In need of a chop? Here’s where to find the best hair salons in Auckland

9 Aug 2023

A great hair day doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment. One ritual that never fails to elevate our mood is the regularly scheduled visit to our favourite hair salon for a cut, colour and catch-up (or some solitude, if that’s what you desire). Auckland knows no shortage of brilliant salons, each beloved by a loyal following of devoted clientele, who return time and time again to elevate their appeal. From the new guard operators to the stalwarts who have stood the test of time, the salons that follow are our very best.

Colleen, Karangahape Road
With its recognisable window of greenery, Colleen invites its many loyal clients to sit back and relax — even among the urban buzz of Karangahape Road. Founded by top New Zealand hairstylist Lauren Gunn, the salon may have a casual, carefree vibe — but it’s backed up with a truckload of skill and attention to detail from each of the talented stylists. The overall philosophy centres on helping clients achieve their hair goals while keeping each head of tresses in tip-top condition, and Colleen’s team are an inspiring bunch, often involved in editorial fashion projects, which gives them a well-rounded viewpoint and skillset.

Commune, Grey Lynn
From Grey Lynn’s The Scrapyard, the perennially-cool Commune is known for facilitating a seriously good chop. Director Leigh Keepa is a master at his craft, cutting curls in a non-prescriptive manner to emphasise natural body, without attempting to fit into the latest trends or moulds. A true saviour for our ringlets indeed. We’re also incredibly enamoured with the salon’s dispensary, a refillery concept that seeks to reduce the environmental impact of beauty products while still recognising salon quality superiority.

Stephen Marr, Newmarket
Having built up something of an embassy, with its fresh and uncontrived approach to hair and beauty, Stephen Marr is undeniably one of Auckland’s greats. Thanks to its popular salon in Newmarket, the stylists here have been recognised as industry favourites by designers, directors, photographers, and of course, the salon’s most loyal clientele.

ANCO Studio, Viaduct Harbour
From it’s extremely picturesque Viaduct Harbour vantage point, ANCO Studio’s devoted clients will attest that this salon’s stylists do hair best. If you manage to find a spot on his books, salon director Adrian Deng has earned himself the title of one of the City’s best blonde colourists, having mastered hair transformations that feel more like wizardry than simple human touch.

D&M Hair Design, Ponsonby
Multi-award winning salon D&M Hair Design was founded by Danny Pato and Michael Sisaengrath 15 years ago and remains beloved and respected today for its high calibre of service and skill — plus, a hefty dose of creativity. The team’s passion for what they do is palpable, with a comprehensive in-house training programme that keeps each stylist, colourist and assistant abreast of the latest international trends and techniques. Instantly recognisable from the large-scale photo editorials on its Redmond St windows, D&M’s lively salon and its resident team welcome even new clients like old friends.

Ryder, Britomart
Something of a stalwart in Auckland’s hairdressing scene, Britomart’s award-winning salon Ryder has been operating since 1999 under the meticulous and brilliant eye of Greg Murrell. The salon’s history has been deftly intertwined with the local fashion industry, shaping some of the most iconic looks that have defined on-shore trends. Within the salon, Ryder also proudly hosts the work of artist Michael Parekowhai — speaking to the multi-faceted appeal of this institution.

M11 Studio, Newmarket
Staking its luxurious place on the corner of Newmarket’s McColl Street, M11 Studio has solidified its reputation for excellence across all categories of haircare, styling, maintenance, and even makeup services, since it was founded by Mobeen Bhikoo and Trish Mathews in early 2016. Both have decades of experience in the industry, and a great eye for contemporary cuts and colours that are expertly executed to be effortlessly worn by their clients — as do M11’s team of highly accomplished and experienced stylists. From the moment one is welcomed into the award-winning, Hare Interiors-designed salon, an appointment at M11 is a welcome oasis of pampering, fit for the most discerning of clients.

