For the last two years, Cam Blanchard has been wowing Auckland’s discerning foodie crowd with his delicious burger pop-ups around the city. The American-born former mechanic built his now cult-followed Baby G Burger on nothing more than the love for burgers he shared with his partner, Greta (the ‘G’ in Baby G, by the way), quickly garnering a following after sharing and selling his homemade creations on Instagram in 2020. Now, Baby G Burger is widely credited as serving some of the best burgers in Auckland, courtesy of Blanchard’s signature, American-style smash patties (boasting unbelievably crispy edges and a thick, flavoursome centre), served between pillowy soft buns, with fuss-free fillings — usually a combination of American cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, mayo and/or hot sauce. So delicious are these burgers that Baby G’s pop-ups have been known to sell out within hours, thanks to hoards of people keen to get their hands on one of its satiating bites before they were gone again.
But now, hungry Aucklanders need not worry about only having a short amount of time to get their burger fix, as Blanchard gets ready to open Baby G’s first official burger joint in Avondale at the end of this week.
Nestled in the Avondale shops, the new Baby G spot is lo-fi and easygoing, reminiscent of the kind of thing you might find in the States, without being cartoonish about it. Able to seat 15 people, with comfortable tables or high stools by the windows, the space was designed and almost entirely installed by Blanchard himself and is the perfect, casual setting in which to enjoy Baby G’s offering. “I took some inspiration from old American fast food places and restaurants I grew up going to,” Blanchard tells me, “like little hometown burger and hotdog stands and old McDonalds that hadn’t been updated yet.”
On the menu, Blanchard has kept things simple and delicious, offering up a concise edit of Baby G hits. The iconic Oklahoma Dreaming burger is, of course, the hero (boasting double smash patties with all the fillings: American cheese, mustard, mayo, hot sauce, maple syrup, pickles and onions) alongside a classic cheeseburger, fries and chicken tenders. There is also a mushroom burger option for vegetarians. As Blanchard settles into the new spot this menu is bound to change and expand so keep an eye out for more deliciousness to come.
So, if you’ve been craving your Baby G fix, and have been wondering where Blanchard’s pop-ups have gone, you’ll be able to treat yourself to a delicious burger come Sunday (the 8th of October) when Baby G officially opens its doors.
London-based New Zealand jewellery designer Jessica McCormack has built her now-global reputation on reimagining fine diamonds for the modern woman. Her approach is utterly unique and with every new collection comes a raft of unexpected inspirations and pieces that marry exquisite stones with unparalleled craftsmanship and jaw-dropping design. McCormack’s newest collection, Carmela, is certainly no exception and is now available exclusively at Simon James.
Carmela was born from McCormack’s love for the sensuality of Italian food culture and by extension, the attitude of female icons of classic mafia movies and television (think of the infamous Carmela Soprano) who served as her new-season muses. “I wanted to imagine these women as the main characters this time,” McCormack says. “Carmela is named for Tony Soprano’s wife but really, she’s a combination of all the mafia movie greats.”
As such, the new collection takes its forms from iconic Italian pastas, boasting art-deco-inspired, step-cut diamonds set in undulating waves and curves, as though they were being twirled around a fork and lifted to a lipstick-covered mouth. Rendered exclusively in gold and diamonds, the pieces that comprise the Carmela range move from the simple, like the Spaghetti Hoop rings, reminiscent of a single, silky strand of spaghetti wrapped around a finger, to the truly spectacular, like the Spaghetti necklace, a striking collar set with 144 carre-cut diamonds, each one trimmed to fit the lines of the piece perfectly so that it flows like liquid around the neck.
Reflecting the dynamic strength of the women who served as her inspiration, McCormack explains that she wanted to imbue as much movement as she could into each of her Carmela pieces. “The Spiral earrings aren’t just flat swirls set with diamonds,” she tells us, “they have varying depths so that from side on there’s more interest… plus, they’re hinged at multiple points so they dance, rather than tremble, with the wearer’s movement.”
Left to Right: Al Dente Diamond Ring, Spaghetti Hoop Earrings In Gold & Spaghetti Hoop Bands
This meticulous attention to detail and careful consideration has long been a signature of Jessica McCormack’s creations and is part of what has made hers one of the most sought-after jewellery brands in the world. Other highlights from the Carmela collection include the unravelling Tagliatelle earrings, rendered in ribbons of diamonds that are broken by flashes of gold, the awe-inspiring Al Dente ring, designed as a single, diamond-set line that unfurls on the hand, the SpaghettiO earrings in mismatched, six-hoop swirls that marry blackened gold with brilliant-cut diamonds or white gold with carre-cut stones and the simple but impactful Spaghetti Hoop earrings, in gold, carre-cut diamonds or brilliant, pave-set diamonds.
