Hospitality maestros Sid and Chand Sahrawat are opening the doors to a modern pan-Asian eatery tomorrow — the first in a series of new venues forming the couple’s reimagining of Sid at the French Café. Anise will occupy the space’s main dining area, bringing an artful, inventive take on Asian-inspired fare to what will soon become a mini dining precinct. Here, you’ll find a reception and bar area, two dining rooms, a private dining space, and a private wine cellar, all of which envelop a central courtyard reminiscent of an old French quarter; complete with a roaring fireplace, fragrant herb gardens, and plenty of space for al fresco dining.
Left: Gochujang and black truffle arancini. Right: Anise’s Back Dining Room
Anise’s Front Dining Room
When it comes to Anise’s fit-out, the inspiration here is undeniably Japanese — evident in the use of subtle textures, clean, minimal lines and the eatery’s serene ambience. The restaurant boasts three separate but connected spaces including a reception and bar area and two seperate dining areas — one of which opens out onto the generous internal courtyard. Diners will find simple, mahogany-finished tables atop plush carpet, with minimal, thoughtful decor throughout — punctuated with bold artwork.
The debut menu, imagined by Sid and head chef Tommy Hope, is designed for sharing. It pulls from a diverse range of cultures; from Japanese and Thai to Malaysian, Korean, Cambodian and Chinese, to offer a fresh take entirely. The resulting dishes are a true exploration of flavours; from Thai green curry beef short rib pies, and black pepper crab croustade with dashi and egg yolk sauce (an ode to Singapore’s ubiquitous chilli crab dish), to spicy buttermilk masala fried chicken sliders with ghost chilli mayo and pickle; masterstock pork belly caramelised with green apple; ginger and savoy cabbage (a perennial favourite in the Sahrawat household); tiger prawns with fermented pepper, yellow curry and XO; and sticky braised beef galbi (Korean short rib) with kimchi, carrot and puffed rice. A series of inventive desserts also feature.
When it comes to the all-important drinks offering, you’ll find an artfully crafted cocktail menu with a focus on fresh, tropical, and Asian ingredients — designed to complement the diverse culinary offering, alongside a unique wine selection that serves to highlight exquisite drops from the likes of Japan, Syria, Lebanon, and China.
Left: Black pepper crab croustade. Right: Baby corn
Anise’s Courtyard
Left: Anise’s Front Dining Room. Right: Tiger prawns.
Fans of Sid at The French Café will be pleased to learn they can still get their fix, although the Sahrawats have dropped the ‘Sid’ — reverting to the restaurant’s original name — and moved the premium offering (now once again dubbed The French Café) to a dining room on the opposite side of the courtyard.
Sid and Chand Sahrawat are stalwarts of the Auckland dining scene, and for good reason. Anise only further demonstrates their impressive ability (and willingness) to constantly evolve — and with its inventive, experimental menu, exceptional setting, and the names on the door, this new opening is perfectly primed to become yet another iconic eatery under their stewardship. Bookings are open now.
For those whose hosting accoutrements are yearning for a seasonal overhaul, there’s no better time for a refresh than now — timed to take advantage of The Studio of Tableware‘s impressive sale. Here, you’ll find discounts on most of the retailer’s highly coveted brands and pieces, comprising a varied range sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
On now, The Studio of Tableware’s summer sale is vast and all-encompassing, and in order to assist you to navigate the selection we’ve compiled a list of the pieces we are lusting over right now. From impossibly chic caviar sets and the widely-coveted cutlery egg, to elevated cookware, tableware, glassware, barware and more, we’re certain you’ll find something you adore. That said, we recommend getting in quick — these pieces won’t last long.
Top tip: Whilst most is available online, make for the Mount Eden showroom to discover an exclusive selection of clearance pieces, only available in-store.
Serving up inventive Japanese-Italian fare in the heart of Ponsonby, Itameshi is the tasty new fusion restaurant well worthy of your attention. The name Itameshi means Italian food in Japanese, and here, you’ll find a host of impressive dishes that combine the two cuisines beautifully, marrying the hearty, wholesome flavours of Italian fare with the fresh, lightness of Japanese dishes to create a new take entirely — and one that we can’t get enough of.
Lobster Bisque Pasta
With a calm, spacious fit-out by hospitality design studio, Millé, Itameshi (located on Williamson Ave) has all the makings of a chic Italian trattoria. Here, you’ll find deep wooden fittings, green-hued accents and hardy concrete flooring, with Japanese art scattered throughout adding a touch of playfulness and vibrancy to the space.
