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 for its community of creatives. And although we might not have our own Soho House here, tapping into the vibe has never been easier with the recent arrival of Soho Home in New Zealand.
Available to order exclusively from local interior-design authority Design Central, Soho Home aptly mirrors the look and feel of Soho Houses worldwide, allowing you to infuse your spaces with sophisticated savoir-faire. Design Central’s masterful experts are well versed in the heritage brand, able to guide you through the luxurious array of furniture, lighting, textiles and dining accessories that Soho Home has to offer.
Certainly a sophisticated, noteworthy offering to consider, whether you’re looking to refresh your existing decor or source a one-off piece to elevate the ambience of any room, we highly recommend you experience the intangible magic of Soho Home for yourself.
Come Friday afternoon, the conversation inevitably turns to weekend plans. In the Denizen office, this means discussing which restaurants we plan on visiting, and which dishes we intend to order. With social media providing all manner of temptation throughout the week, a curated shortlist is vital for weekend dining success. So without further ado, here are the delicious dishes from around Auckland that you need to try over the weekend ahead.
1. Wild Red Deer Sirloin from Ahi While the days of wintry dishes are almost numbered, we plan on returning to Ahi for a final taste of a seasonal favourite. The Wild Red Deer Sirloin is simply unparalleled, with tender, juicy meat that is premium quality and cooked to perfection. Served with equally-tender coal-baked beetroot, creamed horseradish, activated walnuts and a cheese savoury, it is a dish we would happily order all year round.
2. Duck & Waffles from Jervois Steak House We have it on good authority that this dish is set to be our new favourite — and while we haven’t had a chance to try it yet, it’s one we’ve been hanging out for. Here, the kitchen has paired duck liver parfait with croissant waffles, roasted grapes and vin coyto, giving us the elevated take on the ‘croffle’ we’ve long been craving.
3. Hot Fish Sando from Alpha Despite its small, intimate nature, there is no shortage of dining inspiration at Alpha. Set up as Pasture’s ‘test kitchen’, this cafe (which has recently expanded into night-time service, too) showcases how creative the culinary process can be. The absolute must-try dish is a simple sandwich that might just be the best iteration of this classic staple we have ever tried. Hot market fish (both in temperature and spice) is placed between fluffy shokupan bread, with homemade tartare and crunchy lettuce. It’s perfectly spiced, outrageously flaky and completely, utterly delicious.
4. Gochujang Charred Octopus from Gochu The popularity of Gochu head chef’s latest venture, Tokki, has us looking back to his Commercial Bay roots (conveniently easier to find a booking for). And while diners often come for the milk buns, they always stay for the unassuming favourites — the gochujang charred octopus being one. Resting on a bed of garlic chives, shallot namul and cashews, one could almost call this healthy, if it wasn’t so damned delicious.
5. Hot Buttered Lobster Roll Combo from Lobster & Tap Sweet, divine, and always best served with lashings of butter, lobster is something we often crave. Leave it to Lobster & Tap, purveyors of the most elevated humble lobster in the city, to hit the spot just right. We’re quite grateful for the Hot Buttered Lobster Roll, with chopped lobster meat, clarified butter, lemon and chives, served warm on a hot toasted bun. Paired with chips (or crisps), coleslaw and pickles, it’s the most delightful addition to a weekend of dining.
6. Wagyu Oxtail Raviolo from Soul Bar & Bistro It’s a big call but this just might be Soul Bar & Bistro’s greatest pasta to date. Never a venue to shy away from bold new flavours, Soul’s heavenly raviolo is the crown jewel of its current menu. Served with celeriac and pickled onion gremolata, this satiating dish is packed with rich, warming flavours that complement a perfectly-filled piece of al dente pasta.
If you’re lucky enough to have a canine companion, you’ll be pleased to know that Auckland’s delectable food scene extends its offering to eateries that will welcome you and your four-legged friend with open arms. And what better time to explore these pooch-friendly destinations than on a Saturday or Sunday morning, after a leisurely stroll? From casual cafes to more elevated establishments, here are some of our favourite dog-friendly dining spots to take pleasure in with your best friend by your side.
