a heritage listing in South Australia, and many a medal awarded to the winery’s ever-growing and always innovative range, but one thing has remained consistent — Penfolds’ unwavering dedication to experimentation, curiosity and uncompromising quality.
Penfolds Vineyard
Now, as the historic winemaker celebrates eighteen decades of innovation and invention, convivial Viaduct Harbour bar and brasserie (and local authority on great drinks), Bivacco, is welcoming those partial to a glass of Penfolds to celebrate this milestone with a unique degustation.
Hosted by Penfolds ambassador Sam O’Connell, this elevated affair will see guests sipping on some of the world’s most celebrated wines while enjoying an expertly prepared, multi-course menu, crafted by Bivacco’s clever culinary team to pair perfectly with the elegant wines being poured.
Guests will enjoy a five course menu with a flight of superb Penfolds wines including the iconic Penfolds Grange,which is known as the most powerful expression of its multi-vineyard, multi-district blending philosophy. On the food front, poached crayfish crostini is paired with Siberian Osetra Superior Caviar, Lake Ohau wagyu carpaccio with wood-roasted beets is topped with burnt butter salmoriglio, and the light, bright Bin 144 is paired perfectly with a tuna crudo, served with buttermilk dressing, cucumber, apple and dill.
With only 40 spots available, this exclusive event, taking place on Wednesday, August 14th, is sure to sell out. Secure your tickets here before they’re gone, or enter below for your chance to win a table for four — valued at $660.
Swarovski has undoubtedly been through an evolution across the past five or so years, with the recent launch of its spellbinding Wonderlux retail stores a tangible representation of the brand’s bold new era. But, as our Editor discovered last week at the Australasian unveiling of Swarovski’s striking Created Diamonds collection in Sydney, the best is yet to come.
Our Editor wearing Swarovski’s Galaxy Necklace
The Galaxy Collection, an edit of impeccably designed necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets showcases the exquisite vision of Swarovski’s Creative Director, Giovanna Engelbert, as the first collection she’s designed for the house. Finding inspiration in the cosmos and the awe-inspiring beauty of diamonds themselves, the edit brings a playful, confident new approach to diamond design, with inventive pieces evoking the wonder of the galaxy.
The pieces, crafted with intensely light, lab-grown diamonds, run the gamut from standalone solitaires to contemporary clusters; each highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship and timeless style Swarovski has become known for.
Swarovski’s Galaxy Ring (left) and Tennis Necklace (right)
After being incredibly well received globally, the collection is now available across Swarovski’s 21 stores in Oceania, including the new Wonderlux store on Auckland’s Queen Street. The Australia and New Zealand range launch also sees Swarovski entering a partnership with the International Gemological Institute (IGI), a global leader in diamond assessment, which will certify all Swarovski’s lab-grown diamonds and guarantee the exceptional quality of each stone. The IGI bases assessments on the same stringent criteria it uses to assess mined diamonds, based on the four C’s — cut, colour clarity, and carat weight.
Ultimately, Swarovski’s Created Diamonds collection adds yet another dimension to the already multi-faceted jewellery house. And as the brand looks to the future, entering the fine jewellery market seems like a natural evolution — a move which, under the tutelage of Giovanna, we’re sure will be well received indeed.
Rhu opened its doors earlier this year and has since, very swiftly, established itself as a place that should be on everyone’s radar. Set in the Parnell space that once housed Alpha, Rhu is an all-day eatery serving impeccably crafted but refreshingly uncomplicated fare that reimagines classic dishes with finesse and flavour.
The eatery’s founder and chef, Tushar Grover, cut his teeth as a chef in New Zealand by working in some of the most respected kitchens in the country, including Huka Lodge and Pasture — one of Auckland’s most distinguished fine-dining institutions until it sadly closed last year. There, the Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef was not only serving as sous in the main restaurant, but he ran Pasture’s bar, Boxer and its bakery, Alpha, for two years, churning out some of the tastiest fare to be found in this city. And, after Pasture, Boxer and Alpha closed, Grover was called on to help set up another elevated spot on K’ Road, Flor (with Dan Gillet from Wine Diamonds) which since opening, has seen an incredible response from local diners.
Earlier this year, the clever chef returned to an old stomping ground to open a venture of his own, Rhu, in the space that once housed Alpha, and hasn’t looked back since. Now, after taking his time to get the eatery’s day service perfected, Grover is expanding into nights — much to the delight of discerning diners city-wide. “Transforming Rhu into an all-day eatery has been fascinating,” he tells me, adding “Now, we’re evolving the space into a warm and cosy den come evening.”
