Held in Ayrburn’s The Wooldshed, followed by the after party in the Barrell Room, Chris Meehan and his team at Ayrburn gathered guests from up and down the country (and a few from further afield) for the sprawling hospitality precinct’s inaugural Winter Ball. Unsurprisingly, given Ayrburn’s standing in hospitality excellence, it was a night to remember.
Ayrburn does nothing by halves, and given how adept Meehan and his team are at conceiving an exceptional design, it’s little wonder that the utterly luxurious (and fabulously over-the-top) setting had guests stopping in their tracks. From sumptuous velvet drapery adorning the entrance (Ayrburn’s elevated take on a red carpet entrance) to the larger-than-life floral displays to the showstopping spread, no detail was left to chance, and it showed.
Festivities kicked off in fitting style, with Chris and Michaela Meehan greeting guests on arrival before the revelry began, as guests bedecked in flawless finery and jaw-dropping threads celebrated with gusto.
From relishing the incredible food on offer (something the hospitality destination has quickly become known for) to sipping on Ayrburn’s own collection of stunning wines and a few Broken Shed Vodka cocktail options, to dancing the night away to the tunes of DJ Myles Taylor, the inaugural ball was one hell of a party.
Fancy a sneak peek inside? Relive the night that was through the lens of photographer Holly Burgess.
“At Pie Rolla’s, every bite is a tribute to our heritage, combining time-honoured family traditions with exceptional flavours, using recipes passed down through generations,” Lewis Mazza-Carson tells me of his new venture, an epic, artisanal pie shop on K’ Road he’s opened the doors to with friend (and ex-Ada sous chef) Patrick Marckus.
“Pie Rolla’s journey began 13 years ago, with my parents’ first café, Salvation Kitchen, in Avondale,” Mazza-Carson tells me, “My mum handmade pies from my grandmother’s recipes, which quickly gained a loyal following,” he continues, “At that time, handmade pies created with such love and care were hard to find. After my parents moved on to their next café, the beloved pies faded from the spotlight. However, in the past year, I decided to revive the tradition.” and thus, Pie Rolla’s was born.
The Creamy Chicken, Brie & Chutney
Teaming up with friend and revered chef, Patrick Marckus, Mazza-Carson’s family recipes have been elevated to new heights, with fillings that harness Marckus’ extensive experience both within New Zealand and at Michelin-starred restaurants in France. One thing that hasn’t changed since those early days, though, is the pastry, which according to Mazza-Carson, “Remains a family treasure, and is only with real butter.” Each bite of a Pie Rollas pie, he tells me, is a tribute to his late grandmother who developed the recipes from scratch.
The concise menu, already drawing serious crowds, comprises Kiwi classics and a few more contemporary takes. From the Classic Mince and Cheese — a quintessential Kiwi staple (but not as you know it), to the much-belovedSteak, Stout, and Cheese, to the bestselling Smokey Brisket, Jalapeno & American Cheese (known to often sell out in under 15 minutes).
The Steak & Stout
Beef aside, there is also a Creamy Chicken and Brie number, which, Mazza-Carson tells me they’ve elevated to “a new level of deliciousness” with a creamy béchamel sauce. There’s also a pitch perfect House Smoked Fish Pie which very much has my attention, a Layered Potato Pie for the veges, reminiscent of a potato gratin with caramelised onions, Mazza-Carson’s personal favourite, the Bacon and Egg Brekkie Pie, and last but, certainly not least, the Pulled Pork Pie — currently a weekly special, but so wildly popular that it will soon become a permanent fixture on the menu.
Drinks are super easy, with just the classic Karma Cola range on offer. The duo opted for Karma as they are B Corp, certified for their sustainability standards, which resonates with Pie Rolla’s sustainably-driven ethos. Mazza-Carson and Marckus have been able to limit the eatery’s pastry waste to 0% — avoiding food waste while using less energy, water, and ingredients in the process.
