This Friday, the 27th of October, Faraday’s Bar is extending an invitation to partake in an exquisite celebration of the world’s finest sparkling elixir in honour of International Champagne Day.
Renowned for its commitment to luxury, Faraday’s Bar is set to host an opulent Champagne celebration from midday until 9pm, where guests can explore the venue’s unrivalled selection and imbibe in the effervescent nectar either by the bottle or by the flute. One particular highlight will be the newly-released Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2015 Vintage, widely considered one of the best expressions of this convivial beverage.
Taking celebrations one step further, Faraday’s Bar will also bring out a complimentary surprise-and-delight trolley service, offering an array of gastronomic delights to satiate any craving, before kicking off a live music set from 5pm until 8pm, adding a harmonious note to what is shaping up as an unforgettable Friday night.
International Champagne Day is a remarkable occasion and an opportunity to revel in the finer things in life alongside like-minded connoisseurs. Faraday’s Bar, ensconced in its luxurious, department store setting, offers the ideal ambience for this extraordinary day. Promising to be a sought-after affair, reservations for Faraday’s Bar’s Champagne celebrations are essential and can be made here.
Established three years ago in Arrowtown (with a beautiful space on Buckingham Street) Astor Bristed Gallery now represents a range of contemporary New Zealand artists, and its reach has recently expanded into Auckland with an impressive pop-up space and exhibition on Faraday Street in Parnell.
Left: Astor Bristed Gallery on Faraday Street. Right: ASTEROID, 2023, Sarah Jayne Kavali
In its Auckland pop-up, the gallery has facilitated the collaboration of artist Sarah Jayne Kavali with interior designer Sommer Olsen, to offer an extension of Kavali’s original Paper Thin exhibition that first opened in Arrowtown in late September. For those unfamiliar, Kavali is a multi-disciplinary creative who has been making works of various kinds and scales for her clients for over twenty years. When Paper Thin first opened in Arrowtown, Kavali wanted to showcase how her unique artworks (either carefully placed clusters of scrunched-up paper or undulating ripples of copper sheeting) could redefine the boundaries of a room, and breathe life into their surroundings. It was a study of art not just as something to admire from a distance, but something more tangible, to be experienced and felt.
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In a way, there are many crossovers between Kavali’s practice and Olsen’s, where the latter began her now sought-after interior staging business (Exhibit One) from a fascination with spaces, and figuring out how to articulate them and make them sing. Now, Olsen even designs her own pieces of unique, bespoke furniture, creating them locally for clients with specific needs and making an artform out of the interior practice in which she has become a bona fide expert.
REVERIE, 2023 — bespoke bed by Sommer Olsen, Sarah Jayne Kavali
Now, the two creative forces have teamed up to offer a new iteration of Paper Thin, where Kavali’s incredible works are joined by a breathtaking bespoke bed, designed by Olsen and handcrafted in her workshop. Here, just as Kavali’s paper and copper works offer rippling lines and tactile, unpredictable shapes and present an invitation to onlookers to run their hands along the works’ uneven edges, Olsen’s bed is just as immersive, designed in a series of lines and curves that echo the art in the space. With its vast scale and sumptuous finish, this bed is the centrepiece of the exhibition, designed at the intersection of comfort and vulnerability, a place where visitors can take a moment to connect with their inner thoughts and find rest, respite and reflection.
Left: TEACHER’S PET, 2023, Sarah Jayne Kavali. Right: TALL GIRL, 2023 — bespoke table by Sommer Olsen, Sarah Jayne Kavali
Where the collaboration really bears fruit is in the ways in which Kavali’s works speak to ideas of legacy and evolution via their materials that will alter and patina over time. They introduce the idea that existence is ephemeral, ever-changing and fluid. Olsen’s bed builds on these ideas by inviting moments of inner reflection where visitors can take time to consider and explore the beauty of this concept — our ephemeral nature — and of our paper-thin illusions of permanence. The duo also collaborated directly to create a bold, bespoke table, its cylindrical base splashed with Kavali’s signature paint splatters.
Set in a ground-level space within the beautiful Fearon Hay building on Faraday Street, Astor Bristed Gallery’s Auckland pop-up is a must-visit for art and design lovers alike. On now until the 30th of October, this exhibition is already proving popular, with all pieces displayed available for purchase, including Kavali’s striking works and Olsen’s beds, of which only five were made and only three still available to buy. From the 7th of November, the space will transition into what Olsen has described as an “outdoor suite”, which will also be a collaboration with Kavali. Don’t miss out on this exceptional and immersive offering by paying a visit this week.
Opening hours: By appointment. Email Astor Bristed Gallery here to arrange a visit.
“I called it ‘Broke Boy’ ’cause I’ve always been broke,” Sean Yarbrough tells me, in his typically straightforward way. We’re discussing the evolution of Broke Boy Taco from scrappy pop-up to cult-followed culinary sensation to now, a place with a permanent address, something that Yarbrough explains happened without much of a plan. “I never thought I’d have my own restaurant,” he says, “but I needed one!”
Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Yarbrough spent 11 years in the Mission District of San Francisco, where he ate Mexican food every single day. It wasn’t until he whipped up some of his favourite tacos for a friend who asked what he missed most about the States, that Yarbrough started to realise that maybe he could turn his love for tacos into an actual career. “I bought a used, electric hot plate on TradeMe and made an Instagram account and just said, ‘Come try my tacos,'” he tells me. “First it was 20 people, the next time it was 50, then it was 100 and eventually it turned into what it is now.”
What Broke Boy Taco is now, is pretty major. Over the last couple of years, Yarbrough has hosted a series of pop-ups all over Auckland that became known for drawing significant and very enthusiastic crowds. His most recent endeavour was a pop-up residency at Ponsonby Social Club where, even after having run for months, his tacos would still sell out in a few hours — so consistent was the demand.
Now, Yarbrough is taking the exciting next step in Broke Boy’s evolution by opening a permanent spot in Mount Albert, and fans of his food are chomping at the bit to get their fix. Here, the space is pared-back and charming with hand-painted signs (by Sam Burton) and virtually no decor, while the menu is small and concise with Yarbrough’s signature birria tacos at the forefront. As he tells me, “No frills or fake shit, just good food.” For those who aren’t familiar with birria, it’s a type of meat stew that is a mainstay of Mexican cuisine. To make it right, the meat has to be marinated in adobo sauce, then cooked slowly in broth until it’s mouthwateringly tender and full of flavour. From what we’ve experienced, Yarbrough has perfected his recipe, although ask him and he says he’s always working to make it better.
The drinks menu is simple. “Coke is my favourite and happens to be the most consumed soda in Mexico so I chose that,” Yarbrough says. And while the food offering is more or less what we’ve come to expect from Broke Boy’s epic pop-ups, Yarbrough does divulge that he has added a ‘Big Plate’ option (which comes with four tacos, instead of the usual three) and that there will be a number of specials to come, so keep an eye out for those.
Ultimately, Yarbrough wanted to create a space where the food remained front and centre, a place that could as easily be found in Tijuana as it could in Auckland, and a place with authenticity and passion at the heart of its culinary philosophy. “I want people to leave happy,” he tells me. “Customers have to come pick up their tacos from me at the window when they’re ready and I’ll hand them their food personally, every time. That’s really important to me.” But for its simple facade and straightforward offering, do not underestimate the incredible standard of food being served at Broke Boy. Yarbrough, despite his understated approach, has proven himself a formidable force in the kitchen, and we’ll be watching with interest as Broke Boy continues to evolve. “I’m coming for all the food awards in New Zealand,” he says, with a laugh, “you watch!”
Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday, 5pm until 8pm Saturday, 12pm until 8pm
Somehow, we’ve blinked and it’s October. Labour Day is upon us, and with it comes the final long weekend of 2023. Luckily for those spending a leisurely few days in the city, there’s a host of fabulous food-related goings-on to fill the days. From the best local openings to where to take the kids to dine for free, Denizen has rounded up where to celebrate all things foodie and frivolous in Auckland this Labour weekend.
Ahi steward Ben Bayly’s much-loved TV show is about to air its third season, and once again the esteemed Chef has drawn on his learnings and discoveries whilst filming to bolster the restaurant’s already impressive offering. The result is a new tasting menu that pays homage to Aotearoa’s natural resources; pairing exceptional local ingredients with produce grown at Ahi’s organic gardens to create something truly unique. The concise menu, aptly dubbed ‘The New Zealand Food Story’, is exactly that: a tale of Aotearoa’s abundance, from the land to the sea and back again. Here, there is a focus on underutilised ingredients, think long-finned eel and yellow foot queen pāua served alongside the likes of Coromandel mussel bhaji and ever-changing seasonal salads. The tasting menu, available now and indefinitely, includes four snacks and four courses, plus an additional two koha items. At $165 per person secure your spot here.
Make your long weekend plans with the kids extra special and treat the whole family to a meal at Commercial Bay’s magnifique French destination: Origine. Serving consistently delicious French fare with spectacular views to match, Origine has solidified itself as a go-to spot for elevated dining and family outings alike. With a menu boasting French favourites from faux foie gras (a delectable truffle and duck liver pate) to steak haché (a classic French minced eye fillet steak with green peppercorn sauce & fries), to pinot braised boeuf bourguignon and les moules (an earthy-sweet saffron broth brimming with green lipped mussels and scampi), there’s something for everyone — including the mini gastronomic connoisseurs amongst us. The kids’ menu is a delight, featuring butterfish gougers with buttery peas and fries, fresh-handmade, buttered pasta with new-season asparagus, lamb vol au vents (a scrumptious French pie) and more. The clincher? Kids aged 12 and under now dine for free on the weekends. Merci beaucoup!
