Ram Laddoo.

Experience Indian street food at its finest with this new Parnell opening 

Get ready to tantalise your taste buds with an authentic Indian street food experience like no other. Chaat Street Auckland is set to take Parnell’s main strip by storm this week, with its doors set to open this Saturday. Adopting a modern, tapas-style approach to traditional street food, Co-owner and Chef Vaibhav Vishen is proving to Kiwis yet again that flavourful Indian dishes go beyond the dated trope of just another spicy curry, and is serving up mouth-watering dishes in the process.

The winning Burger Wellington 2022 ‘Dabeli’.

Everywhere Chaat Street has gone, it has been a hit. In 2021, it became an overnight success at a Visa Wellington on a Plate pop-up, serving 2,000 punters in just two days. One year later, opening as a sit-down restaurant on Te Aro’s Victoria Street, Chaat Street dished up 3,400 burgers to win the covetable Burger Wellington. The champion creation ‘Dabeli’ was like no other — a crispy, spiced potato patty paired with Fix & Fogg’s Smoke and Fire peanut butter, coriander, crispy chickpea noodles and tamarind chutney in a masala butter brioche bun.

Vishen chose Chaat Street’s flagship Auckland location for its rustic character, the fit-out designed to resemble a street food stall in an English-built railway station. Here, the menu takes inspiration from dishes all over India, and there’s something for everyone. Highlights include the Kashmiri Kanti (pan-tossed lamb with tomatoes and Kashmiri chillies served with Kulcha (flatbread)) and Aloo Tikki Chaat (skillet potato stuffed with crunchy lentils alongside yoghurt, zesty tamarind and mint chutneys). Each dish maintains authenticity in flavour through varying spice levels — diners can add heat with green chilli and other condiments as desired, perhaps washing down their meal with a thirst-quenching chilli margarita.

Left to right: Peach Sharbat cocktail, Shakarakandi Ki Chaat.

To experience Chaat Street is to immerse yourself in a culture rich in tradition and heritage. Vishen encourages diners to come with an open mind and to try the customary way of eating with their hands for a truly multi-sensory experience. After all, ‘chaat’ is a Hindi word meaning ‘to lick’, the term originating from the street food stalls in Old Delhi where the food spiked with salt (to kill bacteria from the water) was so flavourful that people would end up licking their fingers.

Moong Dal Ki Chaat.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a delectable snack or a thoroughly indulgent dining experience, reserve your table at Chaat Street Auckland here for the chance to experience the best of India in one sitting.

Chaat Street

320 Parnell Road
Parnell
Auckland 1052

Gastronomy

Your first look at Blue — the buzzy new eatery in the heart of Ponsonby that everyone’s talking about
Askal is bringing its modern Filipino fare to Auckland for two nights only — here’s what you need to know
Savour the best of the season at Gather & Toast: SkyCity’s winter celebration

Soho Home is now available for the first time in New Zealand, exclusively at Design Central

The global, members-only phenomenon that is Soho House comprises a number of exceptional, design-led properties in major cities around the world. It is a brand renowned for the unique environments it creates, offering rest and comfort as well as meeting, working and entertaining spaces to its community of creatives.

And while we might not have our own Soho House here, tapping into its vibe has never been easier, thanks to the much-anticipated arrival of Soho Home in New Zealand. Available for the first time ever, exclusively from Design Central, design lovers can choose pieces from the brand’s luxurious furniture, lighting, textiles and dining accessories, allowing you to mirror the look and feel of Soho House’s international establishments, and infuse your spaces with some of the same kind of intangible magic.

Here, we round up some of our picks from the exceptional new Soho Home pieces to have just landed at Design Central.

Lovett Chair in Cinnamon Velvet

Boasting a beautifully-curved shape inspired by mid-century Italian design and a cotton velvet cover in a deep cinnamon colour, the Lovett Chair promises to be a standout piece in any space. Taking inspiration from the Soho House’s Ludlow House in Manhattan, this chair is as comfortable to sit in as it is enchanting to look at.

Swift Side Table

Inspired by pieces found at Soho House’s original location on London’s Greek Street, the Swift Side Table boasts a sturdy, minimal profile, with an eye-catching, green marble top and a sturdy metal frame that will suit both modern and traditional interiors.

Alma Vase

Cut from natural red marble with distinctive veining, the Alma Vase has been made to mirror the marble decor seen in 180 House in London and is the perfect addition to any bookshelf, table or sideboard.