Perch at the marble-topped bar, or take to one of the leather-lined banquette seats throughout and select a cocktail before taking your time to peruse the concise, incredibly creative menu. If you’re visiting for brunch, you’ll find the likes of matcha green tea hotcakes (a dish made for Instagram), where a cluster of pillowy soft pancakes is topped with strawberry mascarpone, fresh fruit, and maple butter. Or if it’s savoury flavours that you’re craving, look no further than the unagi scramble sandwich, or the miso carbonara — sure to become an instant icon.
Matcha tiramisu
If it’s drinks and dinner that draws you in (cocktails are available from 10am, meaning drinks and brunch is also entirely acceptable), you’ll do well to start on a selection of snack plates to share. Our order? Spicy Karaage chicken with caviar, the Sicilian sashimi with orange sauce, onion, caper, parsley and shiso olive oil, and the delectable soy beef carpaccio with parmesan cheese, puff rice, soy sauce reduction land cress and spring onion oil .
Moving on to mains, while the brown butter ribeye and parmesan pork katsu are sublime, it’s the pasta dishes that truly bring the melding of these two disparate cuisines to life. The tomato beef cheek ragu with Japanese curry and spiced cheese is a flavour sensation that feels entirely new, while the Mentaiko house-made pasta with caviar and dashi butter sauce is perfection; the lobster bisque iteration with butter prawn, masago, and chive is a failsafe crowdpleaser. And you’re missing a trick if you don’t finish on the matcha tiramisu.
Sicilian sashimi
The drinks list is exceptionally considered, too, with coffee, matcha, and smoothies available alongside quenching cocktails (the sake martini is a must) and a curated wine list.
Bringing an entirely new style of fare to Auckland’s dining scene, it’s no surprise that Itameshi’s verdant booths are filling up fast. Be sure to get in quick.
InterContinental‘s new, 5-star hotel officially opens its doors in downtown Auckland on January 30th, gracing the city’s waterfront with not only an elevated new accommodation offering but an exceptional culinary one, too. Advieh, the hotel’s flagship eatery, is primed to quickly become one of the city’s most exciting new dining destinations, promising something fresh and unlike anything the city has seen before.
“I’m confident there is nothing like Advieh in Auckland and I’m looking forward to surprising guests in the best possible way and creating a world-class restaurant and bar experience.” Gareth Stewart, Partner Chef of Advieh, tells us. Stewart’s name alone speaks to Advieh’s promise, given his impressive resume and near 30-year career. In this latest venture, Stewart has tapped into the rich, vibrant flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine, crafting a truly unique food offering, served in a relaxed but lively setting.
Left: Gareth Stewart, Partner Chef of Advieh. Right: Turkish Eggs
Whole dry aged duck Tagine
When it comes to the menu, the diverse and experimental fare is designed to share, allowing diners to sample a number of bold and unforgettable dishes with each visit. Whether you’re in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or aperitivo, you’ll find a meticulously crafted offering that highlights locally grown, ethically sourced, incredibly fresh ingredients.
In the morning, the likes of hand-picked, seasonal fruit on ice, moreish toasted pretzels served with crushed avocado, guindilla peppers, fried halloumi and a perfectly poached egg topped with pistachio dukkha, and house smoked pastrami Benedict served with hash browns, mustard hollandaise and McClures pickles all feature on the menu. For those seeking indulgence, we suggest turning your attention to the full Advieh breakfast experience, which invites diners to enjoy a full selection from the eatery’s continental offering with an A la Carte item to accompany.
Those visiting for lunch can expect to find an exceptional expression of Middle Eastern flavours at their very best. The Kawhia Coast flounder on the bone with pistachio taratore and wild herbs is as delicious as it sounds, as is coastal lamb neck shawarma drizzled with buttermilk tahini, served with Advieh pickles and pea ezme. For the non-carnivorous, the pressed, grilled eggplant with caramelised whey, black tahini and spinach is a must. Finish on the impossibly delicious ice cream sandwich, served with almond spiced parfait and rose and golden peach confit. Sublime.
And while the breakfast and lunch menus are certainly impressive, the dinner menu is the pièce de résistance. Here, not only will you find the likes of mouthwatering crisp Kataifi, scampi and crayfish topped with tarragon mayo and black lime, and Advieh’s signature whole dry aged duck served with aromatic leg tagine, black lime, and pumpkin seed zhoug, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample the eatery’s banquets. Diners can opt for either the standard or signature banquet, available for $89 and $125 per person respectively. Each includes three curated courses, plus sides, serving up an exceptional insight into the diverse flavours of the Middle East — from raw kingfish with aleppo pepper cure, smoked tomato confit and dill, to southern station wagyu bavette topped with beetroot molasses, smoked buttermilk and sorrel, to fried cauliflower with pomegranate, tahini and brown butter yoghurt, and bitter chocolate cremieux, filo pastry, Manuka honey and pistachio ice cream — each course acting as an exploration of far flung places.