A tasty new offering is landing at Somm just in time for the long weekend. Now, every Sunday, Somm is offering two for one on their utterly delicious pizzas — perfect when paired with a crisp drop from their extensive cellar. Somm takes their pizza making seriously, with a 72-hour poolish dough that would delight even without the considered list of toppings. When it comes to choosing flavours, however, the potato, truffle, thyme and smoked brie is a sensation not to be missed, while the raclette, ‘nduja, honey and rosemary is a delightfully failsafe crowd pleaser. Somm’s menu has been carefully crafted to go hand-in-hand with any number of the exquisite wines on offer (pizzas included), so be sure to consult one of their trusted wine stewards who are on hand to ensure you’re selecting the perfect pairing. Sunday satiation has never looked better.
Broke Boy Taco, the hugely popular pop-up serving epic, cult-status birra tacos, has laid down roots in Mount Albert and we’re sure the loyal legions will flock. This long weekend, be one of the first to frequent what will undoubtedly soon be a mainstay in Auckland’s casual dining scene, and indulge in any number of chef Sean Yarbrough’s impressive signature tacos.
To mark Veuve Clicquot’s 250th anniversary, Bivacco has this week unveiled its very own interpretation of the classic Veuve Clicquot x burger pairing, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1964 New Yorker ad which saw a burger and glass of Clicquot dubbed the (un)official après l’Opera snack. Celebrating the storied wine maison and its unmissable yellow label, Bivacco has crafted a burger that borrows tasting notes from the signature crisp freshness of Clicquot. The result? A delightful scallop and prawn patty dressed with guindilla mayonnaise, topped with a handful of crisp lollo rosso to add a touch of crunch, all housed in a pillowy soft bun. Bivacco’s perfect pairing is available at the bar only, for a limited time so book your spot for the long weekend here now.
Mount Eden has just welcomed a cute new spot serving up delicious Korean-style doughnuts that deserve a place on your long weekend menu. Korean-born Chef, Eunsun Jung, is who we have to thank for Small Mercies’ delectable offering, which heroes Kkwabaegi (a traditional twisted Korean doughnut) and features experimental takes on local Korean delicacies such as Chapssal (glutinous rice doughnut balls) and Yakgwa (deliciously sweet, syrup-soaked biscuits) – all equally delicious. Small Mercies has all the makings of the perfect spot to come together with friends and indulge this weekend and beyond.
The newest bar and eatery from the maestros behind Ponsonby’s ever-popular Lucky 8 and Mount Eden’s Mr Hao is Jungle 8, and as the name may suggest, it’s a sight to behold. Taking inspiration from the bustling, fast-paced cities and countries of Southeast Asia, Jungle 8 offers not only a modern take on authentic Vietnamese street food, but also a space that brings the ‘organised madness and explosive energy’ of Southeast Asia to life. Set to be firmly on the radar of anyone looking to enjoy an evening of cheap and cheerful eats in an entirely immersive setting, Elliot Stables’ newest resident is sure to draw a crowd this summer season. Secure your spot for the long weekend ahead (while the masses are out of town) and experience the very best sights, sounds and flavours of Southeast Asia.
In the second instalment of its pop-up series in collaboration with Crayon, this long weekend Annabel’s is once again serving up an evening of jazz, great wine and delectable fare. Returning from a two-year hiatus, the Turtlenecks trio will be jamming out front of the neighbourhood wine bar from 8-9.30pm, so head there early to secure your spot at one of the outside tables, grab a glass from the carefully curated wine list, and ease into the long weekend in style.
Jervois Steakhouse’s hotly anticipated new seasonal menu has landed just in time for leisurely long weekend dining; the host of new dishes a delicious representation of the vibrancy of spring. A sharing cut of savannah rib eye served on the bone has been added, much to the delight of frequent diners, while zesty, Asian flavours sing in the gochujang glazed calamari. The Ponsonby institution’s much-loved West Coast whitebait fritters are back, the lemon butter sauce drizzled over top so irresistible that we considered taking a sip, and the French-inspired market fish du jour with petits pois and pancetta is the embodiment of spring fare. Secure your table for the weekend here, and enjoy the very best of the current season.
Otto hour has landed at Andiamo this week, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend a languorous long weekend afternoon. Otto translates to lucky number 8 in Italian, and lucky it is indeed, with an elevated selection of drinks during Otto hour priced at a modest $8. Running the happy hour from 4-5pm daily was a considered choice, timed to inspire locals to make like the Italians and take a moment of repose to enjoy the warmth of the late afternoon sun. Open throughout the long weekend, we encourage you to perch at one of Andiamo’s highly sought-after outdoor tables surrounding their Jervois Road post and live la dolce vita. Book here.
Giving us yet another reason to park up at one of Depot’s tall tables, Al Brown and his team have introduced a small selection of new dishes to the menu just in time for the weekend ahead. Capitalising on the height of asparagus season, Depot has added a ‘nduja and ricotta iteration that sees the hallmark of spring produce grilled to perfection. Elsewhere on the menu, wood-fired Cloudy Bay tua tua are paired with chorizo butter; melt-in-the-mouth kahawai is served spiced alongside smoky baba ganoush and tart pickled capsicums; and a braised leek flatbread with pickled fennel and beurre hblanc is a must-try. And as is the case with all of Depot’s offering, each of the new dishes are best when shared, so round up your friends and venture into the city this long weekend. There’s free parking for SkyCity patrons for the month of October, too.