Here, the dinner menu will showcase New Zealand’s finest seasonal ingredients, with winter-focused dishes that provide warmth and comfort, centred on Grover and his team’s love for seafood and fresh produce. “Staying true to our philosophy, our offering is fresh, light, crisp, and fun, ensuring a delightful experience,” the chef proudly states. I’m curious as to which dishes the chef favours, and he tells me that, while the entire menu feels exciting, blending elements reminiscent of summer with those honouring the winter season, his favourites are the tuna with coriander, and the kingfish with vanilla distillate, while he anticipates that crowd favourites will be the A5 Wagyu with berries, and our oyster mushroom skewers.
And with Rhu’s night service comes an exceptional drinks offering, with an exquisite wine list curated by Rhu’s restaurant manager, Pierre Bernardeau. You’ll find intriguing selections from New Zealand and France, with each wine hand-picked to complement the menu and create perfect pairings. Dan Gillett from Wine Diamonds supported the team in building an understand of the local wine landscape and clientele, reflected in the thoughtfully-crafted and entirely bespoke menu. Additionally, Rhu offers beers from favourite New Zealand producers, inventive house-made sodas with flavours such as tomato and shiso, and cocktails crafted with the expertise of Phil Spector.
When reflecting on how evening service will differ from Rhu’s daytime offering, Grover tells us that, where during the day service is quick and efficient, nighttime dining will afford the team more time to provide a creative and immersive experience. Guests can linger for longer, savouring bites and drinks with warm and personalised service, allowing Grover and his team to showcase the full breadth of their hospitality — which is an exceptional thing indeed.
Eschew the traditional stylistic boundaries of living spaces, instead boldly mixing colours, patterns, textures and design styles to bring a depth and dimension to your home not afforded to the beige brigade.
From fluid forms and colourful hues; playful prints to unexpected accents, dare to look outside the minimalistic style spectrum — and reap the remarkable rewards.
Trenzseater, driven by the vision of interior designer Ben Lewis, has luxurious illumination down to a fine art. From sophisticated chandeliers to lighting that leaps out, Trenzseater’s unique and thoughtfully curated selection of wall adornments reminds us to think outside the box when it comes to finishing touches.
bomma dark & bright star pendants
And while, given the breath of the selection, there are countless exceptional lights to choose from, for us, one brand stands out for its unwavering dedication to creativity and craft. Paying homage to traditional glass-making techniques, with distinctive lighting crafted with diverse, design-led spaces in mind, Bomma (available exclusively through Trenzseater) enlivens the form and character of light itself, creating alluring lines of illumination and casting any space in an enchanting glow.
Below, we round up the pieces that have our attention, from the fluid Flare Chandelier — a design that pays homage to traditional glassmaking techniques, to the Ama Pendant, its form visually evoking the delicate shells of mussels that produce treasured pearls.
And, while the design destination is undoubtedly adept in the art of illumination, the experience extends to all corners of the home — a standing now reflected, in Ben Lewis’ winning an award for his residential interior design work in the prestigious International Design & Architecture Awards. Judged by an acclaimed global panel, this achievement is a testament to Trenzseater’s passion for interior design, demonstrating Lewis and his team’s commitment to delivering projects of exceptional quality.
Loud in atmosphere and huge in personality, Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina is Auckland’s newest Cali-Mexican eatery, showcasing the best of California’s vibrant coast and LA’s street scene in a lively locale in Viaduct Harbour.
Left: Guacamole with salsa roja and corn chips. Right: Rosie’s slushy margs
Inspired by the fictional character of Rosie — a traveller who landed on the West Coast and couldn’t bring herself to leave, Red-Hot is a cantina that buzzes with energy from lunchtime to late. Taking up residence in the iconic Viaduct corner location formerly home to Coops Corner Pub, the eatery boasts bold décor, indoor and outdoor seating with sweeping waterfront views, and a private function room for party people — complete with its own bar.
With a menu that spans burgers to tacos (Birra included), chicken wings to ceviche, beers to frozen margaritas — the laid-back new eatery (which also has an outpost on Wellington’s waterfront) is an ideal spot to grab a bite and beverage with friends, leaving suitably satisfied every time.