Left: Wagyu Shish. Right: Coastal lamb chop
Whole dry aged duck Tagine
Exceptional fare aside, the space itself is a sight to behold — as is to be expected given the name on the door and the impressive team behind the project (including Warren and Mahoney Architects and Melbourne’s Technē Architecture + Interior Design). Sleek, sophisticated and stylish, every aspect of the InterContinental Auckland’s fit out lives up to the elevated nature of its address — with Advieh’s design clearly inspired by some of the world’s most chic international eateries. The result is a dining destination that feels luxurious yet relaxed, and certainly stands apart from the crowd.
With views of Waitematā Harbour, an inventive, vibrant menu, and a truly world-class setting, Advieh is an upcoming opening that should definitely be on your radar. Bookings are open now, and we suggest securing your spot ASAP to experience something that feels entirely new.
Ayrburn, the spectacular new dining destination on the outskirts of Arrowtown, opened its doors in December and has already made an indelible mark on New Zealand’s culinary landscape. Boasting an impeccable setting and a number of exceptional venues, the sprawling precinct has (unsurprisingly) fast-become the place to be this summer and beyond, and this is just the beginning.
After revelling in the delights ourselves over the holidays, we thought it fitting that we share a few of the many reasons to visit this sublime spot.
Enjoy a perfect family day out
While the promise of convivial long lunches with friends is what holiday dreams are made of, in reality, when summer rolls around it’s more often than not that the kids take precedence. Luckily, Ayrburn caters exceptionally well to littles and their charges alike, with all manner of things to keep both entertained and well satiated. The Dell is the destination’s social lawn and a more than perfect spot to park up with kids for the afternoon, soaking in the peaceful setting. Here, you can roll out a blanket and grab a picnic basket from one of the surrounding eateries before settling in for the day. Time your visit well and you’ll also find live music, pop-up eateries, markets and events the whole family will enjoy. The kids will also do well to discover The Dairy nearby; a destination filled with whimsical sweet treats (including gelato) that promise to hit the spot every time, while parents can keep their glasses full at The Burr Bar or The Manure Room.
Take a walk to remember
We can attest to the fact that a simple stroll through Ayrburn’s surrounds are reason enough to plan a visit. Sitting in stark contrast to the rugged, mountainous ranges surrounding the precinct, the storybook grounds are a picture of perfection. From impeccably manicured gardens to rolling green hills, meticulously restored farm buildings, stone-lined streams, and russet and verdant trees providing smatterings of shade throughout, no detail has been missed. Carve out a morning to explore the ex-sheep farm, wandering from the entrance to the eateries and beyond, soaking up the calm, peaceful atmosphere before enjoying brunch on The Wooldshed’s sun-soaked deck.
Revel in Ayrburn’s many culinary delights
It would be remiss of us not to mention the reason that many of us make for Ayrburn — to experience the delights of the exceptional eateries. From delicious, family-friendly restaurants to intimate bars, picnic spots, a gelateria, and four more venues soon to open their doors, here, you’ll find something for every taste and proclivity. The Woolshed is Ayrburn’s casual, bistro-style eatery that promises day-to-night fare that the whole family will enjoy wholeheartedly. There, the philosophy is simple: quality reigns supreme, which means you’ll find delicious, uncomplicated food that is utterly enjoyable, served in a classically elegant setting. The Manure Room invites guests to immerse themselves in the world of Ayrburn wine within the dedicated wine bar and tasting space. Park up on one of the outdoor tables and soak in the sights while sampling a selection of truly exceptional wines and delectable bites. And for those seeking an intimate, cosy and quietly luxurious space to settle in for a drink or two, paradise is found at The Burr Bar.
Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch, a quick but satisfying bite, a tasty takeaway, or a perfectly brewed coffee to kick-start the day, there’s nothing quite like a casual eatery to fill the void. In Auckland, we’re spoilt for choice in this area, and 2023 has seen a host of new openings that only add to the city’s incredible culinary repertoire.
From grab-and-go joints turning out mouthwatering takeout to bakeries that would rival those in France, excellent cafes serving modern reimaginings of the classics, relaxed neighbourhood eateries, cult status pop-ups putting down permanent roots, and much, much more, this year has truly been one for the books.