Not only is Carmela a triumph of design but it proves, once again, why McCormack remains at the top of her game. Now available to shop exclusively at Simon James’ Herne Bay and Newmarket boutiques, or online here, if you’re thinking about what to buy that special someone for Christmas, this could be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Spring is here. And even though some of the weather we’ve been having lately might suggest otherwise, this is the season of abundance, new beginnings and optimism for the future, all things that are being thoroughly celebrated this month at Azabu Mission Bay. There, in collaboration with Roku Gin, the beachfront eatery is hosting a series of events, activations, specials and more in honour of the season, and it’s the perfect excuse to escape the bustle of the city. Roku presents Hanami at Azabu is a modern expression of the traditional Japanese festival that is held annually to welcome the arrival of spring — a time to be revered, savoured and above all, enjoyed.
Left: Shiso Negroni & Rosa Dulce. Right: Coconut Ceviche
Helping us do just that (and getting us thoroughly in the spirit of the season) Azabu Mission Bay and Roku Gin have come up with an unmissable, exclusive experience that will offer a feast for all the senses. In a series aptly called ‘Sip and Paint’, guests will be invited to spend a delightful Thursday evening or Sunday lunch in Azabu Mission Bay’s iconic Stonehouse, where they can enjoy a special art class, led by renowned artist Ema Frost.
Having travelled extensively through Japan to hone her artistic technique, Frost will take guests on an educational and creative journey, where, over the course of a fascinating class they will learn to work with the opaque watercolour gouache, as they paint their own renditions of a Sakura that they can then take home. Of course, the whole experience will be accompanied by a raft of bespoke Roku Gin cocktails and a selection of delectable tasting plates from Azabu’s spring menu.
Yakiniku Sirloin
As part of the wider Hanami celebration, Roku Gin has curated a special cocktail list for Azabu Mission Bay, comprising refreshing, spring-worthy tipples, including the Roku & Sonic, with fresh ginger, the Rosa Dulce with melon liquor and grapefruit, the Shiso Negroni and the Murasaki with beetroot, lemon, black pepper and blood orange. For those unfamiliar with Roku Gin, it is a meticulously crafted Japanese artisan gin, distilled from six exquisite botanicals (the sakura flower, sakura leaf, yuzu peel, sencha tea, gyokuro tea and sansho pepper) that are cultivated over four seasons via the Japanese concept of ‘Shun’, which is the tradition of enjoying each ingredient at its best by only harvesting at its peak of flavour. Running until the end of November, this menu is certainly worth a visit alone, although is made even better when paired with the suggested dishes from Azabu’s mouthwatering new menu.
Azabu Mission Bay’s ‘Sip and Paint’ experience runs on Thursday evenings from 6:30pm and Sunday lunchtimes from 1pm, through to the middle of November. Tickets are $135 per person and include three Roku Gin cocktails, four Azabu tasting plates and the painting class led by Ema Frost, with all materials included. Offering a unique way to catch up with friends, or just the promise of something different and interesting, ‘Sip and Paint’ is set to be an unmissable series, so secure your tickets now.
Denizen is giving one lucky reader 4 tickets to ‘Sip and Paint’ on Thursday the 16th of November. Enter via our form below.
There’s plenty for culture cultures to get excited about this month. Lots of live music, theatre, comedy and more, these are the cultural events you simply must buy tickets to in October.
Pendulum
Pendulum – Spark Arena
Pendulum’s highly anticipated return to New Zealand promises to be a spectacle that will captivate fans this October. With an impressive track record that includes three Platinum albums, the Australian electronic band, led by the dynamic Rob Swire, Gareth McGrillien, Peredur ap Gwynedd, and KJ Sawka, has earned its place among the giants of the genre. And, having recently unveiled their latest track, ‘Halo,’ featuring Matt Tuck of Bullet For My Valentine, anticipation is soaring. Renowned for their apocalypse-like sound, Pendulum’s live performances have consistently sold out arenas and festivals worldwide. This unmissable event at Spark Arena promises an unforgettable night of sonic mayhem and innovation, showcasing why Pendulum remains a cornerstone of electronic music. Taking place tonight (Friday the 6th of October) secure your tickets now.