Hèlmut, Grafton
This intimate wee Grafton salon represents the new vaguard of salons that we find utterly enticing. Small and pared-back in its nature (thanks to a meticulous interior fit-out by Katie Lockhart Studio), the team here is close-knit and incredibly talented, with a slant toward an editorial-inspired appeal. If it’s bold and brave colours and copper tones you seek, few do it better than Hèlmut.

Hare & Hunter, Remuera
This Remuera-based salon has only been taking care of Eastern Suburbs’ tresses since 2020, but has garnered an excellent reputation thanks to its owner. Alongside specialising in lived-in looks, Brooke Mann has become one of the most sought-after bridal stylists in known, known for her signature tousled looks that only serve to enhance life’s most perfect moments. Alongside weddings, Mann’s vast and varied services can be employed for any upcoming events too.

Dakota, Ponsonby
Specialising in the kind of lived-in blonde that is genuinely low maintenance, Becca Brown has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best blonde colourists in the City. The salon itself is small and intimate, and from its Richmond Road address, it is a must-visit for anyone seeking the beach babe blonde.

Una, Kingsland
If you’re looking to have your tresses tended to by the best, make for Kingsland-based salon Una, who were recently awarded New Zealand salon of the year at the industry awards. Whether it’s beautifully blended balayage or a chic French bob you seek, you’ll be in good hands here.

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This luxurious home in Sydney’s Northern Beaches proves the case for custom-made furniture and art

9 Aug 2023

In Sydney’s Northern Beaches lies Pavilion House by Nina Maya, a sleek bungalow that capitalises on its surroundings while showcasing an impressive collection of custom-made furniture and art to offer the ultimate escape from city life.

With the entire design realm at your fingertips, creating a home that answers your personal needs could seem like an insurmountable task. But this was not the case for Nina Maya, the design doyenne behind Nina Maya Interiors, who, upon acquiring a single-storey pavilion house in Avalon, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, set out to transform it into a breathtaking beach retreat that captures the essence of her design philosophy. The interior of the house exudes a sense of minimalism, relaxed sleekness and neutrality, providing the perfect canvas to showcase the meticulously-crafted custom lighting, furniture and artworks.

Being both the designer and client, Maya had the freedom to transform the simple existing structure into her dream beach house. Every detail of the address, from the initial design concept to the commissioned pieces, was thoughtfully curated to create an utterly serene home. The result is a haven of tranquillity that not only reflects Maya’s unique design approach but also highlights the exceptional talents of the collaborators involved in the project.

“The kitchen joinery seamlessly merges with the walls, creating a minimalist backdrop that allows the exquisite Brescia green marble kitchen island and benchtops to take centre stage.”

Maya’s personal design philosophy is evident throughout the interior, which emphasises clean lines and a harmonious material palette, where detail is purposeful and poised. The walls, ceilings and living room floor are adorned with a velvety-textured micro-cement coating that delicately shimmers when bathed in light. The kitchen joinery seamlessly merges with the walls, creating a minimalist backdrop that allows the exquisite, Brescia green marble kitchen island and benchtops to take centre stage.

Yet it is the curated selection of distinctive artworks that add a touch of individuality and charm to the house. The dining room is graced by the mesmerising ‘Infinity Works’ light, a creation by artist Max Patté, while the kitchen features a playful resin form crafted by local artist Tan Arlidge. Each piece of furniture, lighting and artwork was custom-designed or commissioned exclusively for the house, showcasing Nina Maya Interiors’ unwavering commitment to delivering truly exceptional and unique pieces (and the designer’s incredible Rolodex of contacts). The furniture boasts rounded and voluminous forms, while the lighting fixtures, fastidiously crafted by Canadian designer Randy Zieber, are adorned with luxurious materials such as alabaster, marble and bronze.

“Maya’s personal design philosophy is evident throughout the interior, which emphasises clean lines and a harmonious material palette, where detail is purposeful and poised.”

