It was recently brought to our attention that, while Cooke’s — Fable Auckland’s in-house restaurant & bar, is much-loved amongst city dwellers and those who work nearby, many outside of this cohort aren’t familiar with its elevated offering. So, in a bid to educate the masses, we’ve laid out the many reasons why you should pay Cooke’s a visit. From an unmatched locale to its contemporary fare, unmissable events and more, we round up why Cooke’s is a dining destination worthy of your attention.
Located within Fable Auckland — a boutique hotel nestled within the storied Windsor House, Cooke’s is directly in the heart of the city, and brings a touch of old-world elegance and charm to Auckland’s central city dining scene. Occupying the chicest of spaces, the restaurant and bar (much like the hotel itself) is 1920s-inspired, paying homage to the site’s heritage. An Art Deco building sets the scene for a luxurious dining experience, unlike anything else in the city, boasting ornate architecture and interiors that instantly transport diners to the roaring twenties — with the convivial vibe to match.
When it comes to the food, however, the old world influence is nowhere to be seen. Under the helm of esteemed head chef Jay Edejer, Cooke’s culinary offering is utterly modern, with innovative, inventive fare centred on the highest quality seasonal, organic produce — Cooke’s collaborating with local suppliers to ensure each carefully considered dish shines a spotlight on only the best ingredients.
Outside of sophisticated day-to-night contemporary fare, Cooke’s boasts one of the city’s most delicious high teas. Running daily, this elevated affair offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, with the likes of prawn brioche rolls and egg truffle sandwiches featuring alongside an array of sweet delights — from lemon glaze scones to pistachio financiers with rose chantilly, a decadent strawberry cheesecake with brown butter crumb, and an entirely satisfying streusel choux with chocolate cremeux and vanilla sugar, served alongside tea, coffee, and of course, champagne.
And, while the culinary offering is reason enough to visit, the Friday live music nights are when the vibrant spot truly comes to life. Each week, Cooke’s promises an unforgettable evening of soulful tunes, turning an end-of-week meal into something else entirely. Settle in for the night, grabbing a handful of tasty small plates off the bar menu, or opt for something a little more hearty from the all day menu — choosing from the likes of house made pappardelle with porcini and scallops and lumina lamb loin with baby beets, cannellini puree and mint jus. But first, before the food arrives, select a pour from the cellar, or a cocktail from the curated list — spanning everything from familiar favourites to inventive takes. While the classic martini is hard to pass up, the ‘Luxetails’ — Cooke’s experimental cocktail edit, offers handcrafted libations that promise an eclectic journey of artisanal flavours.
If all of this combined hasn’t persuaded you to make for Cooke’s, the upcoming Gin Degustation event promises an unforgettable evening not to be missed. Patrons will be invited to enjoy an exquisite three-course feast of delectable delights, including succulent oysters, a delicious salmon trio, and savoury confit quail, elevated further with the addition of two specially crafted gin cocktails and two tasting shots from the National Distillery. While live jazz rings out through the Fable’s hallowed dining space, guests will be guided through a fascinating exploration of gin while enjoying delectable fare. Secure a spot here.
From unmissable events to live music in the liveliest of locations, contemporary fare, inventive drinks, and high tea fit for a Queen, set in one of the City’s most stunning heritage buildings, Cooke’s delivers on all fronts — making it the perfect spot to while away a cosy evening this autumn and beyond.
Cooke's Restaurant
58-60 Queen Street
Auckland CBD
09 368 9603
