Savor Food Festival returns this month with 55 days of exceptional food and wine, bringing more than 70 events to 14 of Auckland’s leading venues from mid-August until mid-October. From one-night-only chef collaborations to ambitious winemaker dinners and menus created expressly for the occasion, the most coveted tables are unlikely to remain available for long. These are the Savor experiences worth booking now.
Exclusive Events
Penfolds Presents Danielle Alvarez
When: Wednesday, 23rd September
Where: Bivacco
Acclaimed Australian chef Danielle Alvarez arrives at Bivacco for an exclusive evening of produce-led cooking and exceptional Penfolds wine. Having worked at The French Laundry and Sydney’s celebrated Fred’s before becoming Culinary Director of the Sydney Opera House, Alvarez has earned a reputation for letting impeccable ingredients lead. Here, her seasonal menu will be paired course by course with Penfolds, accompanied by the stories behind the food and every glass.
Amano x Craggy Range Winemaker Dinner
When: Thursday, 27th August
Where: Amano
For one night only, Amano Executive Chef Dino and Craggy Range Executive Chef Casey McDonald will combine their talents on a seasonal collaborative menu. Each course will celebrate outstanding New Zealand produce and arrive expertly matched with Craggy Range wines, offering diners a rare opportunity to experience the distinct perspectives of two exceptional kitchens on one plate.
An Evening with Terra Sancta
When: Thursday, 10th September
Where: Ortolana
Terra Sancta founder Sarah Elliott joins Ortolana for an intimate multi-course dinner celebrating the produce of the season and the character of Central Otago. Every dish will be paired with wine from the acclaimed estate, making this one-night-only event essential for those who appreciate thoughtful food and expressive New Zealand wine.
Bivacco After Dark
When: Saturday, 12th September
Where: Bivacco
Making its festival debut, Bivacco After Dark brings dinner, live entertainment and late-night revelry together in one waterfront experience. The evening begins with a cocktail on arrival, followed by a curated shared menu. As the night progresses, elegant dining gives way to live performances, dancing and a high-energy after-dark celebration.
Wagyu Deluxe with Robert Mondavi Wines
When: Thursday, 17th September
Where: Ebisu
Ebisu will devote an entire evening to two formidable culinary pleasures: premium Wagyu and the iconic wines of Robert Mondavi Winery. Across five courses, guests will experience exceptional New Zealand and Japanese Wagyu prepared in a variety of considered ways, with world-class Californian wines poured throughout.
Aperitivo with Sir John Kirwan
When: Friday, 25th September
Where: Non Solo Pizza
Spend an evening in the company of one of New Zealand’s sporting greats as Sir John Kirwan brings JK.14 Wines and a wealth of compelling stories to Non Solo Pizza. Italian-inspired aperitivo, generous hospitality and relaxed conversation set the scene for a memorable event dedicated to great wine and even better company.
Wet Jacket Winemaker Dinner
When: Wednesday, 30th September
Where: Bivacco
Chart a course through Fiordland and Central Otago with Wet Jacket Wines at Bivacco. Hosted by Vigneron and Captain Greg Hay alongside First Mate Ali Caird, the evening will combine a seasonal menu with a line-up of boutique wines and the fascinating stories behind each bottle. Expect an immersive voyage through some of the South Island’s most dramatic landscapes and distinctive wine regions.