Thanks to the Southeast Asian cuisine’s fresh and fragrant flavours, Vietnamese food has earned its place on our weekly rotation year-round, and in Auckland, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to world-class Vietnamese fare. From authentic, Hanoian takes to modern fusion offerings, these are the places turning out the best Vietnamese in town.
For some, Otahuhu may be a bit out of the way, but for us, it’s well worth the journey to Try It Out (literally). The eatery’s rare beef phở is some of the best we’ve tasted in the city and we are not the only ones who think so. The restaurant is always packed with locals as well as patrons from all corners of Auckland who have made the essential journey to satisfy their Vietnamese-specific cravings. If you’re wanting something a little different, step outside of your comfort zone and try the rare beef with tendons. It lends the phở an addictive bite and some are sure they can never go back to traditional beef phở after experiencing this authentic take.
Jungle 8 is Auckland’s newest Vietnamese joint turning out exceptional fare in an entirely immersive setting that brings to life the countries and cities of Southeast Asia. Unsurprisingly, the classics take centre stage at this inner-city eatery — from aromatic wagyu phở, to Vietnamese mainstay, pork bánh mì, to crisp spring rolls brimming with soft crab and spiced pork (some of the best we’ve tasted); served alongside modern takes such as crispy, subtly spiced eggplant, hot and sour salmon and a show stopping young coconut and prawn salad, all accompanied by an impressive list of cocktails that conjure heady southeast streets.
A self-proclaimed ‘melange of heady flavours and aromatic spices’, Ponsonby Road’s Le Vietnamese Kitchen is renowned for having some of the tastiest modern Vietnamese in the city. The eatery has earned a reputation for its considered offering and inspired take on the classics. Make like a Viet local and opt for the crispy half duck with aromatic salt and sticky orange ginger glaze or the cult-status popping prawns, or branch out and order our pick — the kaffir lime and lemongrass chicken, perfectly paired with coconut and a chilli satay sauce.
Turning out fantastic, authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Devonport, Cafe Hung Viet is one of the city’s hidden gems. With chefs hailing from Hanoi, the fare is a take on Hanoian classics. Here, the beef phở is exceptional, brimming with fragrant, fresh herbs and paper-thin strips of tender rare beef. The Vietnamese locals also specialise in the classic bánh mì, where chicken liver pâté is paired with either crisp pork belly, grilled chicken or lemongrass tofu, topped with fresh chilli and coriander. Outstanding.
It would be remiss of us to round up the city’s best Vietnamese eats without including the utter institution that is Cafe Hanoi. This Britomart-based eatery has consistently served up elevated, modern, Hanoian-style Vietnamese to city dwellers for over a decade, and continues to deliver on all fronts. Recently moving sites to occupy the chic, two-level space opening into the laneway of The Hotel Britomart, the restaurant lends itself to both formal and casual dining, with a menu that caters to any and every need. Aside from the infamous phở ga, which is always a must, the fresh rice paper rolls – in particular, the tofu, pineapple and crisp sesame cracker iteration, must not be missed.
This Burswood favourite heroes beef phở, and take their craft very seriously, providing a grand total of nine different variations of the Vietnamese delicacy. At Saigon Kitchen, the deluxe phở is the way to go. The deep bowl is filled with every cut of beef you can imagine, from the flank to the tendon and even tripe. Vietnamese beef meatballs are also added to the dish and the medley of meats creates a melange of textures and flavours that make every bite enticing. For dinner, Saigon Kitchen opens its famed Steamboat Buffet, where you can pick and choose an unlimited amount of vegetables, wontons, seafood and meats to add to the large boiling pot of broth on your table, making Saigon Kitchen the go-to place for large groups seeking a sensational feast.
If you’re in a time crunch and need a quick fix, Nam Nam in Takapuna is one of the top lunch spots on the North Shore. The beef and chicken phởs are undeniably delicious, but it’s the vegan mushroom and tofu phở that has the locals hooked. The mushroom lends the broth a deep yet pure flavour, similar to mushroom dashi, and pairs perfectly with the vegan tofu summer rolls. Nam Nam is also popular for its bánh mì, and while the tofu iteration is tasty, the lemongrass pork sausage variation is the hero. The juicy, marinated pork is enriched with house-made mayo and pâté which goes down a treat when followed by sips of the palate-cleansing broth from the phở. Nam Nam also offers catering, which we can confirm is equally as delightful.
A favourite amongst city-dwellers, Hello Mister is a local take on Vietnamese with a particular focus on fresh, fast and insanely tasty grab-and-go fare, and the concise menu has been crafted with this in mind. Here, you’ll find only the classics: bánh mì, rice paper rolls, phở, bún, and a slightly more indulgent deep-fried spring roll iteration. The perfect spot for a light weekday lunch, Hello Mister is firmly on our radar.