Oxley Coffee Table in Dark Emperador Marble

Mirroring the kinds of styles you might find at Soho House’s Hong Kong chapter, the Oxley Coffee Table is a statement piece that demands attention. Made from dark emperador marble characterised by dark brown tones and white veining, this piece is the perfect anchor for any space.

Prato Bookends

The perfect addition to any bookshelf, the Prato Bookends are made from Rosso Le Vanto marble (renowned for its incredible, deep-cherry tones and white veining) and boast a clean, right-angle structure broken only by the spheres in the corners.

Juliana Chandelier

Destined to add drama to your space, the Juliana Chandelier is carefully crafted from Venetian Glass, and is reminiscent of the similar designs hanging at Soho House’s Dumbo House. The chandelier features dozens of rose-tinted, scalloped glass tubular sections which have each been mouth-blown and hand finished to spectacular effect in Venice.

Tisbury Coffee Table

Another piece inspired by the natural stone motifs at 180 House in London, the Tisbury Coffee Table is crafted from Fantasy brown marble (an Indian stone that is more durable than traditional white marble) and boasts three sturdy, cylindrical legs that give it a compelling, sculptural quality.

Marcel Media Unit

Taking style cues from Soho House Rome, the Marcel Media Unit is crafted from solid oak and is defined by sharp edges and square-cut ridges that deliver a unique, geometrical design. Fitted with two cupboards, this is the perfect piece on which to perch your TV or hide away tchotchkes or books.

Kyoto Chandelier

Transporting us to Soho House’s White City House in London, the Kyoto Chandelier speaks to a more minimalist, Japanese-style aesthetic. Here, a muted palette has been employed via its soft, oatmeal-tone shade crafted from white linen.

Jermyn Chopping Board with Knife

An essential piece for anyone who loves to host at home, the Jermyn Chopping Board and Knife presents as a stunning set. Hand cut in India from weighty, forest-green marble, the rounded oval shape of the board is reflected in the handle of the knife, which has then been finished with a brushed-brass blade.

Design

Discover Matchbox — an alluring new destination for car enthusiasts
Your first look at Kelly Wearstler’s latest collaborative collection
We chat to revered designer Karim Rashid on functionalism, following his intuition, and how design can shape the future

Soul Bar & Bistro’s beloved rosé month makes a highly-anticipated return to our dining calendar

As the colours of Autumn start to paint the landscape and the air grows cooler, it’s time to embrace the changing of the seasons and indulge in a little celebration. And what better way to revel in the moment than rosé month at Soul Bar & Bistro, where indulgence is always the order of the day?

This March, the undefeated celebration destination takes the season’s romantic allure and turns up the heat with a perfectly pink theme. From delectable drinks to sumptuous treats, Soul has curated a selection that will envelop you in the rosy glow of the moment. Savour a pink cocktail, indulge in some bubbles, wine or gin — whatever your preference, their most beloved bartenders (under the guidance of Bar Manager Katie Cramphorn) have you covered with an array of options that will leave your palate tingling with delight.

For those seeking the most sumptuous pink experience, Soul has a vast selection of rosé champagnes poised to make any moment feel like a special occasion. And, of course, the pink experience does not stop there. Soul is inviting its guests to sample a flight of New Zealand’s best rosés, taking in the diverse flavours and aromas that make this country a standout destination for wine lovers. And with the venue adorned in an extravaganza of pink, you will be transported to a world of sophistication and a little whimsy.

Whether you choose to sip your pink drink indoors or outside, come rain or shine, Soul beckons you to bask in the rosy glow of the season. With its unwavering commitment to quality drinks and treats and its perennially chic ambience, Soul Bar & Bistro is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to make a statement this Autumn. So come, raise a glass — the rosé is flowing, and the cause for celebration is finally here.

Gastronomy

Your first look at Blue — the buzzy new eatery in the heart of Ponsonby that everyone’s talking about
Askal is bringing its modern Filipino fare to Auckland for two nights only — here’s what you need to know
Savour the best of the season at Gather & Toast: SkyCity’s winter celebration
Sapore di Malfy at Síso.

Sìso is transporting us to the Amalfi Coast with this convivial, month-long pop-up 

The Amalfi Coast’s beauty is found in its breathtaking surroundings and delectable Mediterranean cuisine, and beloved Remuera establishment Síso is replicating this very essence with its upcoming ‘Sapore di Malfy’ series.

