When Cotto, the beloved Karangahape Road dining destination renowned for its flavoursome fare and epic pasta, closed suddenly last year, it left a significant hole in our lives. After all, it had firmly established itself as one of the best places to pop into for a tasty bite, or a convivial dinner with friends. It even had a private room that had become popular for a range of events, from intimate celebrations to large parties. In fact, Cotto’s potent mix of delicious food, good vibes, great service and its position in the heart of Karangahape Road had made it something of an iconic Auckland destination, one of those places that seemed to keep getting better with every visit.
Arancini sweetcorn taleggio basil
Maltagliati Lamb Shoulder Ragu
But after a series of internal disruptions towards the end of last year, Cotto had to close its doors, leaving a number of question marks lingering around when they would reopen, and if indeed they were planning on reopening at all.
Fast forward to this week and we are delighted to say that Cotto is back in business, and while much of the offering has remained the same, from the space to the menu, and even the waitstaff (why mess with a good thing, right?) there are a couple of key differences.
Spinach & goats cheese dumplings
Zucchini fritti Lemon
Firstly, Cotto is now Otto. A subtle name shift to indicate the second big change: that the restaurant has a team of new owners, including Edward Hurrell and John Pountney (also the Head Chef) and two of what was previously Cotto’s core team members. “We hope to bring back what we managed to achieve as the Cotto team and more,” Hurrell tells me. “To resurrect a restaurant that people loved with its delicious food, fun atmosphere and great value, amongst the energy we all enjoy about K’ Road. The entire team is thrilled to have this opportunity to be a part of the community again.”
For Hurrell and the other new owners, the shift from ‘Cotto’ to ‘Otto’ was significant despite its simplicity. It was important for the team to disassociate themselves from the restaurant’s previous owner (whose poor business dealings had not only lead to the restaurant’s initial closure but had left a legacy of debt and burnt bridges). “We felt that, although we created the brand Cotto, the bad debts left around town by the owner/investor warranted a subtle rebrand,” Hurrell explains. “It’s close enough to the original name, but also indicates a new era for our loyal staff, suppliers and customers.”
So for anyone who was mourning the loss of their favourite dining spot, Otto is now open and busy again, as it should be! If you haven’t been there in a while, this is a great time to book a table.
The 2024 Iconic Auckland Eats list, featuring 100 of Auckland’s top dishes as nominated by the public, has just been released — giving Aucklanders and those visiting a comprehensive guide to what to eat across the region. Developed annually, the list sits as a celebration of Auckland’s incredible, diverse culinary scene, highlighting unique and beloved dishes bespoke to Tāmaki Makaurau.
Left: Bar Magda’s lamb ribs. Right: Cassia’s Pani Puri
Now in its fourth year, Iconic Auckland Eats was established by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited as a way to showcase the vibrancy of the region’s gastronomic offering, highlighting legendary dishes that range from fine dining to cheap and cheerful — covering everything in between, too. The dishes, submitted for consideration by locals, capture the essence of Auckland, embodying the cultural melting pot and richness that makes the region so special.
When it comes to what’s included, many Denizen favourites made the cut — from Bar Magda’s beautiful lamb ribs, served with pyanggang, green sambal, and a soft herb salad, to Amano’s famous scampi pasta (swoon), Depot’s fish sliders — unsurprisingly on the list for four years running, and Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast.
Left: Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger. Right: Amano’s scampi pasta
Icons like Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, Fish Smith’s fish tacos, Gochu’s milk bun, The Oyster Inn’s Te Matuku oysters, Soul Bar’s mouthwatering macaroni cheese, and Daily Bread’s irresistible custard square all feature, too, in amongst quirkier additions — from Lilian’s prosciutto and grape pizza to Sumthin Dumplin’s beef and cheese iteration, Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger, Culprit’s ‘ugly carrots’, and Ahi’s scampi corndogs (a must try).
As has been the case since the initiative’s inception, the variety of cuisines on the list reflects the incredible mix of ethnicities in Auckland, and each nominated dish has a story behind the submission, with locals sharing insight into what the dish means to them.
