Drawing inspiration from traditional terrazzo tiling and other geometric shapes in nature, this eclectic trend is all about angles and lines.
Taking the idea of the terrazzo tile, with its randomly fragmented look and often vibrant colours and transposing it into other interior ideas, meet the new trend spotlighting shapes in the home. From beautifully-curved lines in elegant sofas to angular lighting and triangular coffee tables, pieces like these will add depth and dimension to your living space, and prove why it pays to know your geometry.
To achieve this aesthetic at home, don’t be afraid to play with shapes. From long lines to sinuous curves to sharp angles, this look will add dimension to any space.
Get The Look
The Pacific House by Alexander &CO. featuring the Trapeze lights by Apparatus from ECC
One of the world’s most eminent women in the contemporary design realm, Faye Toogood is a multi-disciplinarian who is well-versed in creating products that manage to be both intriguing and highly desirable. Based in London, the British designer’s eponymous company Toogood spans fashion, furniture, interior design and both functional and decorative objects.
While she is untrained, beginning her career as an editor at The World of Interiors magazine, she has honed a shrewd eye for pieces that demonstrate a focus on materiality and experimentation. No doubt, those with even a passing interest in design trends will have seen the Toogood Roly-Poly chair in all its Neotenic glory appear in multiple shades throughout luxury interior projects worldwide.
Faye Toogood.
The latest Toogood piece we’re enchanted by is the Puffy Lounge Chair, available in New Zealand from Tim Webber. Designed for European brand and platform Hem, it is an exercise in contrasts — both plump and structured, cocooning and strong. Comprising a tubular steel frame as its base, its quilt-like upholstery spills generously over the edges.
Taking practicality into consideration, the soft upper is detachable, and can be rendered in varying neutral fabrication shades to suit any interior configuration, from black leather to cream canvas and brown bouclé. The frame can also be powder-coated or sand-blasted to complement or contrast with the upholstery.
Like a warm hug, this is a chair that immediately invites the user to curl up within it, or perhaps drape one’s legs over one side. As Toogood describes it, the Puffy Lounge Chair has “a dependable durability coupled with all the enveloping warmth of a familiar duvet”. Luckily, this comfort doesn’t mean aesthetics are sacrificed in the slightest, meaning this is one piece of sensational seating that rests among the best of both worlds.
As we emerge from the depths of winter and into spring’s decidedly warmer embrace, a celebratory mood is certainly in the air. After all, summer is around the corner. Taking this idea and running with it in a big way is Commercial Bay, where this Saturday, the Downtown shopping and hospitality precinct will play host to an incredible festival of fashion and music, as well as a month-long celebration of the season via installations, designer meet-and-greets and more. Called ‘Solstice’, the free-ticketed event will comprise an impressive fashion show and live performance by renowned music duo BROODS, and is just the beginning of what is shaping up to be an exciting few weeks for the popular precinct.
Set to take place this Saturday, the 23rd of September, Solstice will see Commercial Bay’s ground-level laneway turned into a spectacular 26-metre runway, as ticket-holders are invited to witness a preview of the upcoming season’s latest trends and collections from the likes of Elle & Riley, Wynn Hamlyn, Maje, Sandro, Aje, Superette, Kate Sylvester, Twenty Seven Names, Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade, RM Williams and more. There is a selection of limited-release, allocated tickets to the fashion show, which will start at 8pm, with BROODS’ performance kicking off at 7:30pm, followed by a very fun after party at Reign & Pour, boasting DJ sets by Rain and China Katayanagi from 9:30pm and limited edition Solstice cocktails made with Malfy Gin.
Those eager to shop the runway can do so at certain Commercial Bay retailers who will be opening their doors after the show, or via a digital lookbook complete with in-store discounts and special offers for ticket holders. And if all that wasn’t enough, every Thursday evening in October, there will be opportunities for fashion enthusiasts to get up close and personal with some of their favourite designers via special meet-and-greets. From Wynn Hamlyn to the duo behind Aje and more, see here for dates and times of these exclusive sessions.