Dear Jervois, Herne Bay A popular Herne Bay stalwart among the two-legged set, your pup will be barking at you to take them to Dear Jervois in no time. There’s ‘Dog Parking’ aplenty if you dine outside, and with dog bowls on hand, we hear the tap water goes down a treat. In the meantime, indulge in the delectable, all-day menu for yourself because anytime is the right time to feast on eggs benedict and creamy mushrooms.
Hotel Ponsonby, Saint Mary’s Bay We hear that this Saint Mary’s Bay hotspot welcomes dogs both in its bustling outdoor courtyard and at its tables inside, so you can be sure your pooch will appreciate the chic yet approachable atmosphere while you devour some elevated pub fare. Perhaps they’ll even socialise with a few Ponsonby pugs along the way.
Takapuna Beach Café, Takapuna Chaperone your doggo on their dream date, that is, careening across a long stretch of sand, dipping in the sea, and lazing in the sun after a vigorous shake-off. Experience this for yourself at Takapuna beach, taking your dog to the outdoor deck at the nearby beach-front café as a post-walk treat. They’ll love you for it.
Orphans Kitchen, Ponsonby This one’s for the pup rearing to prance down Ponsonby’s main stretch at the crack of dawn (Mini Schnauzers, we’re looking at you). They’ll feel right at home in the outdoor courtyard at Orphan’s Kitchen, as will you, while you feast on wholesome meals showcasing the best locally-sourced ingredients (if in doubt, order the house-made crumpets with a lashing of honey). Afterwards, extend your stay in this dog-friendly precinct with a spot of boutique shopping, pooch in tow.
Ozone Coffee Roasters, Grey Lynn Allow your beloved pet to soak up the delicious, coffee-infused aroma (smell, but don’t touch) at Ozone Coffee Roasters — they’re allowed to chill under your inside table or soak up the Westmoreland rays outside. It’s a win-win situation for you as you sip on a quality brew (or two) and enjoy the delectable, innovative fare.
Andiamo, Herne Bay Herne Bay locals will be familiar with the ritual of rolling up to Andiamo early on a beautiful afternoon in order to secure one of its coveted, sunny outdoor tables. Wander up to this neighbourhood drop in with your four-legged friend in tow and park up outside for a few delicious drinks and aperitivo as your pooch revels in the springtime sunshine.
Hotel Ponsonby.
Pocket Bar & Kitchen, Grey Lynn This is a Grey Lynn establishment with a love for canines at its core. Dogs are welcome inside and out, and occasionally they put on ‘Dog and Grog’ to bring the community together. Excitingly, four-legged attendees can go off the leash and run wild in the closed-off beer garden while you partake in gourmet tapas, gorgeous platters, and thirst-quenching beers. It’s like the dog park experience, enhanced with a drink in hand.
Wynyard Pavilion, North Wharf Let your precious pooch pick either the garden bar or waterfront seating because dogs rule the roost at Wynyard Pavilion. We’ve even been told that at 1pm on the first Sunday of every month, the seaside venue is transformed into ‘Wynyard Paw-vilion’, promising pup-cakes galore. After all, it’s a dog-eat-dog world.
Annabel’s Wine Bar, Ponsonby Any dog will salivate with joy if they accompany you to Annabel’s Wine Bar, the cosy nook nestled in the heart of Three Lamps. As you pore over the extensive wine list and nibble on delectable morsels, snuggle up to your pup as they dabble in some people-watching to pass the time.
Brewport Ponsonby, Ponsonby Head straight from the paw-fice to Brewport Ponsonby, because the word on the street is that every Wednesday from 4pm, the inner-city micro-brewery offers Happy Hour for four-legged friends. While you socialise with your pals, your pup can indulge in a homemade dog treat (or two), because why should humans have all the fun?
The Garden Shed, Mount Eden Sporting a sheltered courtyard that’s perfect for the rain-averse pooch, Mount Eden’s The Garden Shed has much to offer with its homely meals and delightful cocktails. Its hospitable atmosphere will mean your pup won’t want to leave, but they’re barking up the wrong tree if they think they’re the boss of you.