It still feels like such a delight every time we have our talons tendered to with the tender love and care they deserve. To nail such an important appointment, look no further than our definitive guide — a directory of all the nail salons we’ve visited and adored.
With walk-in locations in Newmarket, Ponsonby, Albany, and Commercial Bay, The Art of Nails is the place to go when you want a quick, slick manicure or pedicure in a clean and comfortable environment. Its team is also open to a range of creative nail art ideas if you want to experiment with the playful half-moon manicure, or the French tip revival.
Ponsonby Road’s INCO Studio is the kind of beauty haven that, when it arrived, was something our city had been craving for some time. A hybrid of all of our favourite services (hair, nails, brows and make-up), it’s the truly talented nail artists that keep us coming back time and time again. INCO is one of the few places in the City to offer gel extensions, a healthier alternatively to classic acrylics, and should you be seeking some more detailed nail art, the team always exceeds expectations.
Contemporary beauty and wellness destination, Spring Spa, brings a little bit of Bali to Auckland with its two lush locations. When it comes to the nail menu, Spring is at the forefront of new polish treatments and is known for its supreme manicures.
Tabitha van der Westhuizen is an expert when it comes to helping natural nails reach their full potential. While divine extensions (and thankfully for the health of our nails, gel extensions) are her bread and butter, she’s swiftly garnered a reputation among those in the know for the care and consideration she gives to those looking to grow what they’ve already got. As Dune Nails is a one-woman show, and a popular one at that, putting your name on the waitlist for an appointment is essential, but we promise it is worth the wait.
Since it was established in 2002, East Day Spa has become the premier spa destination when only premium pampering will do. Located in the SkyCity Grand Hotel, the beauty and nail salon is a chic retreat in the city, with unparalleled manicures and pedicures.
This Ponsonby Road address has gained its cult-following for one reason — it’s behind some of the best nails in the business. Whether your polish of persuasion is a Rhode-inspired glaze, or you’re seeking a hue that’s more subdued, The Nail Bar is always willing to rise to the challenge and executes the brief to perfection.
For those looking to forgo all trends, a simple shellac service may be all that you need. The Beauty Bar is one such provider that often comes to our rescue, offering a refined service menu that is suited to beginner manicure mavens as much as it is those who need a touch-up on a whim.
If a one-stop shop is the kind of manicure you’re seeking, without compromising on the quality or service, Endota’s (formally Forme Spa) beloved nail salons are likely to pique your interests. Holistic wellbeing is at the core of every treatment — and it’s an approach that we fully endorse. The express polish services are perfect for busy people, leaving your talons feeling soft and sumptuous, finished with a simple lacquer.
This CBD salon caters to all things extra and opulent. Offering a dazzling manicure that is every bit intricate and detailed as it is nourishing for the nail beds, the beloved artists have a 10-year history in the heart of the city. So if longevity is anything to go by, you can be assured you are in for excellence.
If it’s an impeccable, meticulous manicure you’re after, there’s only one place for it. The Nail Story in Victoria Park Market specialise in electric file manicures, and the result is unlike anything we’ve experienced. Here, an entirely personal approach is taken as the experienced team transforms even the most neglected talons with ease, buffing, polishing, painting and finessing to perfection – a timely process that feels like an essential act of self care. The team here specialise in electric file manicures, a process that leaves nails beautifully polished, impeccably trimmed and impossibly smooth.
For Grey Lynn locals, Society is simply the only beauty haven to look to. With an accomplished team revered city-wide for their facials and spray tans, as well as their exceptional classic manicures, Society is somewhat of a one stop beauty shop promising excellence on all fronts. Opt for a sophisticated single-tone shellac, or mix it up in time for the festive season with a chic, ultra fine French.
With a reverence for the past and an eye towards the future, AKI Design has transformed a Victorian-era home in Melbourne’s South Yarra into a residence of unrivalled sophistication. Like a dance between light and dark, the designers have seamlessly blended elements of tradition and modernity throughout every space, resulting in a residence that feels simultaneously timeless and utterly of the moment. Fawkner House has become a testament to the art of balance, where, alongside all the trappings that having a rich heritage brings, this home is also the epitome of contemporary living — a captivating combination indeed.
Maintaining this history was essential for the owner — AKI Design Founder and Director, Charis James — who initially acquired the address to unearth its hidden potential. Here, she set out to create a Parisian-inspired abode while ensuring it remained deeply connected to its architectural roots and leafy, suburban surrounds.
Restraint and refinement drove the directive for the team at AKI, who worked as a collective to transform the home’s excellent bones into something that felt modern and approachable, where contemporary elements (like curvaceous lines, eye-catching furniture and a monochromatic palette) only served to enhance the historic features (like repeated archways, classic fireplaces and plaster detailing). At the heart of the home lies the kitchen, anchored by a commanding island in undulating Concordia marble, around which one can imagine the residents gravitating at the end of a long day. And while in any other space, marble of this particular finish (and this particular scale) could be overwhelming, here, it is suited perfectly and echoed in subtle ways throughout the rest of the home (the fireplace and mantle in the master suite, for instance).