Tickets can be secured here, and for anyone who wants to make a night of it, Commercial Bay’s Harbour Eats and its various restaurants offer the perfect places to start with a satiating meal, either pre- or post-show. Origine will even be offering a special pre-show menu comprising two snacks and three courses for $90, available for bookings between 5:30pm and 6pm on show day.
And even when the unmissable runway extravaganza is over, Commercial Bay will be adorned in spring-worthy Solstice decorations and activations until the end of October, including a temporary photobooth that will be set up on Little Queen Street in which visitors can snap unforgettable memories.
So, why not mark spring’s long-awaited arrival with a festival of fashion, food, music and more at one of Auckland’s favourite destinations? Solstice is shaping up to be the celebration of the season, so gather your friends, book in a pre-show dinner, secure your tickets and enjoy a front-row seat to all the action.
Known for the way it always draws a convivial (and very well-dressed) crowd, the annual Melbourne Cup is undeniably a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until Tuesday the 7th of November, so popular are the parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release tickets to their Melbourne Cup events now, all of which tend to promptly sell out. Here, we round up all the best places in Auckland to celebrate the big race, and we suggest securing your tickets now, lest you miss out.
Sìso
Food, fashion and fillies collide at Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration. Starting at 11:30, guests will be greeted with a crisp glass of Mumm Rosé Champagne and treated to a delicious oyster bar before enjoying a three-course set menu. The big races will be shown live, of course, and there will also be a range of other entertainment by The Swingin’ Duet, featuring Peter Urlich and Lewis McCallum, following which Peter Urlich will take to the DJ decks to spin a selection of dance-floor classics to entice diners out of their seats. Attendees are encouraged to pull out all the sartorial stops as there will be a $1,000 Fashion in the Field voucher up for grabs, presented by lauded local fashion designer Caitlin Crisp. Tickets are $220 per person, tables will be configured in groups of six, eight, 10 or 12 and bookings are essential, so email the Sìso team here to secure your spot now.
Bivacco, Non Solo Pizza, MoVida & Bar Non Solo
A contingent of Savor Group’s most popular restaurants are promising to put on Melbourne Cup celebrations for the ages. From Bivacco’s sun-drenched, waterfront party to Non Solo Pizza’s long lunch to the elevated affairs taking place at MoVida and Bar Non Solo, there’s something in this line-up for everyone, but with tickets already running out the door, we suggest booking with haste. See here to learn more about all of Savor Group’s Melbourne Cup offerings.
Non Solo Pizza
Park Hyatt Auckland
Mark the ‘race that stops a nation’ at the Park Hyatt Auckland where, overlooking Auckland’s sparking harbour, you can celebrate in fine form, whether you’re looking for a fun and intimate afternoon with friends or a larger celebration. Offering live coverage of all the races from Melbourne, a raft of entertainment, Fashion in the Field spot prizes, a delicious four-course lunch, and Champagne on arrival, Park Hyatt Auckland has the perfect spaces to accommodate an unforgettable afternoon. On from 12:30pm on Tuesday the 7th of November, tickets to Park Hyatt’s celebrations are $185 per person and can be booked here.
Esther
Experience the epitome of Melbourne Cup glamour at Esther, the exceptional restaurant set on the ground floor of the QT Auckland. From Mumm Champagne on arrival to ‘Fashions on the QT Field’, encouraging guests to flaunt their individual race day style with daring fascinators or floral ensembles, Esther is really setting the stage for a day of unparalleled opulence. Enjoy a four-course long lunch feast comprising Esther’s signature favourites, perfectly complemented by expertly-curated pours by the venue’s Director of Champagne and watch all the Cup action live on screen, all while being immersed in what is shaping up to be a fun, frivolous and unforgettable afternoon, running from late morning to early evening. Tickets are $149 per person and can be secured here.