Outside, the house is surrounded by a multi-faceted space that includes a pavilion with an outdoor bathroom, an inviting alfresco dining area, a circular fire pit and a lush garden with majestic gum trees and swaying palm trees. These sanctuaries seamlessly blend with the interior design, offering residents a luxurious extension to immerse themselves in the coastal landscape.

The Pavilion House perfectly complements Maya’s recent project, The Glasshouse in Paddington, serving as a testament to the designer’s ability to create bespoke designs, unparalleled craftsmanship, and extraordinary living experiences in both coastal and urban settings. It is an approach that sees her design vision continue to redefine the essence of luxury living, with an unwavering dedication to creating exceptional spaces that are a true reflection of her clients’ desires and aspirations.

Architecture — Maya Sternberg Architects
Interior Design — Nina Maya Interiors
Photography — Felix Forest

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From striking brooches to reimagined pearls, here’s why jewels on gentlemen are trending again

Words Annabel Davidson | 7 Aug 2023

In recent years, the topic of men appearing in jewellery has garnered column inches as if males wearing precious objects was an entirely new concept. Timothée Chalamet in a vintage Cartier brooch? OH MY GOD! A$AP ROCKY in pearls? SHUT THE FRONT DOOR! The inexpensive silver chain worn by the character Connell Waldron in the TV series Normal People? Cue its very own Instagram account (and millions of salivating fans).

Timothée Chalamet in a vintage Cartier brooch.

Obviously, men have been wearing jewellery for just as long as women. From the great maharajah’s of India who, at the turn of the 20th Century, traipsed across Place Vendôme in Paris to Boucheron, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and more with trunks of precious gemstones to be made into jewels, to the intaglio rings worn by ancient Roman men depicting various gods, to the neck-breaking mass of gold chains worn by the actor Mr T, to the gold jewellery of the Asantahene, the leader of the Ashanti people of West Africa (who at one point in history enlisted the help of a small boy so that he could rest his heavy, jewellery-laden arm on his head) — men in jewels is nothing new.

Granted, there was a time, particularly in the West, post-war or during a recession, when any display of wealth was disapproved of, that jewellery and precious metal objects were given for the war effort or melted down for cash. But slowly, men’s jewellery crept back in. And even earlier, when men’s jewellery wasn’t de rigueur, there was the Victorian craze for fancy tie-pins, bejewelled cufflinks and gold signet rings. The Catholic church itself has one of the greatest jewellery collections ever, granted most of it is now housed in St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

Today, men’s jewellery has crept out of the domain of footballers (hello David Beckham in diamond studs in the early noughties) and onto the red carpet on the figures of some of the most sartorially lauded men around. Michael B. Jordan, who remains coolly classic in what he wears, sported not one but two iconic Bird on a Rock brooches by Tiffany & Co. to the Oscars recently, the originals of which were designed by Jean Schlumberger in the 1960s featuring a golden cockatoo perched on enormous gems like tourmalines and peridots. The aforementioned Timothée Chalamet is a ‘friend of the maison’ that is Cartier, but word has it he genuinely collects vintage brooches, and the singer Labrinth is often seen wearing pieces like Van Cleef & Arpels’ Alhambra necklace and multiple chains. If there’s another sign that male jewellery lovers are now aiming for slightly more toned down, curated affairs than the mega-bussdown looks of the noughties, it may be the fact that the multi-disciplinarian artist Pharrell Williams has offloaded much of his personal jewellery collection on a dedicated website Joopiter.com, where a giant, multi-gem set N.E.R.D pendant went for over US$2.1 million, and a set of personalised grills made from gold-set diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires went for just under US$21,875. Met Gala aside, are men starting to tone their jewels back again? Maybe — but these things are cyclical. This is not the end of men in pearls.