From the 8th of March to the 12th of April, Sìso’s Sapore di Malfy menu will offer a raft of exquisite bites and thirst-quenching cocktails. Each beverage will incorporate one of the four Malfy Gin varietals, from ‘The Santorini Sunset’, a zesty and vibrant infusion of Malfy Con Arancia, Aperol, Liqueur Farigoule, lemon and egg whites, to ‘Under The Tuscan Sun’, a rich, fruity concoction of Malfy Con Limone, Crème de Mure, lemon, raspberry and Deutz Rosé.

From left: Under the Tuscan Sun, Mediterranean G&T and Santorini Sunset cocktails, Malfy Mezze.

We suggest you savour these sophisticated beverages with the flavoursome Saporo di Malfy offering, which includes succulent Bluff oysters and a lavish Malfy Mezze. A fresh feast for two, the latter is a delectable platter that includes stone-baked sourdough flatbread with nduja butter, market fish crudo with heirloom tomatoes and shaved stone fruits, marinated Lebanese cucumber with buttermilk curds and lemon za’atar, and smoked prosciutto with burrata.

From left: Malfy Gin Rosa, Malfy Amore Mio cocktail.

A lavish affair transporting us to sun-kissed summer days on the Italian coast, a taste of Sapore di Malfy should not go amiss.

Síso

311 Remuera Road
Remuera
Auckland 1050

www.sisobarandeatery.co.nz

Gastronomy

Your first look at Blue — the buzzy new eatery in the heart of Ponsonby that everyone’s talking about
Askal is bringing its modern Filipino fare to Auckland for two nights only — here’s what you need to know
Savour the best of the season at Gather & Toast: SkyCity’s winter celebration
NZ International Fraud Film Festival
Florence + The Machine
Auckland Arts Festival

March Culture Guide: Everything to do, see and book this month

As we find ourselves well and truly into the swing of the year, a calendar packed with cultural events is keeping us excited for the months ahead. From fairs and festivals to some of the biggest names in music, here is our full March Culture Guide to satiate your creative needs this season.

March Culture Guide: Aotearoa Art Fair

Aotearoa Art Fair

One of the most exciting cultural events of 2023, the Aotearoa Art Fair, is returning once again to Auckland’s The Cloud. Offering collectors and art-lovers the chance to view and buy pieces from leading galleries showcasing the work of more than 180 artists, the March edition will see new galleries, new artwork, more international artists, large-scale sculpture works and so much more.
Wednesday, 1st March — Sunday, 5th March, The Cloud

March Culture Guide: Harry Styles

Harry Styles

Finally bringing the show we have seen so much on social media to our shores, man of the moment Harry Styles will give the performance of his life, with the Auckland show marking the end of his Love On Tour extravaganza. Expect the full discography of his new certified bops, alongside a few older classics (One Direction, we’re looking at you), to make the night one of our most memorable yet.
Tuesday, 7th March, Mt Smart Stadium

Flamingo Pier

Having been postponed from its earlier date with recent weather events, this weekend sees the much-awaited return of Flamingo Pier to Waiheke Island. Set at the picturesque Rangihoua Estate and now into its ninth year, the festival is a haven for lovers of dance music — featuring some of our favourite local names like Nathan Haines and Jaimie Webster Haines, alongside internationals Harvey Sutherland, Panorama Bar regular Gabrielle Kwarteng and Dekmantel favourite Suze Ijó.
Friday, 3rd March — Sunday, 5th March, Rangihoua Estate

Wicked: The Musical

In this captivating tale, we are invited to witness the emergence of an improbable, yet profound bond between two young women who meet as sorcery students at Shiz University. Glinda, the adored and fair-haired beauty, befriends Elphaba, a misunderstood and distinctly chartreuse-skinned figure. The upcoming production of this most-loved musical features an all-New Zealand cast, boasting the esteemed Tina Cross, a beloved figure in Kiwi music circles, in the role of Madame Morrible. This show promises to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds, transporting them to a world of unparalleled enchantment — one of the crown jewels of our March Culture Guide. Tickets are available here.
Friday, 31st March — Saturday, 22nd April, SkyCity Theatre

Rupi Kaur

Having pioneered a career in social media prose, encouraging readers everywhere to think differently about how we engage with poetry, Rupi Kaur is finally bringing her lauded World Tour to New Zealand this March. Performing in both Wellington and Auckland, Kaur will share some of her most beloved works, alongside new, unpublished pieces, set to an original music score. A divine literary affair indeed.
Friday, 24th March, Auckland Town Hall