SkyBar
Take your Melbourne Cup celebrations to new heights at the incredible SkyBar, set on the 50th floor of the Sky Tower. Promising a luxurious twist on race-day festivities, guests will be greeted with a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut on arrival, followed by an exceptional ‘Sky Tea’ experience, comprising 10 exquisite culinary creations designed to delight your senses. As attendees enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, delicious pastries, and more, DJ Karn Hall will spin some sweet melodies to provide a vibrant ambience and set the stage for an afternoon of Melbourne Cup excitement. There will also be plenty of live race coverage and of course, those dressed to impress will go in the draw to win an array of fantastic spot prizes. Tickets for SkyBar’s Melbourne Cup Sky Tea are $105 per person, so giddy up and secure your place at this elevated affair by booking here.
Cibo
Head to Parnell stalwart Cibo for an elegant afternoon of Melbourne Cup fun. From 12:30pm, attendees will be able to immerse themselves in a convivial atmosphere of fun, frivolity and delicious fare thanks to Cibo’s five-course lunch, flowing Champagne, spot prizes throughout the day, live races, betting on-site and more. Tickets for Cibo’s celebration are $189 per person and can be secured here.
art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios
Meet the bold new interior trend that has us harbouring a rose-tinted outlook on the season ahead.
In an audacious move, it seems that the tonal trends have shifted from the cooler end of the spectrum (where hues of blue and green sit), to the warmer — resulting in a proliferation of a red and pink colour palette in the home.
Asking why we shouldn’t have a red feature wall in our living room, and encouraging us to create unique, tonal spaces, this trend is certainly not for the faint of heart, which is why we turned to the experts at Resene for guidance on how to execute it properly.
Here, the colour professionals suggest using tones like Resene Pioneer Red and Resene Awaken (both pictured in the brand’s SpaceCote Flat paint) to cultivate an inviting, warm and modern ambience. Pair with neutral colours like Resene Athena, and alongside timber floors and furnishings to make the vibrant palette feel more tactile and liveable.
*The living room features the Ploum sette by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec and the Shazia rug by Mona Ronteix from Ligne Roset, #31 artwork by Simone Rosenbauer from Sanderson, the Plissée floor lamp by Sebastian Herkner for ClassiCon from Matisse, the Suni bottle vase from Smith & Caughey’s, Luisa Acqua Glassware from Tessuti and a curved tray painted in Resene Athena, stylists own
**The nook features the Edvin plant stand, Aube console table and Shazia rug from Ligne Roset, Entice by Katherine Thronefrom Sanderson, Wooden sphere, Opal Glass bowl, Venus Head and Suni bottle from Smith & Caughey’s, Luisa Acqua Glassware, Broste Classic candle and Peggy candlestick from Tessuti
Whether you’re embarking on a weekend road trip or are simply looking for something to shorten your commute, dance to in your living room or play while you’re in the shower, we have rounded up some of the best new and noteworthy podcasts and albums to listen to now.
Here, host Omar El Akkad takes us on a captivating journey of imagination and contemplation in each thought-provoking episode of Without. This extraordinary podcast explores a world without the things we cherish or need, from lost species and natural wonders to nuclear weapons and more. It will open your mind to boundless possibilities.
I’m The Worst with Claire Hooper
Offering a hilarious and poignant look at the human experience, host Claire Hooper undertakes a series of conversations with a curated selection of intriguing individuals who speak about times when they were the worst. Delve into the hidden moments of their lives, igniting a captivating exploration of the complex human experience.
The Coldest Case in Laramie
Embark on a chilling journey into the depths of a decades-old mystery with Kim Barker, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter from The New York Times. In this gripping podcast, Barker delves into an unsolved murder with an unexpected twist that haunted her high school years in picturesque Laramie, Wyoming.
The Set
Step into 1980s New York City and the ‘crack era’ filled with violence and corruption. This podcast by Emmy-winning creator Zak Levitt delivers an unflinching documentary, that unveils the jaw-dropping story of the NYPD’s biggest corruption scandal, exposing the dark underbelly of law enforcement.
Don’t Panic with Anthony Atamanuik
Joined by a cast of hilarious co-hosts and comedy luminaries, Anthony Atamanuik delves into the realm of outlandish predicaments and irrational fears, to offer sage advice on surviving everything from killer bee attacks to quicksand quagmires. Escape into the realm of the improbable, where laughter reigns supreme and discover the secret to surviving every worst-case scenario.