Back to front: Rosie’s Best-in-Town Chicken Wings and Chilli Con Queso with a slushy marg
On the food front, the white corn tortilla tacos are and essential order, with pork belly, baja fish, lamb, cauliflower, and cheeto chicken all on offer (the latter are a must-try for adventerous gastronomes, pairing schmaltz-dipped habanero tender with shredded cabbage, Calexican mayo, pickled daikon and, you guessed it — Flamin’ Hot Cheetos). On the sharing plates menu, you’ll find Rosie’s signature guacamole, the ‘best in town’ chicken wings — served with Calexican buffalo sauce, sesame, radish, and Xiannaise, and chilli con queso — a tasty melted cheese and chilli pepper dip.
Chocolate Lava Cake
While, on the drinks menu you’ll find many an ice cold beer, a few tap cocktails (and a few shaken classics, too) and a comprehensive wine list, but the real pièce de résistance (and reason alone for a visit) is the eatery’s frozen slushy margaritas. With an ever-changing rota of flavours, these convivial cocktails are sure to satisfy — particularly across the warmer months and are a must-try, pairing perfectly with the fresh and filling food on offer. Or, if it’s a more traditional riff you’re craving, you’ll find three margaritas available on the rocks too. There’s also sangria and troves of tequila — available as is, by the bottle, or as a tasting flight.
Ultimately Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina offers a lively and laid-back centre-city eatery in which friends or family can come together over great food and drinks, guaranteeing a good time.
Opening hours: Monday — Sunday, 11.30am until late
There is a gastronomic experience that should be on your radar this spring, with 70 exceptional events taking place across 60 days — at 18 of the city’s best venues. We’re talking about The Savor Food Festival — set to dominate our culinary calendars in the coming months, offering fanatical foodies a full slate of unmissable events, brought to you by the hospitality maestros at Savor Group.
Epic lunch and dinner deals are sure to inspire indulgence — with something for every taste, proclivity and occasion. From day to night, casual to well-heeled, quiet bites to uproarious celebrations. You can expect guest chefs and star mixologists to be on top form, winemakers and artists ready to captivate, and a number of Auckland’s favourite dining destinations ready to pull out all of the stops.
To give you a taste of what’s to come, renowned Australian guest chefs Frank Camorra and Big Sam Young are flying in for the occasion, along with a number of exceptional winemakers, designers and a few novelists set to make an appearance. From wagyu tastings at Ebisu, to unlimited pinchos at MoVida to the chance to win a diamond at Bivacco’s Ladies Lunch, and with over 70 events to choose from, there’s no shortage of opportunities for indulgence, and with $35 lunches, $55 dinners, and $15 cocktails available across the entirety of spring, there’s no excuse for staying home.
Savor’s Spring Food Festival promises to surprise, delight and captivate this spring, and throughout the festival, consider Denizen your go-to resource for what’s on and when. Below is a snapshot of what’s to come, including a few unmissable events we suggest securing your tickets to, stat, before they sell out.
Savor Food Fest 2024
Secure Your Spot
Dinner with John Kirwan at Amano
An Evening with Sir John Kirwan
When & Where:Monday the 19th of August at Amano Tickets:book here
Indulge in a delectable dinner with Sir John Kirwan at Amano, where an exclusive dining experience will see guests enjoy a family-style, four-course dinner featuring Sir John Kirwan’s JK.14 wines paired with exceptional local produce by Amano’s Executive Chef Andrew Hanson.
Bottomless Long Lunch
When & Where: Weekly, from the 17th of August — 29th of September at Non Solo Pizza Tickets:book here
NSP’s famed Long Lunch has gone bottomless. The lively eatery’s infamous Italian Long Lunch is a more than perfect way to spend a leisurely weekend afternoon, and during the Spring Festival, you can amp the convivial affair up with the addition of $49 bottomless prosecco. Here, enjoy a 3-course meal for $55 per person, alongside bottomless deals for prosecco, and a selection of Spring Spritzes. Sublime.
Bivacco Sunday Feast
The Sunday Feast with Jazz
When & Where: Weekly, from the 18th of August — 6th of October at Bivacco Tickets:book here
Make for Bivacco on Sundays to enjoy generous stations loaded with your favourite dishes and unlimited plates, plus live jazz from a local trio. Take advantage of drink specials, including champagne deals and $15 cocktails, as you end the week in satiating style, relishing the eatery’s perfect blend of great food, refreshing drinks, and live music.