Parade Ponsonby, Ponsonby Parade Ponsonby boasts a gorgeous (and covered) outdoor area for when you fancy decadent American-influenced fare — think appetising Pretzel bun burgers and indulgent sides. If your pup is lucky, they may get to lick your plate — if you don’t beat them to it.
The future of haircare is sustainable — proven by the impressive measures many world-class salons are taking to use products that are as good for the environment as they are for our tresses. Here, we sit down with Servilles’ Newmarket Salon Manager, Olivia Davies, to talk about her recent trip to the Davines Village in Palma, and what she learned about the latest innovations in haircare.
Why is there a big shift to sustainability in haircare? I believe clients are so much more interested in and knowledgeable about the actions and environmental impacts of cosmetic companies these days. Our individual and daily consumer choices can really impact the bigger picture and we don’t have to look too far to see the effects global warming is having on our earth. Sustainability is becoming more important in our lifestyles than ever before and the hair industry is no different. Davines is a pioneer of sustainable hair care and the driver of innovation for the rest of the industry, with it’s priority to not only be the best in the world, but the best for the world.
Why should someone switch to sustainable products? My favourite benefits would include knowing there’s no animal testing and that the products are all vegan friendly with fewer chemicals and more naturally derived ingredients. Renewable energy production is used to make the products and packaging — contributing to the reforestation and organic farming projects that help take care of our planet during production. Last but not least, these products often lead to much healthier hair.
Davines scientific garden.
Davines is known for the scientific garden, which informs the beautiful formulas. What happens there? Davines uses this place to study and find inspiration through its organic farming techniques and biodiversity. When I was there it was used to host guests with cocktails, canapés and live music. It is used for a range of purposes, but it was by far the most beautiful and memorable part of the village for me.
What philosophies do Davines and Servilles share? Although hair care is our main business we like to focus on the bigger picture. Creating an environment both our teams and clients can be proud of and in which they enjoy spending time — delivering expert advice, experiences and services that help educate and inspire our people.
If you could only pick three products from the Davines range, what would they be and why? Davines’ Oi all-in-one milk is my number one favourite and I use it on almost every single client. It is a beautiful, lightweight, leave-in treatment that nourishes, repairs and protects the hair from daily life and excess heat. Invisible No-Gas spray is my close second. It’s a non-aerosol hairspray that also has high heat protection, perfect to use pre and post-curling your hair. The Natural Tech Renewing conditioning treatment I could not personally live without. I have incredibly sensitive skin and have never found a range I can continually use that deeply nourishes without weighing my long, fine hair down.
As a hairdresser, what difference do you notice when working with sustainable products? Since Servilles converted to a Davines salon six years ago I haven’t suffered from dermatitis or an inflamed scalp post-colour service since. Not only are the products very sustainable, but they also have the highest concentration of naturally-derived ingredients of any brand we have used. We have far fewer client reactions and are able to dispose of over 96 percent of our waste created in the salon sustainably.
What impact do you hope this will have on the world? That it will inspire our clients to make the best choices for their hair and our environment simultaneously; that it will hold other companies accountable for their carbon footprint and environmental transparency; and that more companies follow suit, so our earth can really start to repair.
On Kingsland’s main drag lies Nanny’s Eatery, its happy-go-lucky ambience propelling co-owner JP’s vision of stepping into a place that feels like home. “It’s no different than going to your cousin’s house and having a laugh”, he tells me, a twinkle in his eye.
This laissez-faire vibe (with a side of JP’s banter) provides a taste of what’s to come — hearty, belly-warming dishes with bountiful flavour, best shared with family and friends. After all, JP intended Nanny’s Eatery to be a place that satiates your appetite and nourishes your soul.
Left: Nanny’s Eatery. Right: Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Rum Barbecue Sauce.
Migrating from Kingston (Jamaica’s capital) to Wellington at the age of fifteen, JP quickly realised that his homeland’s cuisine would fare exceptionally well in Aotearoa. “I knew it would work because when my friends came over and had my parents cooking, they’d rave about it, and the next day at school, they’d be like, ‘dude, can you bring me some [more]?'”.