Here, in no particular order, we’ve rounded up the very best new spots to grab a casual bite in the city.
Beabea’s, a laid-back bakery in the heart of Westmere, opened it’s doors earlier this month serving an elevated, inventive take on Kiwi classics in an incredibly relaxed setting. Here, you’ll find something unique but familiar, from mortadella and tomato sauce croissants (reminiscent of quintessentially Kiwi luncheon and sauce sandwiches), 90s square pies, and freshly baked bread (albeit not the tin loaves of times gone by, but fresh sourdough loaves and breadsticks instead). It’s all simply sublime.
At this cool new Mount Eden spot, you’ll find perfectly brewed coffee and tasty bites served in a laid-back space — the perfect place to park up for a morning brew. The menu is simple, accessible and delicious — a mix of mostly baguettes, sandwiches and scones. At Holiday, they take their coffee very seriously indeed with legendary Woo Hyung Lee (of Camper Coffee) taking the reigns, serving their own specialty roast alongside filter by Norway’s Tim Wendelboe and Korea’s Fritz.
Serving delectable Korean-style doughnuts with a twist, Mount Eden-based Small Mercies is the perfect drop-in for a sweet treat and a coffee. Here, you’ll find Kkwabaegi (a traditional Korean twisted doughnut), reimagined with a variety of delicious ever-rotating toppings — from Chocolate Orange to Tiramisu to Salted Caramel and more, served alongside Chapssal (glutinous rice doughnut balls) and Yakgwa (deliciously sweet, syrup-soaked biscuits), and perfectly-brewed Red Rabbit Coffee or matcha, or a refreshing cup of housemade lemonade.
Wheatz Bakery is the tasty new bakery with outposts in both Albany and the CBD specialising in cute little stuffed croissants, petite and perfect Swiss Rolls and a very glorious croissant-doughnut hybrid that looks like a stack of hot waffles. Here, your pastries can (and should) be washed down with something from the expansive drinks menu — such as bubble tea, fresh fruit tea, drinkable yoghurt and sweet iced lattes, among all the usual caffeinated suspects.
Having recently opened on Ponsonby Road, Pilar Cafe & Eatery is a relaxed spot serving perfectly roasted Rocket coffee, friendly service and unique daytime fare that marries Asian-fusion flavours with classic European brunch. The result is a must-try cafe that puts an unexpected twist on those dishes that are perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast or a quick before-work bite — the fluffy blueberry pancake served with bacon and red-wine poached pear is just one example, and a must when visting.
Those who find themselves in need of a caffeine hit like clockwork would do well to discover Cafe Perch, the Freemans Bay cafe catering to all of our workday needs. Conveniently found in an enlarged, foyer-style space on Hargreaves Street, this destination is the perfect addition for anyone in the area, whether for a coffee on the fly, a fresh sandwich for lunch, or a place to perch for a while in the middle of a busy workday. When Denizen visited, the cabinets were stocked with delicious Chicken Caesar Wraps, Korean Chicken Sandos and Veggie Pides, as well as some fresh toasties, frittatas and slices — offering something to suit any taste or need.
Devonport’s newest all-day eatery quickly made waves across the harbour. Dulcie brings a touch of Melbourne sophistication to Auckland’s brunch scene, offering a delectable menu designed to be enjoyed all day long, featuring the classics done well. Here, Eggs Benedict is served on a cacio e pepe hash brown with a burnt butter hollandaise, while Pancakes come topped with blueberry compote, elderflower and lemon syrup, coconut whip and pistachio. Serving inventive food in a truly picturesque setting, 15 meters from the sand, Dulcie offers something new to our brunch scene and we can’t get enough.
Sandringham-based neighbourhood coffee spot Everyday Coffee opened its doors back in June and fast became a favourite amongst locals. Here, expertly-brewed coffee currently takes precedence; baristas serve fresh Allpress coffee, and an ever-changing filter brew is always on offer and a favourite amongst regulars. Alongside a counter of Daily Bread pastries and doughnuts, Everyday now offers a full bagel service (and having had a taste ourselves, we can attest to the fact that these are seriously good).
With new owners, a fresh space and a new evening offering, Queenies returned this year, better than ever before. The Freeman’s Bay institution is now in the exceptional hands of Fran Mazza and her husband Aaron Carson, (responsible for the likes of Sugar at Chelsea Bay, Rude Boy Deli, Winona Forever, and so many more), and after taking a short break from hospitality, the duo is now breathing new life into the eatery — now named Queenies Caffé and Vino. From its verdant exterior to its sun-soaked tables to its intimate vibe, this is about as charming a neighbourhood spot as you could imagine, and as well as beautifully reimagining the daytime menu, the pair has introduced an evening service, transforming the bustling cafe into an elegant wine bar — a perfect spot to park up for an after-work wine or a post-dinner drink and dessert.