Diamond Ladies Lunch
When & Where: Weekly, Monday — Saturday, from the 12th of August at Bivacco Tickets:book here
While the festival is running across eight glorious weeks, diamonds are forever, so don’t miss your chance to win a striking sparkler from Partridge Jewellers. Running Monday through Saturday from 11am — 3pm, Bivacco’s Diamond Ladies Lunch offers a relaxed lunch for a modest $45, which includes a glass of Cloudy Bay Pelorus and an entry into weekly prize draws.
When: Available at select Savor venues from August 12th Where:Bivacco, Non Solo Pizza, MoVida, Ebisu, Ortolana, Azabu Ponsonby & Azabu Mission Bay
Celebrate the Savor Food Festival with a selection of familiar favourites and inventive new dishes at Bivacco, NSP, MoVida, Ebisu, Ortolana, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay.
When: Sundays from 18th August — 29th September Where:Azabu Mission Bay
Sundays are sorted for the next 60 days at Azabu’s Mission Bay outpost, where you’ll find an exclusive platter to share featuring locally sourced meats from the robata grill, signature sushi, sashimi, and Azabu ceviche. Pair your meal with the lively eatery’s cocktail, wine, and beer specials from 11am — 3pm, and end the week in satiating style.
When: Saturdays from 31st August — 21st September Where:Ebisu
This is fresh at its best. Make for Ebisu, where, every Saturday a Japanese-style buffet with unlimited fresh sushi, sashimi, and crispy salads awaits. Enjoy champagne deals and $15 cocktails to complement your meal, as, from 12pm — 4pm, you indulge in the ultimate sushi feast.
Savor Food Fest 2024
Drinks & Dining Specials
$10 Peroni’s at Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo & Bivacco
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo & Bivacco
Across the festival’s entirety, sip on ice-cold Peroni at Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, and Bivacco, for a modest $10 a pop. The ultimate in spring satiation.
When:From August 12th Where:Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby & Azabu Mission Bay
Or, if Asahi’s super dry rice lager is your go-to libation, at Ebisu and Azabu’s Ponsonby and Mission Bay outposts, you’ll find $10 Asahi across August and September.
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, Bivacco, Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay, MoVida & Ortolana
Throughout the festival, those partial to a crisp glass of Moet et Chandon will find $17 flutes and $99 bottles at all participating venues (except Azabu Misson Bay, who will be pouring Mumm at the same price).
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, Bivacco, Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay, MoVida & Ortolana
Across many of the exceptional venues participating in the festival (a full list can be found here), revellers are invited to enjoy a selection of $15 cocktails all day, every day.
When:Weekly from 17th of August — 29th September Where:Bar Non Solo
At Bar Non Solo — the city’s unofficial (but undisputed) home of pizza and pasta, you’ll find a rotating edit of new pasta dishes across the festival, with a new flavour joining the fold weekly, available for a modest $20 come lunchtime. Bellissimo.
Amano Bakery’s serving up new creations every week
When:Weekly from 17th of August — 29th September Where:Amano Bakery
Amano, is serving up a new creation from the bakery every week for eight weeks, kicking off on August 17th. Indulge in eight exquisite new creations — four sweet and four savoury, unveiled weekly on Mondays via Instagram, and available exclusively at Amano Bakery.
There’s never a shortage of reasons to visit Ayrburn, from the stunning grounds to the exceptional hospitality to the ever-lively vibe, and this winter, the precinct has a full rota of exciting goings-on to make a trip all the more alluring.
With the spectacular mid-winter Christmas spectacle still taking over the grounds (and our social calendars), this month sees a number of events that are sure to inspire indulgence.
Christmas High Tea in the Woolshed
Christmas High Tea in The Woolshed
When: July 27th, 10am — 12pm, The Woolshed Bookings:book tickets here
An elevated affair to remember, Ayrburn have teamed up with local fashion designer Caitlin Crisp for a magical morning filled with festive cheer at the Christmas High Tea in The Woolshed. Here, guests are invited to indulge in seasonal treats, from traditional mince pies to luxurious sandwiches, paired perfectly with a selection of beverages, with all of those in attendance in to win a luxurious Caitlin Crisp winter cashmere bundle.