Pop-Up Globe’s Twelfth Night
Pop-Up Globe’s Twelfth Night – Q Theatre
The Pop-up Globe Shakespeare Company is making its triumphant return to Auckland’s Q Theatre, rekindling the magic that initially enthralled audiences in 2016. From the 17th of October, the iconic Pop-up Globe stage will once again set the scene (although this time sheltered beneath a roof) ensuring an unforgettable performance of the bard’s beloved comedy, Twelfth Night. This uproarious tale of shipwrecked twins embroiled in a web of mistaken identity promises raucous laughter, audience engagement, live music and an ensemble of unparalleled actors. On from the 17th until the 22nd of October only, this raucous performance is here for a good time, not a long one, so you don’t want to miss out. Tickets can be found here.
How To Throw a Chinese Funeral – Basement theatre
Set against the backdrop of Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Auckland, this multi-generational tale weaves the poignant and uproarious narrative of Lily and Anna, who are forced to navigate the intricate customs of a Taoist funeral when their grandmother passes away, a tradition unfamiliar to them. As past and present collide, How To Throw a Chinese Funeral explores the profound question: when history is forgotten, does it jeopardise our future? A heart-wrenching and humorous exploration of cultural heritage and family bonds, this production is on now until the 14th of October and promises to be a riveting journey of self-discovery and reconnection. Tickets can be found here.
Chet Faker
Chet Faker- Powerstation
Multi-talented Australian artist, Chet Faker, is set to grace the stage of Auckland’s Powerstation on the 19th of October for a show you really don’t want to miss. With a career spanning over a decade, Chet Faker’s genre-defying sound and chart-topping hits have garnered him a global fan base. From his breakout cover of ‘No Diggity’ to the platinum-selling debut album Built On Glass, Faker’s musical prowess has left an indelible mark. His latest album, Hotel Surrender, has been hailed as a triumphant return, and his live performances are renowned for their exceptional quality. Don’t miss the chance to witness Chet Faker’s captivating artistry live. Tickets can be found here.
Arawhata – Q Theatre
Award-winning show, Arawhata, takes the stage at Auckland’s Q Theatre in a vibrant celebration of diversity. Recently honoured at the 2023 NZ Fringe Festival, this production explores the lives of queer, indigenous people of colour through themes of race, gender, and sexuality. Expect a dazzling fusion of dance, live music, cultural performances and the underground ballroom culture that originated in Harlem in the 1970s. Arawhata offers an intimate glimpse into the performers’ journeys, inviting you to connect with their experiences in a cutting-edge, energetic and relevant show that is a must-see tribute to resilience and diversity. Tickets can be found here.
Hayley Sproull: Ailments – Q Theatre
In her latest comedy hour, Ailments, Hayley Sproull offers a riotous exploration of the quirks and quibbles that plague her life. From a dead kidney to a uterus shaped like the iconic bunny from ‘Donnie Darko,’ Sproull’s body seems to have a knack for disappointment, albeit of the mostly minor variety. With a blend of music and comedy, she takes audiences on a hilarious journey through her body’s eccentricities, allowing her magnetic stage presence and comedic prowess to shine through. On from the 10th until the 14th of October, his side-splitting comedy will leave you in stitches. Tickets can be found here.
Leisure
Leisure – Powerstation
The trajectory of this musically gifted from New Zealand’s west coast to a band that is globally acclaimed band is nothing short of extraordinary. With three top-20 albums in New Zealand, over 350 million streams, and sold-out shows across continents, they’ve proven that taking the scenic route in the fast-paced music industry can lead to lasting success. Their upcoming album, Leisurevision, promises to be a vibrant exploration of the human experience, covered in the soothing hues of green — a symbol of growth, renewal, and tranquillity. Don’t miss your chance to experience Leisure live in this unforgettable experience on Friday the 13th of October at Powerstation, and witness their unique musical paradigm in action. Tickets can be found here.
The Chicks
The Chicks – Spark Arena
Prepare yourself for a musical extravaganza as the global superstars, The Chicks, make their triumphant return to New Zealand at the iconic Spark Arena on Saturday the 28th of October. After a sold-out 2017 tour, the captivating trio is back with their unmistakable blend of country and pop, and with special guest Elle King joining them, this promises to be an unforgettable night for music lovers. The Chicks’ extensive career, marked by thirteen Grammy Awards, speaks volumes about their talent and influence. Their groundbreaking 2020 album, Gaslighter, added a new dimension to their recognisable sound, making this concert a must-see event. Tickets can be found here.
The latest season came to a grand conclusion at Paris Fashion Week SS24, as a raft of renowned luxury brands took to the runways to showcase their collections. From Balenciaga’s predictably left-field affair to Victoria Beckham’s much-talked-about event, Loewe’s triumph of design, Louis Vuitton’s showstopping spectacle and more, here we round up some of our favourite looks and new-season inspirations from the stunning runways of Paris Fashion Week SS24.