His love for food ingrained in his DNA, JP recalls fond memories of his childhood in Jamaica, where his mother and grandmother taught him how to cook (and bestowed him with a few trade secrets along the way). After completing high school, he moved overseas to hone his culinary craft, holding an impressive two-year post at a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Denmark. His ambition to found his own operation led him back to our shores, where his well-received Wellington-based food truck paved the way for his present bricks-and-mortar space, which has been open since the end of last year and we are told is the only Jamaican eatery in the Auckland region.
Left: Five Cheese Mac N’ Cheese. Right: Jamaican Jerk Chicken.
As JP puts it, what makes Jamaican cuisine so palatable is that it is “spicy and full of flavour” — but not too fiery — as “not a lot of Kiwis can handle heat”. The infusion of two key ingredients, scotch bonnet pepper and pimento (allspice), produces a full-bodied heat that’s not overly intense, meaning you can still appreciate the meal’s flavours without setting your taste buds on fire.
When it comes to ordering your aromatic soul food at Nanny’s Eatery, it’s a given that newcomers should try both the Jerk Chicken and Jerk Pork Belly, served with a lashing of JP’s rum barbeque sauce. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, we have it on good authority to try the Pork Fried Ribs or BBQ Wings. For those partial to plant-based morsels, the ‘I can’t believe it’s not chicken’ Cauli Bites and vegan Ital Coconut Curry will satisfy your cravings like never before. Our favourites included the moreish Jalapeño Poppers (a true test of my self-control) and the creamy Five Cheese Mac N’ Cheese, the exact formulation of which JP guards closely — believe us when we say we tried to get it out of him.
Jalapeño Poppers.
For a comforting accompaniment to any dish on the menu, try the Rice and Peas, its succulent taste enhanced by Scotch bonnet peppers, although, do take note, no green peas are used in the making. While in Jamaica, pigeon peas are utilised for this traditional dish, at Nanny’s Eatery, the nutty-tasting legume is substituted for good old red kidney beans.
Inviting food isn’t all Nanny’s Eatery has on offer either. JP has a few more tricks up his sleeve, including the City’s most extensive array of rums (76 and counting) should you wish to sip on a Caribbean-inspired cocktail alongside your meal. We recommend a taste of the house rum, which hails from Jamaica, for its exceptionally smooth texture and rich notes of toffee. It goes down a treat served neat or on the rocks, but if you’re lucky JP might offer you a shot.
Left: Jamaican Jerk Pork Belly. Right: Nanny’s Eatery & Rum Bar.
So, for a mouth-watering taste of the Caribbean that’s closer to home, Nanny’s Eatery is the place to be. With its unassuming atmosphere and humble fare elevated with just the right amount of heat, pull up a seat, indulge in the flavours, and see for yourself why Nanny’s Eatery has become a mainstay on the Kingsland food scene.
When Australian interior designer Charlotte Coote reimagined her own home, there was a raft of inspiration on which she could draw, having created countless spaces for clients across the country. That said, she ended up finding it a little closer to home, in the gardens surrounding her Mt Macedon residence in the Victorian countryside.
When designing her daughters’ rooms, rhododendron was the immediate inspiration, and liberal use of Resene pink paints was employed. Far from the Barbie or millennial shades of the moment, these dusty hues with peachy undertones were used to create a space that was timeless, sophisticated and chic. In fact, their effect proves that pink need not be reserved for the kids’ rooms alone, promising to bring soft femininity to any space.
Extending the pink theme to the living room, Coote opted for a touch of brilliance with a sherbet pink (a tone that simultaneously feels of-the-moment and utterly timeless), the bold approach imbuing the common area with a sense of confident, contemporary elegance.
Ultimately, Coote’s masterful handiwork reveals how a touch of pink can completely transform a room into something magnificent. And with the right furnishings, you too can harness the power of this colour to create a captivating ambience for your home. And in order to ensure you select the perfect pink palette, we recommend starting with Resene’s vast and varied options.
So meticulous are Emil Humbert and Christophe Poyet of Humbert & Poyet in their pursuit of design perfection that the duo will oversee every little detail of the project on which they are working. In this exceptional Parisian apartment, their lauded metier comes alive, where everything from the floors to the counter tops to the layout to the lighting (and even the bedside pendants) has been carefully planned out and executed, resulting in a residence that not only speaks to luxury in a tactile, interesting way but that directly reflects the unique personalities of its owners.