Spy Valley: An Engineer’s Nuclear Betrayal
Taking us back to when Silicon Valley against the backdrop of the Cold War’s climax, this podcast tells the remarkable (and true) story of James Harper, an engineer whose insatiable ambition jeopardised national security. Lose yourself in this gripping tale of intrigue and espionage, nuclear secrets, double agents, and the relentless pursuit of truth, all narrated by James Harper himself.
Strike Force Five
Listeners are invited to an exclusive rendezvous co-hosted by the kings of late-night television, Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers and John Oliver. This unprecedented podcast promises an intimate glimpse into the world of celebrity, Hollywood, late-night and more, and was set up to support the hosts’ dedicated writing staff while they remain on strike.
Good Bad Billionaire
In this intriguing podcast, Simon Jack and Zing Tsjeng unravel the fortunes of the world’s wealthiest elite. With a discerning eye, they explore the stories behind the fortunes, probing the ethical and moral dimensions that define them. Join in their quest to discern whether these financial titans are virtuous icons or mere billionaires in a podcast that explores opulence, ambition and conscience, and will challenge your perception of wealth.
New & Noteworthy Albums
Kylie Minogue Tension
Marking an exciting new chapter in her iconic career, Kylie Minogue’s new album shines a light on the singer’s signature style and energy. Collaborating with longtime partner Richard ‘Biff’ Stannard and Duck Blackwell, Minogue has created an album that blends personal reflection, club abandon and melancholic highs to offer a dynamic and captivating listening experience. Fans can anticipate an eclectic mix of songs that celebrate individuality while showcasing Minogue’s talent and versatility.
Song to start with: Padam Padam
The Pretenders Relentless
The Pretenders return with their latest album, Relentless, showcasing the dynamic songwriting collaboration between Chrissie Hynde and guitarist James Walbourne. Produced by Dave Wrench, this album boasts a talented lineup known as ‘The Pretenders Collective,’ including James Walbourne, Kris Sonne, Chris Hill, Dave Page and Carwyn Ellis. With its infectious energy and diverse musicality, Relentless solidifies The Pretenders’ enduring presence in the rock music landscape.
Song to start with Let the Sun Come In
Doja Cat Scarlet
Fuelled by a desire to redefine her artistic identity, Doja Cat is steering away from the pop realm that initially garnered her acclaim, to instead, embrace hip hop and R&B. With chart-topping singles like Paint The Town Red igniting anticipation, Scarlet promises to be an opulent soundscape of musical reinvention. As Doja Cat embarks on The Scarlet Tour, the album heralds a new era in her career, solidifying her status as a trailblazing artist.
Song to start with: Paint The Town Red
James Blake Playing Robots Into Heaven
The latest album from James Blake heralds a magnificent return to his electronic roots. This album, born from modular synth improvisations during his tours, showcases a mesmerising fusion of dubstep, techno, and house, enveloped by the artist’s signature melancholic allure. Blake’s vocals shine, crafting evocative narratives and offering a captivating blend of raw energy and sonic innovation. A release that proves how Blake remains at the top of his game.
Showcasing the transformative power of nature in colourful carats and spectacular stones, Gucci’s new high jewellery collection, Allegoria, has been meticulously crafted to take us on a jaw-dropping journey through each of the four seasons.
Unveiled at a special event in Florence, Gucci’s exquisite high jewellery collection is an allegory of the cycle of the four seasons. Beginning with spring, the awakening of nature is expressed through precious stones in lively, fresh hues, reminiscent of blooming flowers. Summertime is next, indicated by a plethora of emeralds and Paraiba tourmalines that radiate the essence of the warm season. Pulling back for autumn, the season of calm before winter sets in, the jewellery carries stones of a more muted, warm palette, where yellow sapphires, pink tourmalines and mandarin garnets deliver a delicate softness. Winter arrives with iridescent opals, European-cut antique diamonds and stones that twinkle with subtle colours, signalling the closure of the cycle and the promise, once more, of a new beginning.
Explore the sensory journey of Gucci Allegoria below.