In the culinary world, there are artists, and then there are maestros. Callum Liddicoat, the Executive Pastry Chef at Park Hyatt Auckland, undeniably belongs to the latter category. In conversation with Tessa Patrick, Liddicoat shares his culinary philosophy, his favourite dining spots and the joy he finds in his job.
Callum Liddicoat’s journey to becoming a pastry master is a tale of passion, dedication and a thirst for continuous learning — which speaks to the tenacious culinary spirit he has brought to Park Hyatt’s exceptional dining offering, (over which Liddicoat presides as Executive Pastry Chef).
With more than 24 years of experience, Liddicoat’s career began in his native Gold Coast before embarking on a calling that took him around the world, from London to Fiji, facing new challenges and embracing new learnings with every destination. (I’m even told that once, he made 30,000 scones over five days during his tenure at Lords Cricket Grounds.)
The Splice
Under Liddicoat’s meticulous eye, Park Hyatt has become renowned for its exquisite slant on the sweeter side of life — from exquisite cream eggs (hugely popular at Easter time) to meticulously-crafted gingerbread houses, which sell out every Christmas. Modern, simple and natural are pillars of his culinary philosophy, brought to life in each delightful creation across the venue’s flagship destinations; Onemata, The Pantry and The Living Room — the last of which has seen the pastry chef’s approach to afternoon tea captivate Auckland’s most discerning diners. “I believe the secret to an irresistible and sublime-tasting dessert is balance,” he divulges. “And teaching your palate to know when to add layers of textures and flavours and when to hold back. Less is more sometimes, but always push the boundaries.”
“The best thing about my career is I’m still learning, still pushing and still believing I have more to give.”
Since taking up somewhat of a mentor position at Park Hyatt, overseeing other up-and-coming chefs, Liddicoat views his role as a privilege. In this position, he can lead and guide others in all stages of their culinary careers and have the creative freedom to make pastry magic. “I’m hugely passionate about giving back to the industry that has given me so much and allowed me to express myself through the art of food while travelling the globe,” he tells me.
Leading the Park Hyatt pastry team through numerous Covid-related challenges has tested Callum’s mettle. Nevertheless, his commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries have earned him numerous accolades, and his tenacity, combined with his team’s unwavering support, continues to take Park Hyatt’s pastry offerings to bold new heights.
Outside of the hotel, Liddicoat’s approach to food is far less intricate. Like most chefs, food is more straightforward at home, but he still stresses the importance of nourishing himself with tasty ingredients. And when dining outside the precinct, you’ll find him at Viaduct Harbour’s Hello Beasty, Ponsonby Road stalwart Prego, or Parade, for a seriously indulgent burger.
Carrot Cake
But life isn’t always sweet, and sometimes, as he tells me, you get sick of the cakes after too many versions of trial and error. Liddicoat explains that due to travelling the world, working long hours in kitchens, and having to reinvent the wheel many times, mental health and anxiety are prevalent among many pastry chefs; something with which he too has had to grapple with in his career. But there is also, he counters, such joy to be found working in this space, from being purely creative and hands-on to the friends and connections you make. Anyone who has worked in hospitality will testify to the latter.
“The best thing about my career is I’m still learning, still pushing and still believing I have more to give,” he confesses. “I wouldn’t say I’m an expert in one area of pastry, but I have built my career around learning and developing skills in all areas of the pastry kitchen. Give me a challenge and the tools to run a multi-outlet hotel, and that’s when I’m in my element.” And anyone who’s sampled his goods will attest to his brilliance. In Liddicoat’s case, the proof really is in the pudding.
While a saucy scowl might have a place on the runways of couture week, a dour resting face won’t age well, leaving you with stubborn frown lines and dull texture. But never fear. In the name of embracing natural beauty, we’ve found an effective way to correct and improve facial posture, using three simple steps.
Sculpting Facial Treatments
In-clinic facial treatments with pioneers in the field are going to give you those immediate, lasting results. One of our favourites is Kate Michelmore’s Buccal Massage and Anti-Gravity Facial at Skinography, where the rigorous face massages are designed to correct sagging facial posture and the results are quite literally jaw-dropping.
At Home Gua Sha Rituals
Employing an at-home gua sha regime will extend the life of your in-clinic treatments, where the daily ritual encourages skin dexterity and constant lymphatic drainage to relax your muscles, reset your posture and bring life back to your face.