March Culture Guide: Florence + The Machine

Florence + The Machine

Few voices are as instantly recognisable as that of Florence Welch, frontwoman of Florence + The Machine, who return to our shores later this month. The Dance Fever Tour sees the act playing to New Zealand fans for the first time in four years. With the album recorded in London over the course of the pandemic, it feels like the soundtrack to the last sordid few years.
Tuesday, 21st March, Spark Arena

Light from Tate: 1700s to Now

From the collections of Tate, this exhibition highlights how light has enraptured artists throughout time, manifested through painting, photography, sculpture, installation, drawing and moving images. It showcases the works of illustrious artists such as JMW Turner, Claude Monet, Wassily Kandinsky, and Olafur Eliasson, accompanied by installations that create a plethora of sensory experiences. Spanning from the 18th century to the present day, the opening weekend (this weekend) comprises two full days of food, music, crafts and free talks for anyone curious about the intricacies of art.
Wednesday, 1st March — Sunday, 25th June, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Auckland Arts Festival

This March sees the enviable return of the Auckland Arts Festival to the beating cultural heart of the City. Featuring what might be the event’s biggest programme yet, full of some of our greatest national talents, and visiting guests from further afield, Aucklanders are treated to 18 days of immersion in the arts. Think exhibitions, live performances and workshops, of which the complete programme can be discovered here.
Thursday, 9th March — Sunday, 26th March, various locations

March Culture Guide: Lorde

Lorde

Returning for a ‘reintroduced’ Solar Power tour, and earning a spot in our March Culture Guide, our national darling will be playing a one-off show at Western Springs this weekend, celebrating the much-anticipated 2020 album with her most adoring fans. One of nine stops on her first tour in five years, where other destinations include Upper Moutere and a postponed Havelock North show, it is evident that this kind of show is not to be missed.
Saturday, 4th March, Western Springs

NZ International Fraud Film Festival

The upcoming return of the NZ International Fraud Film Festival to Auckland presents a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into the underbelly of fraud and its effects on society. The Festival’s programme promises to explore a range of topics, including the psychology of fraudsters, institutional corruption, forgery, and cybercrime, and will showcase several films such as The Talented Mr. Rosenberg, Gaming Wall St., Nothing Lasts Forever, The Lost Leonardo, and China Hackers. Those wishing to attend can secure free tickets to select events, including a session with the renowned investigative team Fair Go. More information is available here.
Wednesday, 29th March & Thursday, 30th March, Q Theatre

Beacon Festival

March sees the post-covid return of Beacon Festival, which this year expands to two days of house and electronic dance music on the iconic Auckland waterfront. Drawing an utterly impressive international line-up, single-day tickets are also available for those looking to curb any potential over-enthusiasm ahead of the work week.
Saturday, 18th March & Sunday, 19th March, Queens Wharf

Culture

New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
What’s with the ‘Boom Boom’ Boom? Our Editor finds out…
How to: Secure a Table

Watch the Gucci Fall Winter 2023 fashion show live from Milan

As the clock nears 1am on Saturday the 25th of February, the fashion world is turning its gaze to Gucci’s new season unveiling at Milan Fashion Week. 

With the lauded Italian fashion house set to showcase its women’s autumn-winter 2023 collection, the previous collection Gucci Twinsburg is still distinctly in our minds. There, mesmerising themes of self-reflection, illusion and identity were toyed with by former Creative Director Alessandro Michele, as twin models descended the runway in identical pairs

And while Michele was known for his romantic and eclectic influences on the brand, we are eagerly anticipating our first glimpse at the sartorial influence of his recently-named successor, Sabato de Sarno, who will reveal his debut collection in September. 

To immerse yourself in Gucci’s fall winter 2023 runway show, set at the Gucci Hub headquarters in Milan, watch the below video from 1am tomorrow morning, the 25th of February (NZST). 

Coveted

Five chic ways to wear a silk scarf this season
Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Food Truck Collective vendor Taste of Rwanda.

Three of the tastiest food events you need to check out this weekend

As another sunny weekend is anticipated, we’re looking ahead to all of the culinary events drawing us outdoors this weekend. Featuring some household names alongside new future classics, these are the three food events you need to discover this weekend — if nothing else.