Having taken over the iconic corner spot on Jervois Road that once housed Jess’ Underground Kitchen, Honey Sundays is a delightful drop-in serving perfectly brewed Allpress coffee and tasty cabinet treats (from local producers), as well as offering a selection of impressive surfboards, surf wax and wetsuit-style swimwear. It is a unique but appealing hybrid — easy brunch spot meets laid-back retail space — with the vision behind Honey Sundays being to not only create a cool, cruisy cafe for locals, but also, to have a place in the City where surfers could find boards and wax without having to venture to a mall (a need she discovered after falling in love for the wave-chasing sport herself). Superb.
Those with a penchant for something sweet have likely already discovered Ponsonby’s Manis, the unique bakery concept where Paris and Bali collide. Manis, translating to ‘sweet’ in the owners’ native Indonesian tongue, is a tasty collision of cultures, offering traditional Balinese pastries like martabak (a sweet pancake) and pie susu (a sweet milk tart) alongside French viennoiserie — including a number of variations on the classic croissant. There are also plenty more savoury pastry options (from pain au pesto and salami croissants to mouthwatering, filled house made rolls) — perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome workday lunch.
If you’ve found yourself in Helensville of late, you might have stumbled upon The Butcher Baker — a true farm-to-table style restaurant harnessing the best of locally-grown and foraged produce. Drawing on his tenure at local institutions like Honey Bones and Odettes, as well as his experience in some of the world’s biggest culinary hubs, owner Reginaldo Richard set out to create something of his very own that offers locals and those coming from further afield something unique. Here, the menu centres on the very best seasonal produce, sourced from local suppliers and foraged by Richard himself, cooked in new and innovative ways. The result is some seriously spectacular flavours, served in a laid-back but decidedly cool setting the whole family can enjoy.
Brothers Blues and Harry Shim fell in love with Asia’s diverse and varied breakfast culture while living and traveling the continent — their passion inspiring them to draw upon their collective experiences and create a breakfast-inspired spot of their own in Auckland’s CBD. Toastie is a concept that pulls from a variety of unique breakfast offerings across Asia, and the result is a deliciously distinct hole-in-the-wall eatery with a menu featuring a range of mouth-watering toasties that pay homage to different countries, including Kaya Toast, Sweet Travel and Egg Drop Toast.
Known for serving Auckland’s most legendary smash burgers, Baby G finally put down permanent roots and the loyal legions flocked. Baby G founder, American-born Cam Blanchard, is widely credited as serving some of the best burgers in Auckland courtesy of his signature, American-style smash patties (boasting unbelievably crispy edges and a thick, flavoursome centre), sitting between pillowy soft buns, with fuss-free fillings — usually a combination of American cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, mayo and/or hot sauce. You’ll find these, plus a concise edit of Baby G hits on the menu — with something for the veggies too.
Foodie favourite Eden Noodles set up shop in Commercial Bay this year, bringing its authentic hand-pulled noodles and undeniably delectable dumplings to hungry city-siders. Eden Noodles has long been a household name in Auckland, adored by all, and its enduring menu featuring the famous hand-crafted pork dumplings in spicy sauce and classics such as wide noodles in soup and Dan Dan sauce and fresh cucumber salad, stand as a shining example of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’.
Serving epic, free-range fried chicken, Brew’d Hawt is the new spot in the city worthy of your attention. Following the success of a first venue in Manukau, Brew’d Hawt’s Victoria Street outpost offers city-dwellers an eatery where the food is bold, inventive and high quality. Brew’d Hawt promises recipes meticulously tested and crafted to ensure it retains flavour and crunch, even when picked up as a takeaway and eaten 20 minutes later; the menu boasts fried chicken in its myriad forms — from wings to burgers to sides and more, served alongside delectable desserts and a considered selection of drinks.
Known for its epic birria tacos and hugely popular pop-ups, the iconic Broke Boy Taco finally opened a permanent spot this year, and the loyal legions are grateful for it. Here, the space is pared-back and charming with hand-painted signs and virtually no decor, while the menu is similarly fuss-free, with Yarbrough’s signature tacos at the forefront. For those who aren’t familiar with birria, it’s a type of meat stew that is a mainstay of Mexican cuisine, made by marinating beef in adobo sauce before its cooked slowly in broth until mouthwateringly tender and full of flavour — and Yarbrough’s is as good as it gets.