It’s easier said than done, but inflammatory foods like sugar, dairy and gluten, as well as alcohol, can all lead to a puffier complexion. This can be remedied by treatments, but where longevity is concerned, consider pulling back on your consumption of these trigger foods.
Give Yourself a Cryotherapy Facial
There’s nothing like waking up your face with an icy-cold greeting. Use tools like the ones listed below, straight from the freezer, to reduce swelling and inflammation, particularly around the eyes. This will brighten tired skin, eliminate any dreaded puffiness and leave you feeling fresh and ready for the day.
Denizen Recommends
Angela Caglia Gold Cryo Facial Set from Net-A-Porter
The weather might be a mixed bag at the moment but every day in October is one day closer to summer, and that’s something that we think is worth celebrating. What is also worth celebrating is the sheer number of delicious foodie events and goings-on taking place over the next month. From birthday specials to outstanding new menus to various high teas, degustations, whisky events and more, this is Denizen’s comprehensive October Dining Guide — where to eat, drink and be merry this month.
Celebrate all things craft beer at Commercial Bay’s one-day-only festival in Harbour Eats this October. On Saturday the 7th of October from 12pm until 6pm, Harbour Eats will become alive of activity thanks to Brewfest, where live music, German food and snacks from a range of Harbour Eats vendors and an array of New Zealand craft beer will collide in what is shaping up to be a decidedly convivial day. For beer lovers, purveyors like Sawmill, Three Sisters, Garage Project, Morningcider, Yeastie Boys, Urbanaut and Deep Creek will be popping up at Public Drinks Co in Harbour Eats to offer tastings and pours of all their best brews. But even if beer isn’t your thing, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious food and fun entertainment, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Tickets for Brewfest are $40 per person and can be bought here.
Get ready to celebrate seven years of Culprit’s delicious and boundary-pushing cuisine as Chef Kyle Street welcomes a raft of friends and former colleagues into his kitchen for an unmissable, one-night-only event. Taking place on Wednesday the 25th of October, Alumni 2.0 will see chefs Des Harris (of The Hilton, ex-Clooney), Shepherd Elliot (of Shepherd, Concord), Otis Schapiro (of Lilian and Schapiros), Swati Korabu (of Bossi, Liam King (ex-Depot and Logan Brown) and of course, Kyle Street & Robertta Young (of Culprit) coming together to present a spectacular six-course degustation menu with beverage matches. There will be two sittings at 5:30pm and 8:30pm, tickets are $199 per person and can be secured here. (Given this epic line-up, we expect these to go fast so secure your spot now.)
Set behind the recognisable doors of Ponsonby Social Club’s sister bar, Ante Social, a whole new concept has taken shape. For the last six years, Ante Social has built something of a cult reputation for hosting underground DJs and bands and facilitating some of the best nights to be had in this city. But now, after a sleek makeover, the venue has taken on a new life as a Japanese-style listening bar. Think bohemian Brooklyn speakeasy meets the kind of audiophile music rooms you might find in Shibuya. “The Ante Social re-launch is providing Aucklanders with a much-needed gear change,” says Bobby Mukai, co-owner with Sharr Berzati. “We invite people to come in and live that international audiophile experience, with delicious beverages in hand and let us take them on a journey of music and cocktails.” Boasting record shelves designed by Luke King Design, filled with Mukai’s own personal collection, a musical programme dreamt up by ‘Godfather of Auckland’s DJ scene’ Manual Bundy, a sound system curated by the one and only Nathan Haines, a cocktail list inspired by New York and Japan and created by master mixologist Sahil Patel, and a food offering that will change every month, from Mexican to Filipino to Ethiopian and more, the new Ante Social truly has ascended to the kind of venue you would find in any world city. Lucky for us then that’s it’s right on our doorstep. If you’re looking for a watering hole this weekend, look no further.
Usually only accessible to guests staying at Hotel Britomart, The Libraries will be opening its doors for a High Tea event on Saturday the 28th of October, and it’s one you seriously don’t want to miss out on. An event in honour of Hotel Britomart’s third birthday, High Tea in The Libraries is promising to be a celebration of Aotearoa, featuring a menu of contemporary delicacies crafted by Hotel Britomart’s talented Head Chef, Andrew Lautenbach, who was inspired by some of his favourite childhood treats to craft a line-up that is set to take the idea of ‘high tea’ to a whole new level. Guests will be welcomed into The Libraries’ exquisite space with a glass of No1 Family Estate Assemblé, followed by a selection of teas from Zealong (New Zealand’s only commercial tea estate). From there, they will be treated to three leisurely courses featuring delightful savoury and sweet bites made using utterly delicious and sustainably sourced seasonal produce. Tickets for the High Tea are $95 per person, and there will be two sittings on the day, on at 12pm and one at 2:30pm. Set to be a popular event, we suggest booking your spot now.