Gucci Allegoria Bracelets, Lionhead ring, and earrings
Since opening on Ponsonby Road, Azabu has established itself as one of Auckland’s most consistently popular and universally beloved dining spots. Sought out for its signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours and dishes that highlight fresh ingredients, Azabu hits the mark every time we visit (and trust us when we say, we have certainly visited a lot). A few years ago, its popularity grew even further when Azabu expanded its reach into Mission Bay, opening in the historic Mission House site adjacent to the beach. And while the two outposts are similar, they boast their own unique vibes and distinct menus, both things that have continued to cement their status as two of this city’s busiest dining destinations. Now, both Azabu Ponsonby and Azabu Mission Bay are unveiling delicious new menus for the season ahead, and we couldn’t be more excited to book a table.
Left: Yakiniku Right: Charred Corn Salad
Shaking up the menus that we all know and love are a raft of tantalising dishes that play into Azabu’s slightly lighter take on Japanese cuisine, dreamt up and perfected by Azabu’s talented chefs and designed for summer’s long, warm days and nights. Across both venues, fresh additions include a 250g grain-fed sirloin Yakiniku, served with Tokyo onions, wasabi and spring onion, as well as a particularly delicious, premium Carrera wagyu (a grade 8-9) that is served with caramelised onion waft, garlic chips and wasabi.
There are also a few new sushi rolls, including a Piri Piri Tuna Roll with spicy piri piri sauce and tempura crumb and a Spider Roll with soft-shell crab, cucumber kimchi and sichimi pepper.
Spider Roll
Perfect for those who seek out fresh seafood in summer, the new Omakase Nigiri offering comprises a chef’s selection of fresh market fish finished with mouthwatering Japanese flair, while a raft of delectable and delicate tiradito and ceviche dishes are set to serve up a flavour sensation, including a Lychee Ceviche with rocoto ponzu, sesame, wakame, avocado and shichimi lotus chip, and an Aji Amarillo Coconut Ceviche with white fish, pineapple, green pepper, red onion, aji amarillo, coconut cream, chilli and lime.
New sides include a delicious Charred Corn Salad with red onion, coriander and soy lime dressing and a Grilled Satsumaimo, which sees sweet potato grilled and served with sweet soy, kewpie mayo, spring onion and sesame.
Left: Grilled Octopus Right: Lychee Ceviche
Of course, Azabu’s new dishes are best when enjoyed with an ice-cold Asahi, a satiating cocktail or a sake, whether you’re cosily nestled in Azabu Ponsonby’s atmospheric dining room, or enjoying the sun in Azabu Mission Bay’s beachside courtyard.
And if all of this wasn’t enough, Azabu Mission Bay will also be extending its hours from the 23rd of October to accommodate early-week, long lunches that make the most of the spring and summer weather.
So, even if you’ve enjoyed Azabu’s famous hospitality recently, we suggest getting some friends together and booking a table at either Azabu’s Ponsonby or Mission Bay venues to experience its delightful new dishes for yourself. Delivering an early indication that we’re in for a long, convivial summer of tasty lunches and dinners, Azabu has certainly set the bar high, but we wouldn’t expect anything less.
For anyone who doesn’t know, this week is Negroni week, a global celebration in its eleventh year that pays homage to the classic cocktail made from a wonderfully bitter, punchy and satiating mixture of Campari, vermouth and gin. And while the week itself only runs until the 24th of September, Campari and the QT Auckland in Viaduct Harbour have decided to team up to extend the celebrations for a whole month, as QT Auckland’s Rooftop plays host to a convivial collaboration that honours this universally-beloved tipple and its Italian spirit.
From now until the 29th of October, Campari is staging a takeover of QT Auckland’s famous Rooftop, filling it with touches of Italian style and Milanese flair that promises to transport us to a world of suave sophistication and after-dark glamour. Marking Campari’s first official Negroni Week activation in New Zealand, the brand has (understandably) pulled out all the stops, offering a delicious selection of vibrant Campari cocktails, underpinned of course, by the signature Negroni, as well as a series of special Sunday sessions, Rooftop at QT’s Sunday Club, which will see a raft of Negroni specials, $2 oysters and a menu designed in collaboration with Campari to complement the Italian aperitif. If all that wasn’t enough, Auckland’s best DJs will be on hand to provide the perfect soundtrack to festivities, which means that all we have to do is enjoy a sundowner or two while taking in the exquisite, panoramic views of Auckland that have long made the Rooftop at QT such a sought-after spot.