At Munch, a cool eatery dedicated to serving mouthwatering Korean fried chicken, the motto is delicious food, high-quality ingredients and accessible prices, and it would seem that it delivers on all fronts. There you’ll find an array of Korean fried chicken dishes that play with different flavours, whether you prefer something spicy or something more indulgent. From the O.G. Crispy (Munch’s golden-brown, crispy chicken, encased in the team’s secret blend of herbs and spices) to the gochujang-coated iteration that sees sweet and savoury flavours harmonise perfectly, plus a plethora of inventive dishes and sides, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Sitting pretty in the space formerly home to the Food Truck Garage in City Works Depot is Tacoteca, an impressive eatery serving authentic Mexican in house-made tortillas. For taco enthusiasts, this is the place to be, with a concise but perfected selection of handmade blue tortilla tacos featuring fresh, market fish, rich lamb barbacoa and vegan smoky cabbage on offer. Elsewhere on the menu there’s indulgent sharing plates and the all-important margarita list, with many an iteration to make your way through over the summer months.
Housed in Papakura’s elevated new food court is Hei Hei, a delicious fried chicken spot from the team behind Passa Passa. The offering is simple but undeniably delicious — and fried chicken, unsurprisingly, informs every meal. Hot chicken wings and southern-style sides join a concise burger menu, and with each order, diners choose just how hot their chicken comes, from ‘naked’, for those who are a little timid when it comes to spice, all the way through to ‘flaming hot’. Open for both lunch and dinner, this new South Auckland eatery is the place to head when a craving for comfort food strikes — make sure to add a side of mac and cheese, and thank us later.
For those seeking an intimate, cosy and quietly luxurious space where refuge is taken and senses are soothed, paradise is found at The Burr Bar — an impossibly quaint watering hole nested in the centre of Ayrburn‘s sprawling hospitality precinct on the outskirts of Arrowtown.
Here, the past and present collide; wander through the impeccably manicured grounds before reaching a stone farm cottage where weathered, timber-framed windows are set in a stacked stone facade — the roof a sheet of rugged corrugated steel; the front door a hinged barn gate. Inside, you’ll find stone walls adorned with metal and wooden shelving packed with all manner of libations, sumptuous leather and timber banquette seating, and a pitched roof of heavy exposed beams.
When it comes to the all-important list of libations, the inventive cocktail menu nods to the site’s heritage with a number of tipples themed for a country garden setting. Our order? ‘An Ode to Adrian’, where Ayrburn Noble Riesling is paired with vodka, crème d’apricot, blood orange tea and a hint of fresh lemon, and ‘The Green Lady’, which is the perfect mix of savoury and tart, muddling lemon-infused gin and limoncello with fresh citrus and basil, resulting in the perfect summer satiation.
Elsewhere on the menu, an extensive list of wines is largely focused on Ayrburn’s very own vintages; spanning everything from textural whites to brooding reds, fruit-forward rosé, rich late harvests, sparkling, and everything in between. Alongside this, you’ll find a small selection of international wines available, as well as a concise beer list, barrelled spirits, and The Burr Bar’s signature non-alcoholic iced tea, made with fresh herbs from the surrounding gardens.
Of course, given Ayrburn’s impeccable culinary team, the food is utterly divine — expertly crafted to pair with the drinks on offer. From classic beef tartare with Bloody Mary dressing and crisp potato, to lamb and pork meatballs with shaved Grana Padang, green olive, anchovy and guindilla pepper gildas, crisp artichoke with romesco, pickled shallots and cheddar, and much, much more, here, there’s something to compliment anything you opt to imbibe.
From its refined interior to its carefully curated, thoughtful drinks offering to the impeccable menu that speaks to our local landscape, The Burr Bar is everything a bar should be — inviting, intimate and incredibly well-appointed. There’s no better spot to kick back, relax, and celebrate the year that’s been (and the one ahead).
Ayrburn‘s doors officially opened last weekend, and thanks to its impeccable setting and exceptional venues, the sprawling precinct is already making its mark on New Zealand’s dining scene. Last week, we reported on the delights of The Woolshed, a casual, bistro-style eatery promising day-to-night fare that the whole family can enjoy. Now, it’s The Manure Room that we turn our attention to — an atmospheric wine bar and tasting room where guests are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Ayrburn wine.
At The Manure Room, you can soak up a sense of incredible history as you sip your way through some of the region’s very best wines in a setting that’s like nothing you’ve seen before.