Carlo Buenaventura continues to delight us with his cutting-edge culinary creations at Bar Magda, where new-wave Filipino food takes centre stage in a flurry of unique and flavoursome fare. Now, Buenaventura has added a raft of exceptional new dishes to Bar Magda’s offering, with a new menu that looks set to take things to the next level. See more information here.
Art lovers take note, Park Hyatt Auckland is set to host an afternoon of intriguing immersion into the remarkable world of Māori art with an afternoon tea and talk series by a raft of notable New Zealand artists. Taking place on Saturday the 14th of October from 2:30pm until 5pm, The Artist Conversation Afternoon Tea will be hosted by Sir Bob Harvey and features talks from the likes of Peata Larkin, Steve Dunlop and more. Allowing attendees to discover the beauty of the creative process while indulging in a specially curated afternoon tea, this event is one you don’t want to miss out on. Tickets are $75 per person and can be secured here.
At this unique, one-night-only degustation dinner, Kingi’s award-winning chef, Tom Hishon will shine a light on the humble snapper, harnessing its versatility to create five unforgettable courses that showcase this fish as you’ve likely never experienced it before. Using a different part of the snapper in each course, Hishon will demonstrate inventive techniques combined with local and seasonal produce to bring out a range of outstanding flavours and textures. From snapper crudo with nasturtium, apple and elderflower, to asparagus with snapper bacon and macadamia, the dishes on this menu are set to offer a culinary journey. Beyond the versatility of the snapper itself, its abundance in New Zealand waters makes it a favourite for any sustainability-focused menus (something that has long underpinned the culinary philosophy at Kingi), and to highlight this point, representatives from non-profit LegaSea will also be at this event, to briefly talk about their dedicated to restoring the abundance, biodiversity and health of New Zealand’s marine environment. They will also be announcing an exciting new product launch in partnership with Kingi and Critical Design. The dinner will take place on Wednesday the 25th of October, and tickets are $125 per person. Secure your spot here.
Iconic Scottish Whisky Laphroaig is teaming up with Kiwi culinary pioneer Rewi Spraggon (A.K.A The Hāngi Master) to put on a dinner at Mechanics Bay that you really don’t want to miss. There, exceptional whisky, mouthwatering food and convivial company will collide in an evening to remember. A must-do for whisky lovers and gourmands, Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire will take place on Saturday the 28th of October. More information and tickets can be found here.
October is officially Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and so, in a show of solidarity and support Park Hyatt Auckland I hosting a “Steeped in Support” Pink Afternoon Tea in partnership with Breast Cancer Foundation NZ and Wiki’d Support. Taking place on Thursday 12th of October from 2pm until 5pm, this event invites guests to enjoy a four-course, pink-inspired afternoon tea, which includes a glass of rose and a take-home gift of tea towels from the Tea Towel Takeover. Also featuring a talk from Stephanie Wiki, a breast cancer survivor with an inspiring story and a silent auction, this is one very worthy occasion we would encourage everyone to book now. Tickets (available here) are $90 per person, and all proceeds will go directly to BCFNZ.
Viaduct Harbour stalwart, Soul Bar & Bistro is giving October a decidedly convivial spin with its month-long cocktail special. This month, it’s the ultimate party cocktail — the Pornstar Martini — that is taking centre stage in a celebration that has seen Soul’s clever Bar Manager, Katie Cramphorn, create a variety of takes on the classic libation. For all the information about the cocktail celebration you don’t want to miss, see here.
Serving a raft of superfood-packed mood-boosting smoothies, fresh juices, yummy bites, bone broth and more, naturopath Grace Miller’s Liquid Lightening made a quick impact when it opened earlier this year in a temporary spot on Jervois Road, drawing crowds of people looking for something satiating that would actually benefit their health. But it was never to be a permanent thing, and its closure a few months ago left a smoothie-shaped hole in our hearts. So, you can imagine our excitement when we heard that Miller was bringing Liquid Lightening back for one month only with a residency at Annabel’s. Throughout October, on Fridays and Saturdays from 8am until 1pm, you’ll find Miller set up at Annabel’s slinging the smoothies you have been craving for so long. Here for a good time, not a long one, don’t miss out on what might be your last chance to get hold of Liquid Lightening’s liquid gold.
