Sitting pretty within the SkyCity precinct, Michael Meredith’s Metita occupies the space formerly home to beloved Gusto at The Grand, and it’s fair to say that the elevated eatery is living up to the iconic nature of its address. A more than perfect spot for convivial meals and elevated gatherings alike, Metita has become known for its exceptional hospitality, and nowhere is this more evident than in the eatery’s Private Dining Room — the perfect backdrop for an intimate get-together. If you have an event on the cards, we have an exclusive offer for Denizen readers, with Metita offering a generous $200 off all bookings (for a limited time only).
Metita was named after Meredith’s mother and was inspired by his upbringing in Samoa. As such, the eatery is a comment on the richness of Polynesian culture, brought to life through the chef’s inventive take on Pasifika cuisine. Here, Meredith elevates traditional dishes with modern culinary techniques, inspiring a deeper reverence for our own heartland and connection to his native Samoa.
Sign up to our free EDM subscription today.
The space itself acts as a vessel for storytelling, taking its inhabitants on a journey through the sights and sounds of the South Pacific. Meredith’s culture is honoured with clever but subtle nods that speak of daily life on the Islands. The lighting subtly resembles fishing baskets and tropical flowers, while the palette reflects the ever-changing colours of the ocean and sky. Elsewhere, the link continues with woven elements and lush, verdant greenery. The culmination of all of these carefully considered elements is a restaurant that feels homely but elevated, striking a beautiful balance between modernity and informality.
The pinnacle of Metita’s dining experience, though, is the venue’s exquisite Private Dining Room. The exceptionally well-appointed space is enveloped in dark wooden panels, with an enclosed cellar housing an incredible collection of fine wines lining one wall and a striking, Pasifika-inspired artwork adorning another. A long central table anchors the room, with soft lighting overhead setting a relaxed yet refined tone. With an innate elegance and sophisticated yet homely feel, the private room makes for a perfect place to enjoy anything from an intimate formal meal to a more revelrous evening with friends, family, or colleagues.
The food offering, as you’d expect given Meredith’s reputation as one of the city’s best chefs, is exceptional — the inventive yet approachable menu crafted with discerning diners in mind. Bringing together a plethora of textures, flavours and techniques, calling on a unique ingredients list to deliver something truly unique, the offering spans more traditional fare such as Charred Fe’e (octopus), and Fried Manoika (cassava), served alongside simpler dishes, with Natural Oysters with hibiscus vinegar, Fried Pork Belly with spiced caramel, and Braised Lamb Shanks with a coconut gravy all featuring on the set menu.
Metita’s private dining space can seat 26 but just as easily caters to smaller groups, with a minimum of eight guests and no required minimum spend. Bringing the very best of Metita’s offering into focus to create a night that’s sure to be remembered, Metita’s Private Dining Room is perfect for any special occasion on the horizon, or just as appropriate for a long overdue chance to celebrate life with friends.
Metita is offering Denizens an exclusive discount, taking $200 off any Private Dining Room booking with the code ‘Denizen’ at booking (bookings must be made by September 30th). Lock in your private event for the upcoming season at Metita’s Private Dining Room here.
skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/metita