In fact, the history of The Manure Room dates back to 1918. Ayrburn occupies the site that was once home to one of the South Island’s oldest sheep farms, and in the farmhouse, now sitting pretty as the destination’s wine bar and tasting room, a manure store once existed. In the early 1900s Australia banned manure exportation at around the same time New Zealand was in the throes of an alcohol prohibition — but Ayrburn’s original owner William Paterson was a resourceful character, quickly transforming a spare barn into a place to stockpile manure, then using that undesirable space to hide banned alcohol — knowing full well that the aroma would turn away even the most diligent inspector faster than you could say ‘hidden speakeasy’.
Over a century later, you’ll still find an impressive libation collection (sans the secrecy and scent of manure) housed in a space perfectly suited to enjoying a leisurely afternoon with friends over a flight of wine, exceptional cocktails and a spread of delectable fare.
Inside, The Manure Room’s cosy, sumptuous space is enveloped in local materials that pay homage to the site’s historical roots. Stacked schist lines the walls, original exposed timber ceilings sit overhead, and sleek, minimalist steel shelving adorns the walls — housing an incredible selection of wine. Perch on one of the comfy stools at the marble-topped bar to get in on the action, settle in for an evening with friends in one of the sumptuous booths, or grab a spot at the dimly-lit communal table. On a summer’s day, there’s nowhere else to be but on the sprawling deck out front, perfectly positioned to take in the site’s stunning surrounds.
When it comes to the wine offering, guests are invited to explore the nuanced flavours, aromas, and complexities of Ayrburn’s own vintages alongside a handpicked selection of local and international drops. Opt for a hosted tasting and you’ll be guided through the Central Otago sub-regions, experiencing a curated flight of exceptional wines that act as a comment on the local landscape. Grab a bottle or two each on your way out the door, and the tasting fee is waived. Or, for those with more particular tastes, you can do your own thing, picking and choosing from the impressive selection on offer.
As for the all-important food, The Manure Room’s inventive tapas menu couldn’t be more perfectly suited to the vibe and location. Here, you’ll find tasting plates and boards of cured meats available alongside delectable morsels such as oysters with Ayrburn rosé jelly, chicken liver pâté on brioche served with caramelised onion and chive, and classic beef tartare with bloody Mary dressing and crisp potato. Or, if you want to keep things casual, grab a glass or cocktail and one of The Manure Room’s picnic bags and make for the The Dell — Ayrbun’s communal lawn set in the centre of the precinct.
The Manure Room, like all of Ayrburn’s dwellings, is designed to transport you to a different time entirely. Here, the drink selection, food and vibe are as impressive as the spectacular setting itself — a place we plan to while away many a leisurely afternoon at this summer.
Soon to be constructed in the highly sought-after suburb of Parnell, York House is the latest luxury residential offering from Precinct Properties. Lauded local architects Monk Mackenzie were tasked with the development’s design, and the result is a sculptural set of 33 elegant apartments elevated over three levels, plus an additional eight exclusive private penthouses rising above on the top floors.
Rangiototo and the Waitematā fill York House’s vista to the north-east, and to the north-west, penthouse residents will have an unobstructed view of the downtown cityscape. On the southernmost side, leafy urban views frame the Auckland Domain.
A slightly concave facade creates the impression of the building peeling in from each street corner, adding a subtle sense of sculpture to the overarching modern language. Imbued within the building are clever, creative responses to the Tamaki Makaurau environment, including charcoal concrete pleating in the facade surfacing that emulates the city’s volcanic bedrock, and a vertical ribbed structure that creates an impressive interplay of natural light and shadow along the curvaceous form.
Each individual space has been tailored and crafted to perfection, with no detail left untouched. When it came time to consider interiors, renowned interior designer Amelia Holmes was an obvious choice, bringing her penchant for pitch perfect materiality and refined luxury to the project. The material palette at York House is a masterclass in contemporary opulence; well appointed kitchens, fitted with sleek Gaggenau or Miele appliances, are anchored by travertine stone or honed arabescato island benching while sleek floor-to-ceiling walnut cabinetry conceals a fully equipped scullery. Elsewhere, timeless timber, natural ceramic tiles and hardy concrete ensure enduring appeal.
Each space sees meticulously appointed living and entertainment areas that seamlessly blend with the outdoors, flowing with ease onto expansive terraces towards the spectacular views. On the building’s lowest level, a private wine cellar makes for an intimate social space to sample personal collections.
A short 10-minute walk will see residents on the doorstep of Parnell’s lively shopping district where the likes of Faradays, Non Solo Pizza, Lamplight Books and Parnell Gallery await.