So gather your nearest and dearest and take your weekend celebrations to another level with Campari at QT Auckland. Whether you consider yourself a Negroni purist or not, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy in an experience that will make you feel like you’re truly escaping the city, if only for a few hours.
You may have sampled your fair share of Korean fried chicken and bibimbap but what about tteokbokki and sundaeguk? In Auckland we are lucky enough to be spoilt with an excellent range of Korean eateries, serving up time-honoured and contemporary dishes alike. From the truly authentic to modern interpretations, these are the best Korean restaurants in town.
Helmed by Auckland hospitality veteran David Lee, Aigo was a concept born from his desire to put Korean cuisine on the mainstream map. And really, that’s exactly what he has done. Aigo was opened as delicious noodle spot on Ponsonby Road, and six months later, Lee opened a second outpost in Newmarket. The food at both spots is undeniably delicious, with the Ponsonby location more focused on an array of mouthwatering noodle dishes (like Mapo Tofu Hand Pulled Noodles with silken tofu and pork in a Sichuan chilli sauce) and the Newmarket outpost offering something slightly different (the Korean barbecue take on T-bone steak served with soy mustard, onion brûlée and confit garlic is out of this world). Whichever location you go to, it’s clear the Aigo team’s dedication to reimagining classic Korean dishes and flavours for the discerning modern palette. With an ever-evolving offering and a desire to keep pushing culinary boundaries, Aigo has become one of our absolute favourite places for a delicious and satiating bite.
Left: The Place’s Bibimbap Right: Aigo Newmarket’s T-bone Steak
If you’re in search of authenticity, look no further than The Place in Takapuna. This restaurant has it all, from classic Korean fried chicken to more adventurous dishes like pork back-bone potato soup (a very common delicacy in South Korea). The Place is a go-to spot for Korean families as the wholesome and hearty dishes accurately reflect what one might find on the streets of Seoul. We suggest you gather some friends, go in a group and order the gul bossam. Enough to feed at least four, it consists of a large platter of pork belly, lettuce wraps, spicy kimchi and comes with fresh oyster salad.
Started by renowned Korean chef Jason Kim (known for his work at Commercial Bay’s Gochu and also his tenures in the kitchens of Sidart, Cassia, The Grove and Clooney) Tokki is a delicious restaurant and wine bar serving the kind of Korean food you’re unlikely to have ever tried before. Born in Korea but raised in New Zealand, Kim creates cuisine that is beloved for the way that it straddles the two cultures in which he was raised — where authentic bites are delivered in a contemporary way, and fresh New Zealand produce is harnessed to create truly unique dishes. Tokki’s menu heroes pared-back but delightfully inspired cuisine that puts an unexpected twist on authentic flavours, while its inviting space, set in the heart of Milford’s bustling main street, offers a calm, refined haven. Kim describes the Tokki menu as authentic fare, where the food offers a more playful take on Korean cuisine without losing its refined edge. And with an ever-changing seasonal menu to reflect Kim’s focus on fresh ingredients, it’s definitely worth heading to this spot more than once — no two times will be the same. Ultimately, Tokki offers considered and elevated traditional dishes that reimagine classic street-food tropes and snacks that speak to the chef’s heritage. And trust us when we say that everything here is utterly delicious.
When Gochu landed in Commercial Bay, it quickly carved out a reputation for serving some of the tastiest Korean fare in town. More contemporary than traditional, with cuisine described as ‘New Korean’, Gochu offers the perfect dining experience for both seasoned fans of Korean flavour and novices looking to whet their appetite. The cold noodles are excellent, as is the famous fried chicken (which packs a serious spice punch). The Gochu cordon bleu with crumbed pork, raclette cheese and spicy Worcestershire is also a showstopper, while the pillowy-soft milk buns filled with spicy pork and kimchi and served with beurre blanc are a cult-favourite, known to regularly sell out within the first few hours of service. With Co-Owner and Executive Chef, Nathan Lord at the helm, Gochu continues to go from strength to strength, and is always at the top of our list when dining downtown.