Located in the heart of the City of Light, this apartment had been left in a dilapidated state for years despite its position overlooking both the Eiffel Tower and the Jardin de Tuileries. So, when Humbert and Poyet were approached to breathe new life into the neglected space, they had to start from scratch. The first step was to reimagine the layout, which saw rooms enlarged and the kitchen moved from the back of the home to the front, so that its commanding, green-marble island would be one of the first things guests would see upon entering. This decision to move the kitchen to a more prominent position was also in response to the owners’ love for entertaining. Putting hospitality at the heart of the home, the designers created an open, inviting, light-filled space in which food could be prepared with a glass of wine in hand, all while enjoying the good conversation of friends perched at the counter.
0414 chairs by Studio G&R for Gallotti&Radice available from ECC.
0414 chairs by Studio G&R for Gallotti&Radice available from ECC.
The idea of hospitality extends to the home’s dining room, anchored by a custom-made, inlaid dining table able to accommodate 10 people. Running along one side of the room, two bespoke wine cabinets flank an extraordinary piece of art by Christophe Wool, and add to the promise of dinner parties on a whole new level.
Art was a major consideration in this home, with Humbert and Poyet using the owner’s vast and varied personal collection as a central tenet of their design. Pieces from artists like George Condo, Kelley Walker, Stefan Brüggemann and more hang on walls or sit sculpturally in eye-catching positions around the home, offering surprising moments of creativity and injecting every space with pizzazz. Here, art is important for the way it makes the design feel deeper than luxury alone, with Humbert and Poyet integrating it seamlessly so that it feels alive and impactful. There is an eclecticism and a playfulness in this apartment that really sets it apart.
DS-600 modular sofa by De Sede.
This extends to the furniture, too. In the living room, a large De Sede sofa wraps elegantly around the entire space, with a vertebrae-like structure that makes it feel right at home alongside the room’s sculptural elements. It’s here that one can imagine the owners’ dinner party guests inevitably ending their nights, draped over the sofa’s unique curves or perched on the two vintage De Jeanneret chairs beside the marble fireplace, while the twinkling lights of the city peep in through the room’s French windows.
Alta lounge chair by Oscar Niemeyer for Espasso.
Elsewhere, pieces from the likes of Pierre Paulin, Emmannuelle Simon and Kelly Wearstler sit alongside custom-made furnishings and vintage finds, everything rendered in a subdued but sophisticated colour palette that not only makes the tactile finishes stand out but that gives this home a wonderful sense of depth and dimension.
Alpha sofa by Pierre Paulin, Creation floor lamp in Brass with Alabaster Globe by Glustin Luminaires, Artwork by Kelley Walker.
If (as the saying goes) God is in the details, then this apartment is holy ground. The parquet floors were designed by Humbert and Poyet in a patinated style to make them feel storied and antique, there is a custom illuminated ceiling in the bathroom, and the use of marble on a number of key details (from the four types used to create the hallway floors to the incredible Arabescato Statuario bathtub) lends a kind of weighty luxury to the overall vibe. So specific were the designers about the marble finishes, in fact, that they took the owners on a trip to Carrara to pick the perfect stone in person.
Ultimately, this apartment is a showcase of Humbert and Poyet’s ability to layer materials, colours and shapes with such finesse that the resulting spaces offer luxury with a kind of untouchable nonchalance that could only be created by the French. It’s easy to understand why this duo’s particular perspective is so widely sought-after.
With the same care and consideration used by seamstresses around the world, Kohna Zari Ko began as a venture with heart — founded with a vision to help migrant women develop meaningful, rewarding careers in New Zealand. Building on the skills of some and sharing them with many, this new endeavour focuses on sustainability by giving new life to old clothes and fabric.