While reading through the thousands of submissions, the team behind Iconic Auckland Eats selects a favourite entry that embodies the list’s ethos. This year, Tracy Berno was selected as a winner, receiving vouchers to enjoy all 100 dishes across the year. Tracy’s story told of her connection to Homeland’s delicious ika mata — a dish that pays homage to Auckland’s Pacific culture and heritage, and embodies the region’s multiculturalism and unique food scene.
So, be it inspiration for a venue to visit, or a specific dish to satisfy a craving, Iconic Auckland Eats’ top 100 list rounds up some of the top spots across the region — sitting as an incredible resource for locals or those visiting from further afield.
With the summer holidays now a distant memory, and the European summer season still months away (for those lucky enough to be partaking), we’re looking local for a quick escape to scratch our insatiable holiday itch. And in the spirit of encouraging those feeling the same to indulge in a sumptuous staycation, we’ve rounded up our favourite hotel suites across the city. Whether for a special occasion or just for the feeling of a break from the daily routine, these are the best rooms to book now (and you don’t even have to get on a plane).
With its luxurious touches and prime location, the Sofitel Hotel in Viaduct Harbour should be high on any staycation list. Particularly with its opulent spa, which just happens to stock cult French skincare brand Biologique Recherche and promises indulgent facials, massages and body treatments guaranteed to rejuvinate. If you’re seeking pure indulgence, book the Sofitel’s Opera Suite, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular city views that allow guests to feel as involved in the action as they are away from it all. Here, contemporary design is entwined with delightful touches of luxury and considered objets d’art that deliver a modern, Parisian vibe. With a lounge and dining space separate to the bedroom as well as an oversized bathroom equipped with Hermès amenities, this suite makes for an escape like no other.
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers five exquisite suites designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. Our pick? The Rangihoua Suite — 65 square-metres of sumptuous, contemporary luxury on the top floor of the The Hotel Britomart, boasting north-facing views to the Waitematā Harbour as well as its own sprawling terrace and outdoor fireplace. With warm, modern interiors, a generous living space featuring a curated library, an ensuite bathroom complete with a deliciously deep bathtub in which to soak the day away, and the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this suite will have you forgetting you’re in the middle of Auckland — if only for a night or two.
A quietly luxurious hotel with a healthy dose of culture is what you’ll find at the newly-opened Pullman. Perfectly placed, this five star hotel is located a short walk from Auckland Airport’s international terminal, offering travellers the perfect spot to find rest, relaxation and much more. Meaningful design sits at the heart of this hotel, paying homage to the land on which it sits — with an exterior facade shaped to face Auckland’s three entry points, and interiors thoughtfully themed around New Zealand’s native landscape, with cultural nods throughout. Outside of the exceptional hospitality offering (Te Kaahu, helmed by chef Nancye Pirini, offers refined fare sure to satisfy), the executive suites are where the hotel’s thoughtful design shines the brightest. Here, you’ll find a cloud-like King size bed, spacious bathroom (complete with standalone bath), a well-appointed kitchen, a luxurious lounge room, and even a dedicated work space.
With an enviable waterfront position affording its guests’ unmatched views across the harbour, the Park Hyatt takes the idea of staycationing to new heights. Its Presidential Suite offers 245 square-metres of penthouse privacy, complete with separate living and dining areas, a fully-equipped kitchen, internal boardroom, private outdoor garden, personal gym and secure VIP access (if you’re feeling extra). If all that seems a bit much, the Chairman’s Suite and the Executive Suite both offer similar experiences with slightly smaller footprints. Oh and while you’re there, be sure to indulge in a meal or two at the Park Hyatt’s restaurant Onemata. We recommend the whitebait.