The Barrel Room Concert Nights
When: July 24th & 31st, The Barrel Room Bookings:book tickets here
Relax in the underground mystic charm of The Barrel Room while enjoying intimate and enchanting live music. From the dulcet tunes of native New Yorker Margaret O’Hanlon who, on July 24th, will bring the Big Apple to life in a wintery tour of New York’s most iconic names (Frank Sinatra, Alicia Keys, and Billy Joel, to name a few), to Charlotte Graf’s ‘Blue Christmas’ show, where rock and roll meets Tinseltown on July 31st, Ayrburn presents two alluring reasons to emerge from winter hibernation.
Après-ski at Ayrburn’s Manure Room
Après-ski at Ayrburn
When: Now until September 22nd, The Manure Room at Ayrburn Bookings:book here
With rousing DJ sets, winter specials, and delicious food, Ayrburn has become the home of Après, inviting slope-goers to round off the day well with daily drink deals from 4pm, food specials to refuel post-exertion, and, come Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, DJs taking to the decks to get the party started.
With Auckland’s winter cultural calendar already in full swing, there are a number of exciting happenings inspiring us to step outside of the comfort of our homes and immerse ourselves in the intoxicating nature of live events. And sitting at the top of our list is Synthony Pride — a music event like no other and a world-first new show, reimagining the world’s biggest dance and pop anthems with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia, along with instrumentalists, guest vocalists, dancers, drag queens and kings, and some of the country’s most celebrated musicians.
If you have plans to head along (or now feel inspired to secure tickets), we’ve compiled a discerning list of where to stay, eat, drink and celebrate around the event, encouraging you not just to make a night of it, but an entire weekend.
Where To Celebrate
Pre-Show
SkyCity’s Drag Queen bingo pre-party with Kita Mean
To get you well and truly in the spirit of the evening, SkyCity is hosting a Drag Queen bingo pre-party with Kita Mean. Look to the skies as the Sky Tower dresses in a fabulous dynamic rainbow light display, and start your night right with SkyCity at the official Synthony Pre-party where revellers are invited to make the most of the glam squad station (replete with false lashes, face gems and glitter galore), before partaking in an uproarious round of drag bingo — sure to set the tone for all that follows. There’s also free transportation for attendees, with complimentary buses running to and from Spark Arena for the first 200 people at Flare Bar.
Seasonal Arancini, Whipped Ricotta & Selection of Cured Meats and Cheeses from Bar Non Solo’s Pre-Show Menu
Bar Non Solo not only promises an ever-lively ambience, but also offers a bespoke Pre-Show Menu — perfect for those on their way to an event at Spark Arena. Available between 4pm and 7pm, for a mere $30 guests can dine on a selection of plates that includes marinated olives, whipped ricotta, seasonal arancini, cured meats and cheeses, and two delicious pizzas. It’s the perfect way to ensure you are satiated for an exciting night. Bookings for this experience are essential to ensure you arrive at Spark with plenty of time to spare.
Get things moving and grooving with Cafe Hanoi’s espresso martini
Cafe Hanoi (only a quick walk from Spark Arena) is open on Saturdays from 12 ’til late, meaning that parking up for an afternoon drink and bite (or convivial long lunch) is not only possible but encouraged. The eatery’s extensive and always delicious menu is filled with fare that will suitably line your stomach for an evening of moving and grooving, while the cocktails — including a bespoke espresso martini with Vietnamese coffee and gingerbread syrup, are sure to get the party started.
This iconic restaurant is small but mighty. Offering a curated and concise menu, and an intimate, calm setting, Ortolana is one spot to which we always find ourselves returning to in the Britomart precinct. With a delicious edit of sharing plates (and some incredibly tasty pasta options, too), a thoughtfully crafted drinks menu, and service that is always swift (if needed), a pre-event stopover at this stalwart eatery is always a treat.
Enjoy a delicious selection of contemporary delights at 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.
Where To Celebrate
Post-Show
Join Kita Mean alongside Tess Tickle & Rita Menu at SkyCity’s Afterparty
Continue the fun post-event and catch the Queens of SkyCity at the precinct’s uproarious afterparty. A resident DJ will keep the party going long into the evening, while the delightfully sinful ‘Queens of SkyCity’ midnight show will feature comedy master of ceremony Kita Mean alongside Tess Tickle and Rita Menu. They’ll be sure to bring their fabulous costumes, dance numbers and cheeky humour, inspiring revellers to finish the night off in style.
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.
Set in an atmospheric, underground spot on Queen Street, The Nightcar evokes after-dark sophistication with a film noir edge — with an impeccably crafted drinks list and late-night contemporary Chinese bites plus a number of tasty desserts. Open until 3am, this subterranean sanctuary is an ideal spot to make a night of it.