One of our absolute favourite Viaduct Harbour spots, Hello Beasty, has revealed a raft of delicious new additions to its flavoursome menu, now sitting alongside the classic dishes that have long drawn us into this exceptional waterfront spot. Some of the highlights include a fiery new Beasty Fried Chicken, seasoned with Sichuan chilli and served with coriander chimichurri and lemon, a plate of fresh, line-caught kingfish served with fermented ponzu, shio kombu, puffed rice and chives, and the utterly mouthwatering gua bao (a lovely little ‘baby’ bao that is the perfect taster) filled with miso-braised, grain-fed brisket, pickled sesame carrot, beetroot and coriander with chilli and lime sauce. All of these and more can be enjoyed with Hello Beasty icons like the KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower), the Prawn and Crab Toast and the Katsu Sando. If you haven’t been to Hello Beasty in a while, consider this your sign to book a table STAT.
Wellington-based Six Barrel Soda has been crafting its delicious soda syrups since 2012, and has, since its inception, focused on using low-waste and reusable materials. Now, in what could be considered a perfect pairing, the brand has teamed up with Everybody Eats — the local charity on a mission to reduce food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand via pay-as-you-feel restaurants that use food that would otherwise go to waste. Together, Six Barrel Soda and Everybody Eats have launched a special edition Spiced Orange Syrup, a sustainable soda syrup made with zesty local oranges and spices, where the orange rinds have been donated by Moore Wilson’s where they are a byproduct of their fresh juice operation. The new Spiced Orange Syrup is available to purchase from selected stockists country-wide as well as online here, with $1 from every bottle sale going to Everybody Eats’ very worthy cause.
The warmer, longer days we’ve been waiting for are almost here, so of course, it is to one of our favourite Herne Bay haunts that we flock. As beloved for its delicious food as it is for its coveted outdoor tables that get the best of the late afternoon sun, Andiamo is the perfect place to lock in a long lunch, particularly because of the special set lunch menu it is running with Perrier-Jouët that is available Wednesday through Sunday, from 12pm until 3pm until the end of October. There, for $69 per person, guests will be greeted with a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut, and invited to indulge in a delicious, two-course feast including their choice of entrée and main. That said, if a longer lunch is on the cards, sides like a mixed leaf salad or Andiamo’s famous potato fries can be added to the table for $10 a dish, similarly, those seeking to end their lunch on a sweet note can add the tiramisu to their order for an additional $10. Alongside the delectable food is a dedicated Perrier-Jouët Champagne menu of exquisite drops as the perfect accompaniment to any springtime lunch. From Perrier-Jouët’s Blason Rosé NV to its Blanc de Blancs NV to its iconic Belle Époque, 2014 (a truly rare and elegant Champagne), plus the option for diners to pre-book a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut to be ready table side for the special price of $120, Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët lunchtime menu is here for a good time, not a long one, so get in while you can.
The September iteration of this event was a quick sell-out and for very good reason. Now, Jervois Steak House is back with another epic Wagyu Evening on Tuesday the 31st of October. Nestled in the cosy surrounds of JSH’s freshly refurbished dining room, guests are invited to enjoy a delectable, five-course menu designed by Executive Chef Gavin Doyle and designed to showcase the pinnacle of quality beef: Wagyu. There, a variety of Wagyu including the extremely renowned Japanese A5 Wagyu, will be on the menu, sourced from JSH’s esteemed Wagyu beef producers, who are masters in their craft. The exclusive wine partner for October’s event is Te Kairanga, with optional wine matches available to purchase on the night (something that is sure to take any experience to the next level). Book your spot here or by emailing Jervois Steak House here.
Carlo Buenaventura has long been dedicated to offering a dining experience with a difference at his cosy, Cross Street venue. In fact, Bar Magda has garnered quite a stellar reputation among local gourmands for its intriguing food that, on the one hand, is deeply rooted in traditional Filipino flavours, while on the other, is catered perfectly to the palette of the contemporary New Zealand diner. Buenaventura calls it ‘new wave Filipino,’ we call it delicious.
Now, Bar Magda has unveiled a raft of delicious new additions to its lauded menu, each one in keeping with Buenaventura’s aim of curating a unique experience that never feels stuffy. Here, the dishes are decidedly elevated but still accessible enough that you might also enjoy them at the bar with a beautiful glass of wine. These new dishes, Buenaventura tells us, mark the first instalment of Bar Magda’s full menu change, with other additions set to land in the coming months as new seasonal produce becomes available.