Retreat to this cosy corner of Grey Lynn at beautifully-finished, boutique accommodation, The Convent. Once a community for nuns (hence the name), this petite hotel packs a punch on the design front, and its Superior Suite is the perfect place to spend a quiet night or two. Ornate ceilings meet arched windows in a space that feels at once luxurious and charmingly eccentric. With a plush king bed, a private balcony, a separate lounge area and all the expected trimmings one might expect from a hotel stay, but with a distinctly curated twist, The Convent feels like a home away from home. Any stay here should be accompanied by a dinner at The Convent’s lauded (and extremely popular) restaurant, Ada.
Few places make the outside world drift away as swiftly as a QT Hotel. The renowned chain, best known for its intriguing, modern fit-outs and undeniably ‘cool’ take on hotel luxury, opened an outpost in Viaduct Harbour in 2020, and has proved the ideal staycation spot. In QT’s impressive Premier Harbour Suite, guests can expect expansive harbour views, a spacious, carefully-considered floorplan, warm, textural touches, a super luxurious Super King bed, a generous bathroom with a rainfall shower and standalone bath, and, best of all, your very own in-room bar. Oh, and QT is also home to acclaimed chef Sean Connolly’s new venture Esther, as well as only a short walk to all the bars and restaurants Viaduct Harbour has to offer.
No matter the occasion, there’s always one day of the week that leaves Aucklanders in the lurch when it comes to dining. Eating out on a Monday isn’t always the standard, but sometimes, whether it’s an occasion to celebrate or a friend in town, the situation calls for it. And because hospitality workers are deserving of their own weekend too, many places are closed.
So, to avoid getting caught out next time you want to dine out on a Monday, our editors have rounded up a few of their favourite restaurants that can be relied upon any day of the week.
With awards season in full swing, London Fashion Week coming to a close, and Milan and Paris fashion weeks just around the corner, the breakout hair trend of the year is making its mark: picture-perfect, sleek, silky, photo finish hair. According to hairstylist to the stars and industry stalwart Sam McKnight, there’s been a definitive move (back) towards more done hair, where subtle volume, shine, and gloss reign supreme.
A step back from slick buns, the idea here is a cool girl ponytail with a luxe, mirror-shine finish. To achieve the look, cleanse hair — thoroughly rinsing to avoid conditioner residue, before using heat tools to completely smooth any frizz or flyaways. Once light and fresh, sweep the hair into a tight pony using lightweight styling products to boost shine, before finishing with an oil — the secret to runway-ready locks.
Imbue your home with a tactile warmth by employing natural textures and materials. Raw timber, stone, bouclé upholstery, brass and leather detailing and soft woollen carpets all play into this trend, and will (when used correctly) result in an interior that feels inviting and cosy, but still decidedly contemporary and cool.
A delicious new addition to Auckland’s vibrant food scene is That Sando Guy — a food truck making waves for its unique blend of Japanese and Korean-inspired sandwiches. Founded by Jiaxin Qi and her husband VeeShen Teoh, the masterminds behind the beloved Phat Philly’s joint in Morningside, That Sando Guy is bringing affordable gourmet fare to the streets, all while offering a laid-back ‘camping style’ dining experience.
Smashed Cheese Burger
Drawing inspiration from Qi and Teoh’s previous success with Phat Phillys, That Sando Guy was conceived as a mobile extension of the team’s passion for serving delicious, accessible food. With a menu heavily influenced by Japanese and Korean cuisine, the tasty sandwiches — dubbed ‘sandos’ — as well as the rest of the menu are a testament to the culinary creativity at play here.
Korean Fried Chicken
Highlights include the Premium Beef Sando, the Philly Cheese Sando and the crowd-favourite Korean Fried Chicken (which has apparently been selling like hotcakes and is available in flavours like Honey Wasabi and Dry Spiced). There is also a range of donburi including a Teriyaki Chicken Don and a Teriyaki Gyu Don, a line-up of burgers, including a Peanut Butter Burger Melt and a Smashed Cheese Burger and several sides like Shiitake Gyoza, Takoyaki and Fully Loaded Fries. Here, everything is crafted with premium ingredients and boasts unique flavour combinations that reflect the essence of Japanese culinary traditions, with delicious (and sometimes unexpected) twists.