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Meet Bar Beluga — the cute bar at the centre of Ponsonby’s new hospitality precinct, Rose Alley

4 Aug 2023

While the Three Lamps quarter has received a much-needed revival of late, the southern end of Ponsonby Road (and edging into Grey Lynn, really) has been crying out for a bit of attention. This month, it comes in the form of Rose Alley, a cute new food and drink precinct, where its cornerstone establishment, Bar Beluga, offers everything we’re seeking in a new watering hole.

Bar Beluga is the brainchild of Patrick Dillon, having most recently finished up an eight-year Beverage Manager tenure at Savor Group to embark on this vision. In Bar Beluga, he wanted to create a place that was friendly and down to earth. The Bar Beluga drinks menu is a concise edit of Dillon’s favourite wines and local craft beers (which we’re told will be everchanging), and the cocktail menu is small but mighty (boasting only concoctions at a time), where innovation reigns supreme.

Here the vibe was always to be approachable and a touch nostalgic. So much so that Dillion’s marinated goats’ cheese is served with Meal Mates, and one of the bar’s signature cocktails (aptly named School Camp) features Raro foam set atop ample measures of rum. The latter is on offer alongside bonafide classics, like a dirty martini (one the best we’ve ever tried). Other delicious additions to the snack menu include a warmed Daily Bread sourdough with herb butter and the charcuterie tray, which features fresh deli cuts sourced from locally-produced L’Authentique.

And while the bar is relaxed and casual, with pared-back furnishings, plants everywhere, and a glass ceiling through which the colours of sundown stream through, Dillon tells me that the vision, come warmer days, is to have DJs on Fridays and Saturday evenings — a notion that lends itself to the covered-courtyard style space.

Bar Beluga comprises just one of a few select tenancies in the just-opened Rose Alley, an address that was formerly The Vodka Room. Gutted and refurnished entirely, the space currently houses Pizza Monkey and bubble tea destination Twentea. We’ve also heard that soon the spot will open a Spanish tapas-style food truck, a small cafe and a gallery space. The intention, as Dillon explains, is for guests to flow freely through the spaces; maybe grabbing a slice of pizza and having it with a cold beer in Bar Beluga — a nice community-like feel, we think.

For now, the bar will open Wednesday through Saturday, from 3pm until late, making it the perfect new destination for some end-of-week knock-offs.

Bar Beluga

Rose Alley,
5 Rose Road,
Grey Lynn, Auckland

www.instagram.com/barbelugabar

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We’ve found the perfect product to elevate your morning deep cleanse routine

4 Aug 2023

Achieving radiant skin is the dream of many, but it can be a challenge. After all, our skin is constantly exposed to pollution, dirt and makeup, which can build up and clog pores, leading to breakouts and other skin problems.

That’s where deep cleansing comes in. Deep cleansers are designed to penetrate deeper into the skin than regular cleansers, removing all the impurities that can cause your skin to look dull and congested. But not all deep cleansers are created equal. If you want to achieve radiant skin, you need to use a deep cleanser formulated for your specific skin type.

For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you’ll need an non-comedogenic deep cleanser. This means that the cleanser will not clog your pores and will help to prevent breakouts. But this doesn’t mean the cleanser needs to be oil-free, as sometimes certain oils can be beneficial for the skin too. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you’ll need a deep cleanser that is hydrating and gentle. This will help to remove impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

But on rare occasions, you can find a cleanser that addresses every skin’s need, like the Sothys Morning Cleanser, a foundational skincare product that forms the basis of our daily regimes. The gentle daily enzyme cleanser, designed to wash away the night’s impurities, is formulated with soothing chamomile (a half-strength alternative to the brand’s coveted Desquacrem cleanser) — designed to target superficial clogging in drier or delicate skin types, as well as nourish sensitive skin types.

Just important as the product is the ritual. A deep cleanser should form the basis of your morning routine. While there have been trends of late that encourage us to move away from over-cleansing and, at times, ditching the morning cleanse altogether, our ever-busy lifestyles, use of daily makeup (in most instances) and use of overnight products are the reason such an effective deep cleanse is essential so early in the day.