Baby G Burger at Crayon Classic

It’s been quite some time since we’ve indulged in Baby G’s beloved smash burgers. So, come Sunday afternoon, this is precisely where you’ll find us. Catering to the hungry masses at the inaugural Crayon Classic at Pompallier Tennis Club (which, by all accounts, sounds like an epic event for anyone looking to jump into a little casual weekend tennis) alongside an Almighty hydration station, it’s the most delicious burger event to take in the final hours of the week.
Sunday, 3pm — 8pm.

Baby G Burger.

Food Truck Night at Victoria Park

An early pioneer of the Auckland pop-up scene, Food Truck Collective’s tasty nights are back this Friday, taking over Victoria Park for anyone wanting to do knock-offs right. From 5pm, a whole host of food trucks will converge on the inner-city park, such as Miso Ra, ​​Double Dutch Fries, Taste of Rwanda and Lalele Organic Gelato and Waffles (should you have saved room for dessert). This is the kind of affair you’ll want to grab your group and a picnic blanket, before settling in for the late afternoon.
Friday, 5pm — 9pm.

From left: Food Truck Collective vendors Sweet as Bowl, Local Legend Eats.

Broke Boy Taco Residency at Ante Social Club

Now a month into a residency at Ponsonby’s Ante Social Club, Broke Boy Taco’s sought-after morsels are once again becoming the talk of the town. Known for creating Mexican-inspired street food inspired by his days in San Francisco’s Mission District, Sean Yarborough is quickly making a name for himself as the purveyor of some of the tastiest tacos in town at all the best food events in Auckland.
Thursday to Saturday, 5pm — 9pm.

Broke Boy Taco.

Gastronomy

Your first look at Blue — the buzzy new eatery in the heart of Ponsonby that everyone’s talking about
Askal is bringing its modern Filipino fare to Auckland for two nights only — here’s what you need to know
Savour the best of the season at Gather & Toast: SkyCity’s winter celebration

A curated roundup of the best new fashion arrivals, hand-picked by our editors

Whether you’re heading out this weekend or are simply in search of something new to add to your wardrobe, there are a number of new fashion arrivals to be found at our favourite boutiques. From luxurious womenswear at Faradays to fresh men’s and women’s pieces at Workshop, as well as a raft of exquisite jewellery (if you really feel like treating yourself) whatever you have your sartorial sights set on, here, there’s something to suit every style.

And in a bid to make things easy for you, our editors have curated some of their favourite new fashion arrivals from the stores and brands around town. Shop ’til you drop, we say.

From top left: Stripe Accent Monogram T-Shirt from Louis Vuitton, Loewe Anagram sunglasses from Parker & Co., Elsa Peretti Bean design Wire Necklace from Tiffany & Co., Givenchy Jacquard Soft Cup Bra from Faradays, 30 MONTAIGNE reversable belt from Christian Dior, Soft wool silk jacket from Gucci, David Yurman Carlyle Bracelet from Partridge, LOULOU STUDIO Cadar Wide Leg pants from Workshop, Soft padded sabots from Prada, CHLOÉ small woody tote from Workshop.

From top left: ACNE STUDIOS vintage denim jacket from Workshop, Run sneaker from Gucci, Lock Bangle fro Tiffany & Co., VALENTINO III Irregular Sunglasses from Faradays, Short-sleeved heavy cotton shirt from Prada, GIVENCHY G-Tote Medium Shop Bag from Faradays, COMMON PROJECTS original achilles from Workshop, Patek Philippe Complications REF. 5935A-001 watch from Partridge, Draped Relaxed Pants from Louis Vuitton.

Coveted

Five chic ways to wear a silk scarf this season
Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
The Takapoto Classic.
The Landrover Defender.
Takapoto Estate.

Your look inside this year’s Takapoto Classic, from showjumping to Land Rover’s exciting activations

One event on our late summer social calendar is the Takapoto Classic, one of the country’s most distinguished equestrian events of the year. With the support of like-minded brands such as Land Rover, this world-class showjumping competition has evolved into a celebratory affair that is as much about the experiences on offer as it is about the competition itself. And as we’ve borne witness to this year, the event is only poised to further its international stature, drawing the most discerning guests from across the globe to the annual Waikato-based affair.

Held at Takapoto Estate on the shores of Lake Karapiro, this annual tournament attracts New Zealand’s most elite equestrians (and a burgeoning roster of international riders) to compete over 10 days. The estate itself is a miraculous destination; a 600-acre property spanning three waterfront kilometres, home to a vineyard, boutique accommodation, and sought-after function areas, alongside world-class equestrian facilities and a horse-breeding program. Few other destinations in New Zealand meet this calibre, and as such, it is a fitting home for such a storied affair.