Beyond the food, Qi, Teoh and their team are passionate about creating an unforgettable experience for their customers. Whether diners just want to grab a quick bite on the go or enjoy a leisurely meal at the food truck’s laid-back setup, every visit to That Sando Guy promises to be relaxed and enjoyable.
Takoyaki
To find That Sando Guy, simply head to 955 New North Road during the week from 12pm to 9pm, or on weekends from 3pm to 10pm. And for the latest updates on their location and hours, be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook. With its dedication to quality, creativity and customer satisfaction, That Sando Guy is poised to become one of Auckland’s must-visit food trucks.
Drama, it seems, has made its way back into fashion’s favour, if the Fall 2024 runways at London Fashion Week are anything to go by. And really, thank goodness. The ‘quiet luxury’ that has infiltrated all the major collections over the last few seasons has been usurped by a turn towards sculptural silhouettes, glamorous gowns and looks that certainly aren’t afraid to court attention. Following on from our recent round-up of New York Fashion Week, here we delve into our favourite runway looks from the collections that have been shown at London Fashion Week so far, in the hope of providing you with some sartorial inspiration for the season ahead.
As much as we love the countless eateries in Auckland serving up both delicious food and elevated settings in which to enjoy it, it’s not every day that we have the time to sit down and enjoy a long, languorous lunch. Often, in the midst of a busy day, we simply need something quick and tasty to grab on the go, and luckily, there is no shortage of lunch spots in the city delivering just that. From satisfying sandos to pizza by the slice, satiating sushi, fresh salads, and delectable sweet treats to finish, here’s where to get your lunchtime fix.
When it comes to dressing in 2024, aesthetics are only one piece of an intricately woven puzzle. Wearability, versatility, functionality and durability all play an important part, amongst a host of other considerations — something Jaimie Webster Haines understands implicitly. Her eponymous label, Jaimie, is popping up this Thursday — Saturday at My Exhibition on Faraday Street in Parnell, showcasing the designer’s beautifully considered collection and offering styling advice and insight into the brand.
Left: London Shirt Release #01. Right: Bow Bow Bag
Having worked as a DJ, model and most recently, designer, both in New Zealand and abroad, Jaimie launched her label as an extension of her creative world — bringing together her passions for art, fashion, photography, and music, with her innate design sensibility and impeccable eye for detail to offer a concise edit of timeless, quality garments.
London Shirts & Karate Pants both from Release #01
The ethos behind Jaimie (the label, although the same could be said for the woman) is first and foremost centred on quality. Jaimie sources linens from Japan and Turkey and wool and cashmere from Italy, taking care to select fabrics that have enduring appeal and are built to last. The brand also utilises deadstock and textile mill leftovers where possible, as well as producing in small quantities — all with an eye to the environmental impact of the business. When it comes to production, Jaimie looks to local artisans and suppliers, carefully choosing partners that share her uncompromising commitment to craft and detail. The resulting pieces — from beautifully tailored shirts and trousers rendered in classic linen and the best quality cotton (the core of the label’s offering) to the occasional easy wearing dress or stand out accessory, are crafted with the objective of enhancing the daily life of the wearer. Any given piece by Jaime promises to provide not only comfort, but an intrinsic, emotional comfort, too — and an innate sense of confidence.
Left: Kyoto Shorts Release #01. Right: Vitals London Shirt
But don’t just take our word for it. The thing about quality design, exceptional fabrics and considered craftsmanship is that you need to experience it first-hand to truly appreciate its appeal. Knowing this, and in celebration of her new pieces and the launch of her website, Jaimie is taking up residence this weekend in the beautiful My Exhibition space. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the collection and Jaimie herself, who is around all weekend offering styling advice, insight into the garments, and of course, serving up epic tunes.
The Jaimie pop-up is running from Thursday 22nd — Saturday 24th February at My Exhibition, located at 15 Faraday Street.
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