A perfect counterpoint to the heritage architecture and industrial commercial spaces Parnell is known for, York House is set to become a modern icon of luxury urban living. Exclusively available via New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, and with construction set to commence mid-2024, those interested in learning more would be advised to do so in haste, as demand is unsurprisingly high for this new benchmark of apartment living.
The season for giving is upon us, and while selecting the perfect gifts for our families and friends is one of life’s greatest joys, giving to those less fortunate is perhaps an even more fulfilling feat. This Christmas, consider the latter and support one of the worthy causes we’ve rounded up here. If you fancy going one step further, call on your friends and family and inspire them to do the same — the more the merrier, we say.
GIVE THE GIFT OF CHOICE
The Kindness Collective’s Christmas Joy Store is one of the very best ways to spread some Christmas cheer this silly season. Operating throughout December, The Christmas Joy Store gives the parents and caregivers of the 50,000+ children struggling this Christmas the ability to shop for presents and food, at no cost, ensuring absolutely no child goes without. Injecting both kindness and dignity into the holiday, the initiative invites families to choose gifts and treats for their children, selecting what they know they’ll love, off the shelves, meaning a more personal approach is taken. The options to support are plentiful: become a Secret Santa, match with a family, donate to feed a family, or simply give what you can. Every little bit counts.
EAT OUT, DO GOOD
There’s a huge amount of food waste and food poverty happening in New Zealand, and the incredible team at Everybody Eats are tackling these issues head-on, one meal at a time. Across three venues (two in Auckland, one in Wellington), the charity serves chef-prepared, pay-as-you-feel food, using ingredients that would otherwise be destined for the bin. This Christmas, they’ll see even more families in need through their doors, and salvage even more unused or unsold food, and they need your support to keep up the good work. You can help them by making a donation online, giving gift cards to family and friends (every $10 spent feeds two people in need), signing up to volunteer at one of their locations and more.
SPREAD FESTIVE CHEER
Sonya Wilson’s charity Kiwi Christmas Books has one objective — to ensure that no child goes without literature. We’re all aware of just how essential reading is to the growth and development of young minds, but sadly, books are something that many don’t have access to across New Zealand. Luckily, Kiwi Christmas Books is here to help, rallying New Zealanders who are already in the gift-giving spirit to buy and donate books this Christmas. The charity accepts baby books, picture books, chapter books, middle grade, young adult and everything in between — even better if they’re by a local author or illustrator. The donation scheme runs until December 14th, so head out to your local independent bookstore and change the Christmas of a deserving Kiwi kid.
FOSTER HOPE
Bringing a little sunshine and hope to New Zealand’s most vulnerable children, Foster Hope collects new, unwrapped Christmas presents for those in care throughout New Zealand, delivering them a gift just in time for Christmas. Sadly, the festive season is a peak time for children needing support from protection agencies and emergency service facilities, so this year, brighten the day of a child in need and donate a present via one of Foster Hope’s drop-off points country-wide. While the official cut-off date for gifts is the 5th of December, the sooner the team can gather gifts, the more time they have to distribute them to social workers around the country, so get shopping!
HELP GET KIDS HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
We all know of the exceptional work Starship does year-round, but at Christmas time their focus is turned to getting as many sick or injured little ones home to their families for the festive period — kids are the beating heart of Christmas, after all. A donation at this time of year goes towards world-class paediatric care, lifesaving treatments, research, and training to ensure the team at Starship are fully equipped to get more kids well enough to make it home. We can’t think of a better cause than that.
KIWIS HELPING KIWIS
Well-versed in making the lives of busy Kiwis easier, this Christmas, My Food Bag is turning their attention to charity — making it easier than ever to lend a helping hand to those doing it tough. The food delivery box is pulling a reverse trick, teaming up with NZ Post to offer donation collections in the lead up to Christmas, dropping any food items donated by generous Kiwis to the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch City Missions. So, add a few extra items to your trolley during this week’s shop, pop them in an old My Food Bag delivery box, and book a collection — it’s that simple.
GIVE THE GIFT OF SAFETY
It’s heartbreaking to think that domestic violence peaks during the holiday season. While many of us are making Christmas dinner plans and deciding on the perfect gifts for our loved ones, many New Zealanders are simply looking for a safe place to spend the festive season with their families. Women’s Refuge do incredible work in this space, housing women and children subject to domestice violence, and they’ve made it exceptionally simple to support them in doing so, this Christmas and beyond. By donating just $20, you can ensure a safe night for someone experiencing family violence, including a place to stay, hot meals, security, and advice. Gift as many nights as your means will allow, and together we can make sure no New Zealanders are at risk this holiday season.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