Built upon a foundation of warm neutrality, the material palette chosen by AKI Design is a masterclass in contemporary luxury where plaster meets monochromatic tones of white, grey, brown and black, light timber flooring and natural stone. That said, there is a cool edge delivered by the details — a burnished bronze tap here, some steel framing there, or a bold, vibrant artwork that takes up an entire wall. As it should in a residence of this stature, natural light takes centre stage, effortlessly weaving its way through elongated and lofty openings, uplifting the atmospheric, deep-toned interior spaces with a luminous energy. At Fawkner House, the interplay between light and texture is brilliant. The walls become a canvas, artfully capturing and interacting with the day’s changing sunlight, the custom plaster finishes gracefully enhancing the natural but striking colour palette and infusing the home with a sense of movement and dynamism.
The elegant, arched motif, seen in doorways, windows and mirrors and hinted at in various furnishings, speaks to a balance that has been struck between privacy and openness, separation and unity. Internal glass doors enhance this dichotomy, allowing visual connections to flourish while still preserving a sense of seclusion, which gives this home an appealing depth and delineates the spaces beautifully. Every element of the Fawkner House has been considered and curated meticulously to create a home that, despite its outward grandeur, striking finishes and exceptional artwork and furniture, feels inherently warm and inviting. A contemporary, suburban escape in every sense.
Words Margie Riddiford | PHOTOS Elliot Macdonald | 18 Oct 2023
“I’ve always enjoyed cooking for other people, seeing the smiles on their faces is the biggest drive for me,” says Eunsun Jung, co-owner of Small Mercies, a cute new spot that has just opened in Mount Eden. “It’s the reason I do what I do.” Jung, a chef, moved to Auckland seven years ago from Korea to start her career in the culinary arts. Her business partner, Mikey Rush came from the UK around the same time and has also been working in local hospitality ever since. Seeing space for a Korean-style doughnut shop in Auckland, the duo joined forces to create Small Mercies as the perfect drop-in for a sweet treat and a coffee.
Left: @foodtunes
Here, the hero is the Kkwabaegi, a traditional Korean twisted doughnut that Jung tells me brings back fond memories of home. Typically made with cinnamon sugar, what Jung has done at Small Mercies is to reimagine the potential of the simple Kkwabaegi by experimenting with a variety of delicious toppings. Alongside the OG Kkwabaegi, hungry punters can enjoy a selection of ever-rotating toppings from Chocolate Orange to Tiramisu to Salted Caramel and more. The toppings, Jung tells me, will pull on a variety of nostalgic flavours from the owners’ childhoods. “My favourites are the Brown Cheese and the Tiramisu,” Jung reveals, “they’re not too sweet, just super moreish.”
Small Mercies’ cabinet also has rows of Chapssal (which are glutinous rice doughnut balls) and Yakgwa (deliciously sweet, syrup-soaked biscuits), all best when enjoyed with a cup of perfectly-brewed Red Rabbit Coffee or matcha, or a refreshing cup of housemade lemonade.
From the outside, Small Mercies is unmissable, its whimsical front window covered in bright decals. This idea continues inside, where bold block colours define the space, from the sunshine yellow of the window seat to the pops of purple, pink, blue and orange on the walls. “We were very much inspired by cafe culture in Korea, where they make their spaces feel unique and interesting” Jung explains. “We wanted it to feel like walking into our childhoods, and it needed to be fun to work in too.”
Helping the duo bring their concept to life was Carly Black of Mille Interiors, alongside Build It Construction, who turned their fun ideas into the welcoming drop-in that Small Mercies is today. “We wanted our little shop to be a place where people can connect and share a moment of joy,” Jung says, “to feel open and welcoming and to make people’s days a little brighter.”
@7.30_y
As well as being a great new place to pick up a tasty snack, or to catch up with friends, Small Mercies is introducing a new delicacy into the culinary vocabulary of anyone who didn’t grow up in Korea. As Jung tells me, “We’ve already had customers from all over the world come into our shop and say, ‘we have something similar where I’m from!'” Bringing people together over delicious food and great coffee, Small Mercies should be firmly on your radar.
As the creative duo behind My Exhibition, a brand that recontextualises curated design pieces, many of which are sourced from markets and boutiques abroad, Sara Bruce and Sophie Anderson are not only seasoned travellers but each have unique perspectives on the cities they frequent. Paris is one such place, where Bruce and Anderson often visit to source, and to spend a day or two at some of their favourite restaurants, cafés, galleries, museums and under-the-radar spots. Here, the pair deliver some insight into how they might spend an early June day in the City of Light, from unmissable experiences to living like the locals do, to cultural wonders, and a few luxurious stops along the way.
From left: Sara Bruce & Sophie Anderson
“We’ve come to Paris for inspiration, some flea market fossicking and as big a dose as possible of inimitable Parisian style. It’s early June, sunny, hot and Paris is lush, as elegant as ever and buzzing. Follow us as we amble around the City of Light, Rive Gauche or Rive Droite, we’ve got you covered.”