Don’t be deterred by the location of this restaurant — Tae Neung is the real deal. Tucked away next to the Albany Rosedale Motel, this is without a doubt one of Auckland’s best Korean BBQ restaurants, even people from the other side of town venture over just to satisfy their Korean cuisine cravings. The menu offers a range of different cuts of meat, but it’s the fresh beef short ribs and marinated beef short ribs you need to go for. End your feast with the mulnaengmyun, a cold buckwheat noodle dish that is unbelievably refreshing and cleansing on the palate.
Described as putting the ‘Soul from Seoul into Ponsonby’, Ockhee has injected plenty of flavour into Auckland’s most popular strip since it opened in 2020. Owners Paul Minkyu Lee and Lisa Lee have taken authentic Korean food and added familiar Kiwi-style elements to create fresh, harmonious plates. With a menu that boasts as many thoughtful vegetarian options as it does meat dishes, Ockhee’s delicious offering is a must-try. Som highlights include the Japchae Noodle, comprising kumara noodles, capsicum, carrot, mushroom, onion and sesame oil (and a dressing that packs a punch of fresh, authentic flavour), the Bul Bo Ssam, which sees melt-in-your-mouth, slow-braised pork, flame grilled in Ockhee’s signature spicy sauce and of course, the Dak Gang Jeong, Ockhee’s take on Korean Fried Chicken served with either sweet chilli and roasted peanut glaze or spicy soy and sesame glaze. All of this deliciousness is made even better served with a natty wine from Ockhee’s curated list.
Nestled amongst avocado on toast and eggs benedict, you’ll find modern Korean food at its most creative at all-day eatery Simon & Lee. The menu showcases classic Korean ingredients and cooking techniques in a clever, approachable and undeniably delicious way. Favourites include the bulgogi spaghetti with grilled beef, shiitake mushrooms and glistening egg yolk, along with any of the dolsot dishes (served in a sizzling stone pot). The fried chicken is a signature for a reason, with flavours like wasabi soy and danger spicy to pique your palate.
Another hotspot for Korean BBQ is Red Pig in the CBD. Staying true to its name, this restaurant specialises in cuts of pork. With charcoal grills on each table, a smoky aroma is infused into every succulent slice of pork and works to cut through the meat’s richness. Although the frozen cuts are available (and cheaper), always go for the fresh ones as the flavours are more vibrant and the overall experience will be more enjoyable. Other cuts you could try are the neck, jowl and even the intestines if you’re wanting to take yourself out of your comfort zone.
Soups and stews are probably the most prevalent dishes in Korean cuisine, even more so than fried chicken and BBQ meats. The soups at Teolbo go beyond the regular. Think hearty lamb, whole chicken with ginseng and arguably the most popular, blood sausage soup. Also known as ‘sundaeguk,’ this soup comprises a deep bone broth, with sausages filled with glass noodles and served with pork offal and offcuts.
Offering a slightly more refined yet very authentic Korean dining experience is Jami in Wairau Valley. From the presentation of the dishes to the ambience of the restaurant, Jami proves that Korean cuisine isn’t limited to cheap prices and cheerful environments. Jami is also one of the rare restaurants in town that serves ganjang saewoo, which translates to raw prawns. This may sound odd to some, but if you’re a seafood fanatic, you can’t go past this one. The raw prawns boast plump textures and have been soaked in sweet soy sauce to cut through the ocean flavour.
When it comes to a fun-filled Korean dining experience, Pocha is our favourite place to go for a spot of soju on the weekend. Soju is the number one Korean alcoholic beverage and we are warning you — this stuff is strong. As food is mandatory when drinking soju, Pocha’s menu features the best of Korean ‘pub grub’. From almond cornflake fried chicken to tteokbokki (rice cakes in spicy sauce with melted cheese), everything that comes out of Pocha’s kitchen is guaranteed to impress.
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