Designed to soften the skin with simple, uncomplicated use (simply emulsify in your fingers, allow to penetrate damp skin for three minutes, and rinse), it’s the kind of product that easily folds into your daily routine and allows you to deep cleanse your skin with ease.

www.sothys.co.nz

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Why these simple, chic chains might just be the missing link in your accessory wardrobe

4 Aug 2023

A chain is a minimalist’s go-to accessory, partly because of its simple aesthetic but also because of its potential for layering. The best chains are the ones that not only make a subtle statement but that one can wear over and over again. From chunky, circular loops to subtle, asymmetrical shapes, these chic chains are the perfect foundation on which to build the rest of your accessory collection. Don’t be afraid to mix styles and metals (the more the merrier). Shop our favourites here.

Chain necklace edit — Elsa Peretti Aegean Toggle Necklace from Tiffany & Co.

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This beer-battered eggplant bao recipe is guaranteed to impress any dinner guest

3 Aug 2023

A feast for the eyes as well as the stomach, these beer-battered eggplant bao buns hit all the right flavour notes every time. Fresh and umami, soft and crunchy, tangy and creamy, they’re a moreish meal for any night of the week — no meat required. Amelia Ferrier of Melie’s Kitchen shares her recipe below.

Melie’s Kitchen Crispy 5-Spice Eggplant Bao Buns with Peanut Chilli Mayo, Hoisin & Pickled Radish

Makes 8 to 10 buns

Ingredients

Peanut Chilli Mayo
1/4 cup mayonnaise (I used Best Foods, Kewpie would be even better)
1 Tbsp smooth peanut butter
1 tsp sriracha chilli sauce (add more to taste)
1/2 tsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp chilli oil (optional)

Pickled Radish
4-5 radishes, thinly sliced into rounds
Pinch of sugar
Pinch of salt
2 Tbsp rice wine vinegar

Crispy Eggplant
2 medium eggplants
Salt for seasoning
4 cup Fogdog beer batter mix
About 3/4 cup beer
1/2 tsp Chinese 5-spice
Canola oil, for frying (about 1 litre)
4 Tbsp Lee Kum Kee hoisin sauce (plus extra to serve)

To serve
8-10 bao buns
1 cucumber, peeled into ribbons
Coriander, spring onion & toasted sesame seeds

Method

Make chilli peanut mayo
1. Combine all peanut chilli mayo ingredients together in a bowl and set aside to serve.

Make pickled radish & prep garnishes
1. Thinly slice radish and toss in a bowl with rice vinegar and a big pinch of sugar and salt. Set aside to serve.
2. Peel the cucumber into ribbons and thinly slice the spring onion. Set aside to serve.

Prep & cook eggplant
1. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise, then cut into half-moons roughly 1cm thick. Add to a large heat-proof bowl and season well with salt. Cover the bowl with a plate. Microwave on high in 2-minute intervals, giving the eggplant a toss after each interval, for 5-6 minutes in total. The eggplant should be softened, but not completely tender (it will finish cooking when fried).
2. Combine Fogdog beer batter mix, beer and Chinese 5-spice together in a medium bowl with a pinch of salt. The batter should be quite runny, similar to the consistency of double cream. You may need to add a little more beer, 1 Tbsp at a time, to get the right consistency.
3. Heat canola oil in a large frying pan with high sides on medium-high heat (the oil should be about 2cm high, I used about 4 cups). Test the oil is hot enough by drizzling in a little bit of the batter — if it bubbles up immediately, it should be ready to go.
4. Working in batches, toss eggplant pieces in the batter then fry in the oil for about 1 minute each side, until golden (I did mine in about 3 batches). Adjust the heat as needed while frying. It should be quite hot so the batter cooks in about 2 minutes — if the oil is not hot enough, they will take longer to cook and soak up more oil.
5. Transfer fried eggplant to a wire cooling rack between batches. This will allow any excess oil to drip off, and also prevents them from steaming and losing their crispiness.
6. Just before serving, add fried eggplant to a large bowl, drizzle over hoisin sauce and toss gently to coat.
7. Steam bao buns according to packet instructions. I heat mine in the microwave, you only need about 30 seconds for one bun (unless they are frozen).