A Day With
Sara Bruce
MORNING
I wake up in the Hôtel des Académies et des Arts. Small and not ‘comfortable’ enough to entice a certain kind of mature American traveller, my room features an easel and hand-sketched line drawings on the ceiling; not a kettle in sight.
The hotel is set down a side street in Montparnasse, opposite the longstanding Académie de la Grande Chaumière (a sculpture school).
I embark on a pre-breakfast stroll through the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg, which I have found to be a necessary jetlag antidote. Early morning is a delightful time to see the wild-planted gardens, fountains and palace. There’s no one around and it’s glorious.
Afterwards, croissants and bad coffee (I’m in France, after all) are best taken back at the hotel.
Left to right: Hôtel des Académies et des Arts, Jardin du Luxembourg & Fondation Giacometti
Only a short walk south is where I get my first hit of culture, at the Fondation Cartier Pour L’Arte Contemporain. Currently in between installations, it isn’t open, so I make do with peeking through the gate. My architecturally-savvy friend (Sophie) admires the steel, glass and now mature greenery both inside and out of the Jean Nouvel-designed structure.
Just down the road and without a queue or barely a sign, is the Fondation Giacometti. The small but perfectly formed ‘maison musée’ includes a reconstruction of the sculptor’s original studio. The Giacometti figures reside in a high-ceilinged rear gallery. This is not for those bang-for-buck museum-goers who want to tick off as many masterpieces as humanly possible (for that, head to the Musée d’Orsay). But it is a spectacular experience. Mingling with these plastered, wiry creatures in the flesh with no one else around is truly a thrill.
AFTERNOON
I complete the morning’s sculpture expedition at the Musée Bourdelle. This is my new favourite house museum in the whole of Paris. Despite not being familiar with Bourdelle at all, I’m calling him the new Rodin. The place is filled with incredible busts and large-scale works. There’s a cafe upstairs with a portico terrace overlooking the walled greenery. I eat a delicious simple salad on the loggia. Perfection.
Even the most avid art lover needs respite and time for reflection and that means a little browsing at the Left Bank’s iconic department store Le Bon Marché. Elegant French women glide around, dogs in tow.
Across the road, Le Grande Épicerie is the ticket to picnicking paradise. I agonise over the butter selection, and choose a smoked, salted version packaged as carefully as a precious gift. A few cheeses, maybe a pâté, some berries and exotic vegetables later and I’m well-provisioned for dinner later.
Left to right: Musée Bourdelle, Officine Creative, Le Grande Épicerie & Le Bon Marché
On the way to my next stop, I take a little detour to the Officine Creative at 20 Rue des Canettes in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It’s a small shop showcasing mono-brand Italian handmade shoes and bags. The leather is as soft as that Bon Marché butter and it’s all logo-free. Nearby is the Dries Van Noten Paris flagship, a must-visit.
My final sculpture hit of the day is another Montparnasse atelier musée, this one showcasing works by Ossip Zadkine. It also boasts a verdant garden, in which a solo cellist is performing. This musical serendipity accompanies my wanders around Zadkine’s cubist busts and drawings. I feel distinctly cultured and far, far away from the tourist masses.
EARLY EVENING
It’s harder than it sounds to find the perfect spot for an aperitif. The big names trading on the Montparnasse of old like Le Dôme, La Rotonde, La Coupole and Le Sélect all feel a bit too Tripadvisor for what I’m looking for. Instead, I head to the luxe bar at the only palace hotel on the Left Bank; Hotel Lutetia, a smartly-renovated establishment with a high marble quota and excellent Camparis.
Left to right: Hotel Lutetia, picnic at the Hôtel des Académie & Grom Gelato
LE SOIR
If you’ve got the right ingredients, there is something fun about collating a delicious picnic for early dinner, and the breakfast room at the Hôtel des Académie offers the perfect setting for just that. Champagne from Nicolas nearby, baguette from the boulangerie and a series of delicious what-nots from Le Bon Marché, this is my dream. (Apologies serious foodies and lovers of 12-course degustations.)
Finally, I head down to the Rue de Seine for a post-dinner ice cream at Grom Gelato, to make the most of the late Parisian light.
A Day With
Sophie Anderson
MORNING
I wake up in a garrett room in the eaves at the Hôtel Pulitzer on the Rue de Faubourg, Montematre. Sliding open the bathroom door reveals a generous sized bathroom which does much to up the luxury factor of the tiny room.
Immediately, I make for the Marais. First up, un café at Le Petite Place at 2 Place de Thorigny. This delightfully modernised Parisian style café with perfectly-hued, mix-and-match crockery always delivers. (Despite not being on Sara’s carefully-researched and cross-checked list, the coffee here is excellent.)
Left to right: Hôtel Pulitzer, Le Petite Place & Picasso Museum
Just around the corner is my next stop, the Picasso Museum, where I immerse myself in the current exhibition marking 50 years since the artist’s death. Brought to life under Sir Paul Smith’s artistic direction ‘Picasso Celebration: The Collection in a New Light’ at Musée Picasso is sublime. Colour as emotion, reflection, inspiration… All enveloped by the sumptuous and exquisitely-restored Hôtel Salé in which the museum is housed. Top tip — be ready to go at 9:30am to get ahead of the crowds.