The Philosophy Translating to ‘turning old to gold’, Kohna Zari Ko seeks to provide valid work opportunities and new skills to migrant women in New Zealand. Using the reach of an online platform, the initiative brings together migrant women who have experience in sewing or an interest in tailoring, who are commissioned projects by individuals seeking some help with their clothes. This could be anything from basic mending and alterations (on pieces that would otherwise be discarded) to tailoring or bespoke works. In doing so, the collective helps to tackle issues of isolation and employment that migrant women face, alongside taking steps to combat fashion’s great sustainability problem.
Who Are They Kohna Zari Ko is an initiative driven by the same women it serves. Led by the Migrant Women’s Group and the New Settlers Family and Community Trust (NFACT), Kohna Zari Ko is an endeavour that keeps migrant women at the heart of its values and business model. Dr Fahima Saeid established Kohna Zari Ko as a social enterprise project built on an already-existing circle of women who had spent several years crafting together. The group continuously welcomes new women into the fold to grow their impact while developing members’ skills and empowering women arriving in New Zealand to build friendships, connections and valuable careers in the community.
What They Do With a considered emphasis on renewable and sustainable fashion (as many of the women working have experienced the industry’s devastating effects in its current iteration), Kohna Zari Ko allows anyone to commission projects in the sewing and tailoring field. The streamlined online platform connects those seeking support with experienced tailors and seamstresses who can offer simple hemming, clothing repairs, and more adventurous projects. Additionally, as a way of safely interacting with the community, the collective has been hosting pop-up mending events — at which their skilled members will bring your beloved garments back to life in front of your eyes.
How To Get Involved Kohna Zari Ko has made it as simple as possible to get involved and support the initiative while gaining something for yourself. Commissioning a project can be done by anyone via the website. Items can be dropped at any designated drop-off location, so your repair and refurbishing work can be completed with care. Not only will this extend the life of your favourite wardrobe pieces, but will support the wellbeing of those who have given up so much to be here and to make a better life for themselves.
We are deeply saddened to hear that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II peacefully passed away today at her much loved home, Balmoral in Scotland, surrounded by family members. Queen Elizabeth was the spirit of the Commonwealth; her devotion and commitment to a life of service were unparalleled, and her 70-year reign unprecedented. This is not only a sombre day but a hugely poignant moment in history. Her loss will be felt across the globe, and she will be sadly missed by all she served.
The statement from Royal Communications reads: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”
A statement from the Queen’s son, now King Charles III, followed shortly after. It reads: “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family. We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.
During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held.”
So today, we reflect not only on her contribution to history but her legacy. For many of us, this will likely have been the last Queen we see leading the monarchy — with Charles, William and George set to carry on the Windsor family line.
Born in 1926, it was not at first thought likely that Elizabeth would ever reign. Her father, then the Duke of York, was the second son of King George V, and not expected to become king himself. Following the abdication of King Edward VIII, her parents became King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, with the young Elizabeth becoming the heir presumptive.
The Queen enjoyed many years of good health throughout her long life, only recently starting to scale back her engagements due to mobility issues. Just this summer, she appeared during the Platinum Jubilee festivities, waving to the delighted public from the Buckingham Palace balcony at the start and close of the four-day bank holiday weekend in June.
Earlier this week, the Queen carried out another historic engagement, meeting with the new Prime Minister, Liz Truss, and officially inviting her to form a government. The audience took place at Balmoral Castle, rather than Buckingham Palace (as is traditional), likely to alleviate the discomfort of travelling for the monarch. She then pulled out of virtually attending a Privy Council meeting on Wednesday evening, with a Palace spokesperson stating that she had ‘accepted doctors’ advice to rest’.
While her 70-year reign was not without controversy or concern, it should be remembered that Queen Elizabeth showed many what it meant to lead with compassion. One who, above all, holds both family and kindness very dear.
Today, leaders around the world acknowledge the impact she has had — a truly unprecedented leadership by a truly remarkable woman.
“My whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the life of our great imperial family to which we all belong… [I] speak to all the peoples of the British Commonwealth and Empire, wherever they live, whatever race they come from, and whatever language they speak.”
Like so many of you, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed Her Majesty’s dedicated leadership, and we are awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service. Our thoughts are with her family and the people of the United Kingdom at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/sbID222iSQ
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation’s continuity and unity for over 70 years. I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century.