Serve the bao buns spread with peanut chilli mayo and a little extra hoisin sauce. Top with eggplant, cucumber, pickled radish, spring onion and coriander. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.

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Dial up your denim with our curated edit of the best jeans, jackets, skirts and more from Muse

3 Aug 2023

There is a reason why denim has long been a mainstay in the winter wardrobe. Not only is it a durable, stylish and seasonally-appropriate fabric, but it delivers a chic, timeless edge to any look. Whether you opt for tried-and-true jeans, an oversized vintage jacket or the recently-trending long denim skirt (hello, 90s revival), there are a variety of ways for anyone of any taste to fold denim into their wardrobes, and winter provides the perfect opportunity to give our collections a shake-up.

In thinking about the exact denim pieces we need this season, it is to the sleek, sartorial experts at Muse that we turn. Not only do they offer a meticulously curated spread of styles, but they are careful to call in their denim from some of the world’s most coveted brands. Putting quality over quantity and always making sure that their line-up is interesting, varied and versatile, Muse has become a go-to for the local style set, many of whom rely upon this store to discover some of the best denim in town from brands that are internationally sought-after.

Here, we round up three such brands and delve into why each is deserving of a place in your seasonal wardrobe. Whatever your style, denim is forever, and Muse Boutique is the best place to find your next favourite piece.

Closed
For everyday classics

Here, French design meets Italian craftsmanship grounded in German tradition to make for a brand that puts heritage and history at the forefront. Closed was founded in 1978 and has, since then, built its reputation on creating collections that play on classical details. Timeless with a twist is how we would describe the pieces by this brand, making it perfect for purists who want something slightly more interesting than the ordinary.

Khaite
For elevated affairs

This New York-based brand has become the undisputed go-to for cool girls who live for the high-low dress code. Crafted with precision to offer utterly feminine, flattering cuts and premium quality, Khaite’s denim is a masterclass in elevating the everyday and gives a whole new meaning to the ‘jeans and a nice top’ look. Our advice? Double down. There’s nothing quite like head-to-toe denim when it comes from Khaite.

Tibi
For attention-grabbing details

If you are seeking something a little different, Tibi is your answer. Offering denim styles punctuated by exaggerated silhouettes, unique detailing, and laid-back looks, the denim collections from this iconic, New York brand have garnered global renown for their contemporary take on tradition and the way they always manage to remain at the forefront of trends.

museboutique.co.nz

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Pick up your next slice from Pizza Monkey — Ponsonby’s tasty new by-the-slice pizzeria

Words Margie Riddiford | 2 Aug 2023

There is nothing in this world so simple and so satisfying as a slice of perfectly-made pizza. From the chewy crust to the plethora of topping options and of course, the generous helpings of cheese that bring everything together, a slice of pizza can sometimes feel like it will solve anything. And now, there’s a cute new pizzeria in town that, from its woodfired bases to its hearty, flavoursome toppings, is set to satisfy all of our pizza cravings. Meet Pizza Monkey.

Located in Rose Alley (the newly-opened food and drink space in Grey Lynn) Pizza Monkey was started by Nikhil Satam who honed his hospitality expertise over years in renowned kitchens and venues around the world, and who wanted to start something that reimagined a traditional culinary art through a more innovative, modern lens. Pizza was the perfect vehicle.

At Pizza Monkey, as Satam explains, “our philosophy revolves around blending the finest elements of tradition and modernity,” which results in pizzas that feel classic and delicious but that also offer something a little different. Harnessing fresh, premium ingredients, the Pizza Monkey pizzas are made with mouth-watering fior di latte cheese (a semi-soft Italian mozzarella) and cooked in a purpose-made pizza oven, powered by Manuka wood to infuse every pizza with appealing smokiness.