Left: Terrine of spiced ham ‘SPAM’ Right: Barbecue asparagus
Among the raft of new dishes, a few certainly stand out. One is the incredibly tasty Terrine of Spiced Ham, or what Buenaventura calls his take on ‘SPAM’, made with a secret spice mix, prosciutto, smoked pork hock, back fat and smoked ham. This is served with toast, pickled cucumber and crab-fat mayonnaise. Another is the Barbecue Green Asparagus, served with green miso, white anchovy and sauce Mirasol — a sauce that the Bar Magda team created with flavours of yellow peppers and coconut yoghurt. Here, a hint of savoury spice is paired perfectly with a burst of fresh acidity for a balanced and light dish.
There is also a Glazed Purple Carrot Ham, which is an interesting dish in which the purple carrots have been braised, smoked and lightly dehydrated to deliver a soft, chewy, ham-like texture. They are glazed with Bar Magda’s in-house sweet and spicy sauce that speaks to a fusion of Asian and American barbecue flavours, and is served with fresh goat’s cheese and crunchy snow peas.
Left: Magda pork and duck longaniza Right: Smoked yams
Elsewhere, the 300g Magda Pork and Duck Longaniza is a Spanish sausage (similar to chorizo) made with sauerkraut (that has been charred and preserved with Filipino fish sauce ‘patis’), yellow mustard and seed sambal. Buenaventura tells me his team makes the base for this in-house before sending it to the experts at Grey Lynn Butchers, who do the final touches to create the perfect-looking sausage.
The Smoked and Pickled Black Yams are a delightful vegetable option, served with a slaw of kohlrabi and ginger, coconut bay leaf aioli and buttered pistachio, while we have our eyes on the Kilaw dish, which comprises raw swordfish and scallop dressed in pickled lemon and served with nashi pear and macapuno (a type of coconut endemic to the Philippines that is softer and naturally sweeter) and served carpaccio style.
From start to finish, Bar Magda’s new dishes truly are a delight for the senses. Unique, thoughtful, full of flavour and unlike anything else you’ll experience in this city, these new additions are giving us every excuse to book a table at Bar Magda immediately. And if you are still yet to try this stellar spot, consider this a sign.
Kicking October into high gear, Soul Bar & Bistro has launched a month-long cocktail celebration, and everyone’s invited. But this is no ordinary celebration. In true Soul fashion, the Viaduct Harbour stalwart has put a decidedly playful spin on its convivial offering by shining a light on the iconic Pornstar Martini — a flirty and fun libation (often dubbed the ultimate party cocktail) and one of the top 10 cocktails globally since its inception two decades ago.
For those unfamiliar, here’s a little background on the Pornstar Martini. Created in 2002 by Douglas Ankrah of the famous Lab Bar in London, the original Pornstar Martini harnessed only four ingredients: vanilla vodka, vanilla sugar, passion fruit liqueur and passion fruit purée, and was served with a side of Champagne or prosecco in a shot glass. Ankrah allegedly wanted to create something “bold, sexy and playful” and his creation rapidly spread far and wide, with various iterations of the cheeky martini popping up all over the world in the ensuing decades. In 2018, it was named the UK’s favourite cocktail.
Millionaire’s Pornstar
At Soul, the Pornstar Martini has long been something of a signature. Because, while the name of this particular cocktail might draw a few giggles around a table, it is also inevitably re-ordered in rounds once guests have sampled its deliciously fruity and effervescent nature.
Now, Soul has decided to put the Pornstar firmly in the spotlight this month, its clever bartending team led by Bar Manager Katie Cramphorn, creating a comprehensive Pornstar Martini menu that reimagines the cocktail in a variety of ways.
Left: White Chocolate & Mango Pornstar. Right: Pornstar Spritz and Raspberry & Peach Pornstar
From Soul’s take on the original, made with Absolut vanilla vodka, passionfruit, pineapple, lime and bubbles, to its Pornstar Spritz, with added Malibu, candied pineapple and citrus, to its White Chocolate & Mango Pornstar, featuring white chocolate and mango alongside the usual ingredients and even a Millionaire’s Pornstar, which sees the classic martini served with Mumm Champagne and a bump of French caviar, the month-long special menu offers a range of ways to enjoy the sweet libation, whatever your flavour preferences. There’s even an alcohol-free version made with London Dry, passionfruit, pineapple, lime, egg white and bubbles.
Here for a good time, not a long one, Soul Bar & Bistro’s Pornstar Martini Month is on now until the end of October and is the perfect excuse for a night out, so get some friends together for a few celebratory tipples and let your hair down in style.
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