AFTERNOON
Onwards to the up-market 16th. I catch the Metro across town to La Rotonde de la Muette, which has been expertly re-imagined and updated in classic Parisian café style by New York designers Roman and Williams. There, I sit on the terrace surrounded by gorgeous French families with children in polos, folded socks and combed hair. Standard fare in a chi chi location.
Nearby and not to be missed (even if it’s just an Uber drive-by) is the Frank Gehry-designed Fondation Louis Vuitton. The current Basquiat x Warhol exhibition is an added bonus.
Left to right: Frank Gehry-designed Fondation Louis Vuitton, La Rotonde de la Muette & Musée YSL
Then, I jump back on the metro to the divine Musée YSL. On entry I am funnelled into the original reception area. The whole room, including carpet, walls, ceiling and chandelier, is exactly as it was when the maestro himself presided over the brand. Faintly musty, this room is dedicated to a history of YSL. Currently on display is ‘YSL — shapes and forms, Decors & Works by Claudia Wieser’, which I discover is a wonderfully-evocative exhibition. For me, however, the pièce de résistance is YSL’s ‘studio’, lying in the heart of the atelier. This was where Saint Laurent designed and then evaluated garments on models. Full of favourite objets, fabric swathes and swatches, coloured pencils, sketch pads and curios, the mood is completed by a pair of Yves Saint Laurent’s glasses casually discarded on his desk. It truly feels as though the couturier has just left.
EARLY EVENING
As the late-afternoon light turns to dusk I head straight to the bar Les Ambassadeurs at Hôtel De Crillon and order Champagne. Joined by Sara, we’re early drinkers in Paris so we sit ourselves in the Jardin D’Hivers. Purple is the hue here, where the orchids match the marble and the giant amethyst pieces. Perfect service and people-watching.
Left to right: Château Voltaire, Aux Crus de Bourgogne & Hôtel De Crillon
LE SOIR
Afterwards, we’re booked at Aux Crus de Bourgogne for early dinner. An old-school, vintage-chic institution (since 1932) with a waiter in a white suit and a refined beef bourguignon. Located just around the corner from the main tourist drag, this iconic spot still feels charming. The snails are on the salty side but the Champagne is perfectly chilled.
Finally, we toss up between two of our favourite options for a nearby, after-dinner drink. Either at the bar at Château Voltaire (from Zadig & Voltaire’s founders), or at the Roof at Madame Rêve, where views and foliage abound. We land on the latter and end our day on a distinctly high note.
Taking inspiration from the bustling, fast-paced cities and countries of Southeast Asia, Jungle 8 is the newest venture from the team behind Ponsonby’s ever-popular Lucky 8 and Mount Eden-based Mr Hao. Paul Wong, Julian Diprose, and Lucas Boucly have set out to create an entirely new offering in Lucky 8 — shaking up the downtown dining scene with not only a modern take on authentic Vietnamese street food but a space that brings the ‘organised madness and explosive energy’ of Southeast Asia to life.
First impressions are everything, and the newly transformed space within Elliot Stables packs a punch. Upon entry, patrons (or party-goers, depending on when you visit) are transported directly to the streets of the southeast. Carefully crafted to emulate the feeling of stepping out of an airport, into the vibrant atmosphere of a frenetic Asian metropolis, Jungle 8 is an immersive, neon-lit, plant-filled oasis.
A series of roof-mounted LED screens envelop the space, playing a loop of jungle-inspired scenes, while a stalking tiger illuminates the long, greenery-dressed bar. Cosy, concave booths line the rustic, exposed brick walls which are adorned with a host of jungle creatures, while tall tables fill the central space for those looking to truly get in on the action.
In keeping with the theme of 8 (the number associated in Chinese culture with generating wealth — and that it will) most dishes and drinks are priced at a modest $8.88, meaning tasting everything on the concise and considered menu is entirely plausible.
Of course, the classics take centre stage — from aromatic wagyu pho, to Vietnamese mainstay — pork Banh Mi, to crisp spring rolls brimming with soft crab and spiced pork (some of the best we’ve tasted); served alongside modern takes such as crispy, subtly spiced eggplant, hot and sour salmon and a show stopping young coconut and prawn salad, all accompanied by cocktails that conjure heady southeast streets. The bar’s signature libation, aptly named ‘Welcome to the Jungle’, is a perfect mix of guava nectar, triple sec, spiced rum, tart lime and Tabasco, topped with crisp chilli guava chips, while its espresso martini iteration — made with traditional Vietnamese coffee and condensed milk — is the perfect post-dinner pick-me-up.
A true feast for the senses, boasting cheap and cheerful fare in a setting sure to delight, Jungle 8 is set to be the new go-to destination for casual eats and good times. Secure your spot now to get in on the action.
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