Recently opening on a rooftop within the Commercial Bay precinct, Queens Rooftop boats 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, delicious food, and one of the best drinks lists in town. Open from 11am ’til late seven days a week, here, you can grab lunch, a pre-event bite and glass of wine, or a post-event cocktail (or two) — taking in the incredible views from the comfort of the well-heated and always-lively rooftop terrace.
The perfect nightcap spot, on Palmer’s sweeping terrace
Taking cocktail hour to new heights, Palmer Bar is the central city bar and eatery with a positively elevated outlook. Whether you’re seeking a low-key daytime drink or a convivial post-event nightcap, Palmer’s inviting ambience and exceptional drinks menu always inspire another round. With a chic interior and sweeping terrace that provides the perfect alfresco spot to revel in a beautiful afternoon, and a roaring fire which takes centre-stage as the sun goes down, no matter the hour you visit, this is one spot guaranteed to deliver.
Gastronomic bliss and refined relaxation abound at SkyCity, where a more-than-perfect place to rest your head awaits. From a luxurious, five-star stay at The Grand by SkyCity, to a perfect platform for staying and playing in the city — SkyCity Hotel, to the city’s newest benchmark in luxury accommodation — Horizon Hotel, opening only two days before the event itself, here, there’s something for every kind of getaway.
Stay in one of The Hotel Britomart’s Landing Suites
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers exquisitely designed rooms (plus five suites) designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. With warm, modern interiors and located within close walking distance to Spark Arena, not to mention the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this centrally-located spot is a delightful place to rest your head.
Globally renowned hotel group InterContinental recently opened an Auckland outpost, occupying a coveted site on Auckland’s waterfront overlooking the harbour and offering guests direct and easy access to some of the best restaurants, bars and retail the city has to offer. But, given the hotel’s utterly luxurious rooms and in-house hospitality with Advieh, there will be little need to leave at all.
Drawn to the building’s history and charm, and seeing “so much unrealised potential,” Donna Hutchins and business partner Shaun Margan jumped at the opportunity to take over a striking heritage building in the heart of Henderson, transforming it into The Alderman — a charming neighbourhood café surrounded by native bush.
Hutchins and Margan both come to the new venture with 25 years’ experience in the industry, and, in seeking something new, were instantly inspired by the building The Alderman now occupies and it’s striking surrounds. “Our building was built in 1873, and was the first hotel in Henderson, so it has always been entrenched in the hospitality culture of the west,” says Hutchins, “As the current custodians of The Falls Hotel building, we want to keep the hospitality legacy going.” And so far, so good, with The Alderman already becoming a fixture in the local dining scene, with locals embracing the newcomer wholeheartedly. “The weekend vibe has been all about local families and dogs so far!” says Hutchins, “We have a lovely north-facing outlook to Falls Park, where the kids can explore nature too, and locals have been using the beautiful walkway and bike path to get to the eatery.”
Drawing inspiration from laid-back, relaxed daytime eateries in Melbourne and Sydney, the pair have kept the space simple — letting the building’s historic interiors and surrounds become the focal point, and leaning into the light and airy space. “The space gets all-day sun (when it’s shining), and the building is nestled next to a patch of native bush, giving it a lush, green outlook,” Hutchins tells me, saying that the pair called on friends for support in realising their vision, “Our friend Ryan Strawbridge from Our Projects was amazing, bringing our loose plans, drawn on a paper napkin, to life.”
The menu offers an approachable take on modern classics, from granola with warm vanilla custard and poached fruit to chilli scramble on sourdough on the breakfast menu, to chicken schnitzel with savoy and fennel slaw and 12-hour lamb shoulder flatbread on offer come lunch. The Alderman Big Breakfast and a tasty avocado cornbread feature on a concise menu that’s available to order all day. Hutchins’ favourites? The wagyu steak on sourdough with peppercorn sauce, and the Dusty Apron English muffin with pork and fennel sausage with Al Brown’s kasundi relish.
As for the drinks, you’ll find expertly prepared eighthirty coffee, alongside craft beers and a concise wine list — something the pair have plans to expand on as the weather warms and they begin to make the most of their covered outside area.
Ultimately, in The Alderman, Hutchins and Margan have created a laid-back spot where locals and those coming from further afield can enjoy a long lunch with friends or family, leaving feeling satisfied and relaxed.
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