The Landrover Defender.

Courtesy of its sponsors, this year’s Takapoto Estate showjumping experience includes (beyond the horses) a delicious lineup of local cuisine from boutique food trucks, as well as award-winning New Zealand wines for spectators to enjoy while watching on. There are cafes, bars and a boutique trade village, which plays host to other adrenaline-inducing activities. Land Rover, for instance, has partnered with Takapoto to offer its Defender Off-Road Experience, a drive activation that showcases the capabilities and prowess of the latest Defender for those daring enough to drive (a brand representative can chauffeur if you’d prefer to ride shotgun).

Elsewhere, you’ll find the PHEV Display, highlighting the best in the brand’s latest innovations of hybrid luxury, alongside customer hosting (think private dinner functions and cocktail evenings), which furthers Land Rover’s longstanding, international relationship with the equestrian field — which they describe as part of their DNA. From its historic sponsorship of Burghley Horse trials and the three-day event in Kentucky, it is evident that showjumping and horse riding is something that has long been interwoven with Land Rover’s heritage and prestige.

The Takapoto Classic.

Closer to home, Land Rover continues to build on this idea, having recently partnered with Equestrian Sport New Zealand to support our national high-performance team in training. Simultaneously, the partnership’s intention extends to a grassroots level, where the two forces hope to elevate all levels of equestrian in New Zealand.

Ultimately, the Takapoto Classic is an event that, should you feel even the slightest regret about not attending this year, calls to be earmarked in your dairy for 2024. Hosting some of the most discerning individuals with an appetite for adventure, it is the kind of experience that truly caters to all — and is something we should all get behind.

Culture

New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
What’s with the ‘Boom Boom’ Boom? Our Editor finds out…
How to: Secure a Table
Sem Restaurant & Wine Bar in Lisbon, Portugal.

This March, acclaimed Portuguese restaurant Sem is coming to Auckland for two nights only

Celebrated by locals and international travellers alike, Lisbon restaurant and wine bar Sem is known for more than just its exquisite Portuguese cuisine. Its name means ‘without’ in Portuguese, and the award-winning establishment is dedicated to a bold zero-waste kitchen policy to create a net positive effect on the environment. Food offcuts are fermented and preserved, no plastic packaging or rubbish bins are in sight, and produce is foraged or grown through regenerative agriculture.

Restaurant Sem Black Garlic and Sourdough Bread with Tamari Vinegar Poached Shiitakes, Grilled Matsutake and a Wastershire Emulsion with Julienned Matsutake Legs dressed in a Smoked Mushroom and Chilli Miso Oil.

With such an audacious approach to sustainable cuisine, it is perhaps no surprise that an element of homegrown ingenuity is at play. Sem is co-run by Kiwi chef George McLeod (formerly of London’s Silo) and his Brazilian-Portuguese partner Lara Espirito Santo. And for the first time ever, McLeod and Santo are set to bring a piece of Portugal to New Zealand, teaming up with an old friend and local hospitality personality Carlo Buenaventura of Bar Magda on Saturday the 11th and Sunday the 12th of March.

From left: Bar Magda Eggplant Relleno with Cucumber, Wakame and Sauce Morado, Watermelon Cocktail with Strawberry, Mezcal, Aperol, Yellow Chartreuse and Mint Sherbet.

Speaking of the extravaganza, Buenaventura tells me we can expect a memorable four-course feast (including cocktail and wine pairings). Melding the best of Portuguese and Buenaventura’s native Filipino cuisine, dishes will feature the freshest baby corn, oysters, seafood, venison and more. 

From left: Bar Magda interior, Market Fish en Papillote with Preserved Fennel, Wakame, Tobiko and Sauce Pinangat.

“Boa comida e bons momentos!” Buenavetura says, translating to “Good food and good times!” It is a motto he lives by and speaks to his unrivalled passion for creating daring culinary experiences.

Set to take the local dining scene by storm, secure your tickets to the Sem and Bar Magda collaboration here. Held on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March 2023, tickets are $115, or $180 including drinks pairings. 

Bar Magda

25B Cross St
Newton
Auckland 1010

www.barmagda.co.nz

Gastronomy

Your first look at Blue — the buzzy new eatery in the heart of Ponsonby that everyone’s talking about
Askal is bringing its modern Filipino fare to Auckland for two nights only — here’s what you need to know
Savour the best of the season at Gather & Toast: SkyCity’s winter celebration