In terms of toppings, the offering is vast and varied. Immediate standouts include the Miso Mushroom pizza and the Three Cheese Truffle pizza, the former of which is made with creamed kale, charred onions and mushrooms topped with delicious miso cream, the latter of which comprises white sauce, ricotta, parmesan, fior di latte and truffle cream and topped with housemade chimichurri. The pizzas here are able to be ordered as a whole pie, to share with friends, or by the slice, if you just want to pop in for a quick bite or sample more than one iteration.

Alongside the pizzas, Pizza Monkey also offers a range of satiating sides including thick-cut fries with paprika salt and garlic aioli, jalapeño bites with sriracha sauce and pesto and pea arancini balls.

From its cute fit-out to its very delicious pizza toppings, Pizza Monkey is the perfect place to pop into to satisfy any and all pizza cravings. And given its Rose Alley location, surrounded by a variety of other food and drink vendors (with more still to come) this pizzeria sits at the heart of what is fast becoming a bustling new hub of hospitality.

Rose Alley
5 Rose Road
Grey Lynn

021 0246 8616

www.instagram.com/pizzamonkeyponsonby/

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Auckland’s most popular steakhouse gets a refresh perfect for cold winter nights ahead

Words Margie Riddiford | 2 Aug 2023

During the long, drizzly Auckland winter, nothing is quite as appealing as cosying up in front of an open fire and tucking into a satiating steak. Because really, is there anything more seasonally appropriate? Well, it just so happens that our favourite place to do just that (Jervois Steak House, of course), has recently undergone an interior and menu refresh that is giving us every reason to book a table immediately.

The understated but undeniably chic new fit-out blends rustic elements from Jervois Steak House’s original design with a contemporary palette of warm colours alongside fresh fixtures and furnishings (including some very comfortable, plush leather dining chairs, perfect for sinking into over a delicious meal). A glow-up that honours the spirit of the heritage building but still delivers the cosy dining experience JSH’s die-hard fans know and love and reflects the premium quality of the food being served, this timely facelift has cemented Jervois Steak House as exactly the kind of place you want to while away wintry nights. Even better when you can secure the coveted table by the restaurant’s open fire.

Left: Pan-fried market fish Right: Burrata

Alongside the interior refresh is a new, refined menu where a variety of impeccable cuts of steak take centre stage. Several new, seasonal dishes have been added, including entrees like chicken liver parfait and grilled crayfish with lemon butter and mains like handmade gnocchi and pan-fried market fish (good enough to tempt even the most enthusiastic carnivores away from their go-to order). That said, customers now also have the option of topping any steak with a grilled half-crayfish in a luxurious take on the classic surf ‘n’ turf. There is also a line-up of new desserts, including brûleed coconut rice pudding and Manjari chocolate torte with caramelised white chocolate ganache.

From its refreshed but still familiar interior to its reimagined menu and cosy atmosphere, Jervois Steak House is offering the ultimate escape from this inclement weather and is a reminder of why the winter season really isn’t all that bad. So gather some friends or lock in a date night, and make your next booking here.

www.jervoissteakhouse.co.nz

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Melie’s Kitchen Crispy 5-Spice Eggplant Bao Buns with Peanut Chilli Mayo, Hoisin & Pickled Radish

Makes 8 to 10 buns

Ingredients

Method

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Gastronomy

Closed For everyday classics

Khaite For elevated affairs

Tibi For attention-grabbing details

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Coveted

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Gastronomy

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Gastronomy

Architecture — Maya Sternberg Architects
Interior Design — Nina Maya Interiors
Photography — Felix Forest

Closed
For everyday classics

Khaite
For elevated affairs

Tibi
For attention-grabbing details