We tend to be spoiled for choice in the City of Sails, so whittling it down to exactly where to eat each weekend is the challenge at hand. It’s in this vein that we impart sage guidance with our suggestions of where to dine, imbibe, and be merry as we (hopefully) welcome the sun out to play. Without further ado, read on for our definitive guide to the best weekend dining spots in Auckland.
Friday night knock-offs at The Brit What’s Friday without a shared drink among friends? Whether it’s to celebrate your successes with colleagues or let off some steam with your mates, The Brit’s Britomart establishment is the perfect place to do just this. A pub at its core, it is the elevated take on The Brit’s casual nature that makes it so utterly visitable time and time again. Because the crowds love it too, if The Brit is too boisterous for your fancy, take yourself a few doors down the road for a more intimate pub experience at The Chamberlain, or head upstairs to Talulah for cocktails and whimsy.
Takeaway dinners from Baby G Burger Although this pop-up at Ponsonby Road’s Orphans Kitchen has been unprecedentedly popular, even a couple of months in, we think it’s just as delicious as its first week. Swing by on your way home for some knock-offs, or pull up a chair if you want to take in the lively surrounds (or are tempted by the thought of ordering seconds — because after all, who are we to judge?!).
Saturday morning pastries from Amano Bakery Pro tip: while a trip into the CBD might not be high on your Saturday morning agenda, it’s the simplicity of this morning ritual is that makes it so enjoyable. And tucked down the side of Britomart stalwart Amano is its beloved bakery, which serves some of the most delicious viennoiseries in the City. Our persuasion? A coffee and spring onion croissant to go, enjoyed with a walk down to the water’s edge — or a spot of shopping at nearby Commercial Bay.
European-style long-lunching at Non Solo Pizza Weekends are for long-lunching; that’s one thing we know to be true. And really, is there any place more iconic than Parnell’s Non Solo Pizza? With a courtyard that transports you back to European vacations and a menu that feels equally as authentically reminiscent, it is the perfect address to take up residence for the afternoon. Of course, pizzas are the main drawcard here, fondly thought of as some of the best in the city, but if you find yourself gravitating towards pasta, we’ll back you every step of the way.
Post-shopping pick-me-ups at Faraday’s Bar It would be remiss to find yourself in the heart of Parnell without stopping at Faradays, the luxury department store that houses some of the most coveted clothes in the country. And after a hard day’s shopping, a drink at the beautiful Faraday’s Bar, designed by the nonpareil touch of Cheshire Architects, is always encouraged.
Dinner-come-drinks with friends at Lilian A neighbourhood local we can always rely on, Lilian is perhaps the perfect place for dinner that rolls into something more sordid. What’s a few dishes among friends, over a bottle or two of wine, to see you really celebrating Saturday night right? To avoid any alcohol-induced misery the following day, a serving of tiramisu to share is always a good choice — trust us on this one.
Weekend brunching at Park Hyatt’s The Pantry If we’re not at the Farmers’ Markets on Sunday mornings, you’ll find us at brunch. Our destination of choice for weekends like this? The Pantry at Park Hyatt. Here, Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat offers nothing short of his usual excellence, with a menu that caters for manners of sin. But the real non-negotiable is a take-home pack of cookies, the hazelnut and chocolate chip being a Denizen team favourite.
Local’s Lunch on Sunday at Siso Following up brunch with a long lunch might seem excessive, but it’s something we encourage. Despite being available throughout the week, we think Sunday is the perfect day to indulge in a Local’s Lunch at Remuera’s Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Siso. While local is the brief, the borders are somewhat lenient, and $35 for two courses and a glass of matching wine is simply too good to pass up.
Sunset Drinks at Viaduct Harbour After a weekend of eating, swing by Soul Bar & Bistro if you’re craving a margarita and some of our favourite food (can we recommend the mac and cheese?). Otherwise, for a more casual affair, Saint Alice’s contemporary outlook is one we’re envious of every sunny Sunday, with live music and a crowd to match. If not there, you’ll find us at Rooftop at QT, Auckland’s original experience that set the tone for towering bars to follow. And as we watch the sun go down to the West, we like to reflect on the deliciousness of the weekend that was.
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