The space itself is pared-back, light, and minimal, with Mazza-Carson and his mum taking the reigns on the fit-out, “Mum and I worked together to bring the space together,” he tells me, “We used a simple colour base to make the Pie Rolla’s blue pop, and kept things simple and understated — letting the food speak for itself.”
The pair pride themselves on hand rolling their pastry, producing fillings with love, and providing every customer with welcoming, quick, and easy service. And, we’d add to that list: turning out the best pies in the city.
Filling, a bit indulgent and ultimately very satisfying, Pie Rolla’s’ epic pies are the quintessential comfort food we’re craving. And if you, like us, can’t wait to get your fix, we suggest getting in quick — as these tasty morsels are (unsurprisingly) in hot demand.
Opening hours: Tuesday — Sunday, 10.30am until sold out
Few places offer vibes as consistently lively as Viaduct Harbour stalwart, Soul. With a food menu that runs the gamut from light and refreshing to comforting and hearty, a drinks menu that always inspires indulgence, and the exceptional, consistently warm service of Liv Carter and her team, no matter what you’re in for, you know its always a good time at Soul.
Soul’s peanut nutter
This month, giving us yet another reason to visit its lively locale, Soul has revamped its cocktail menu entirely — adding a host of inventive new libations (and a few more classic renditions, with a signature Soul twist) to compliment the exceptional food on offer.
From sweet to sour, fruit-forward to more savoury sips, the newly-added cocktails join familiar favourites on the menu (don’t panic, the Pornstar Martini remains) — offering a soulful salve to the dreary winter days ahead. Here, we round up our picks. Salute!
Office Manager Ivan’s Pick
Peanut Nutter
Peanut Nutter
Pairing Irish whiskey with peanut butter whiskey, oloroso, maple, and chocolate bitters, this delightful drop has all the makings of a perfect winter cocktail. Warming, comforting, subtly sweet, and entirely satisfying.
Digital Director Sammy’s Pick
Bringing Sexy Back
Bringing Sexy Back
This fruit-forward cocktail is vibrant enough to lure even the most winter-adverse amongst us out of the house. Melding żubrówka vodka with fresh peach, raspberry, and acidified apple, this delectable drop is a crowd-pleaser, through and through.
Editor Sjaan’s Pick
Grapefruit Gimlet
Grapefruit Gimlet
Soul’s elevated riff on a gimlet pairs gin with Aperol, grapefruit cordial, thyme, and anise atomiser — resulting in a heady delight that packs a punch and tastes like it belongs on a Mediterranean seaside.
Commercial Director Ange’s Pick
SOUL Punch
SOUL Punch
Akin to a rum punch, but with a decidedly elevated spin, Soul’s SOUL Punch is a punchy blend of rum, pineapple, passionfruit, orange cordial, honey, and falernum. One is never enough.
Creative Director Anna’s Pick
Nogroni
Nogroni
And last, but certainly not least, Soul’s non-alcoholic Nogroni offers a sophisticated take on the drink of the moment, pairing London dry, with Italian orange, aperitif rosso, and rhubarb and orange bitters.
With a stellar line-up of venues, from Gochu, Gemmi, and Ghost Donkey, to Burger Burger and the newly-opened Kome, the One Queen Dining precinct within Commercial Bay is one of the city’s best spots to park up for a drink and casual bite. Now, adding to its ever-present allure, the dining destination has unveiled an Aperitivo Hour, with a host of exceptional offers to choose from.
Ghost Donkey’s beef & black bean tostadas with their hibiscus chilli margarita
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday between 5—7pm, each of the five eateries with the precinct will be showcasing bespoke food and drink pairings, with a series of tantalising deals sure to satisfy. At local favourite Burger Burger, you can get potato skins and two Aperol spritzes for $32, while at Mexican-inspired tequila and mezcal bar Ghost Donkey, you’ll find two beef or black bean tostadas with a hibiscus chilli margarita for $25.
At the newly-opened sake bar and Japanese eatery, Kome, you can sample chicken kaarage, Tokyo chicken wings and skinny fries for $30, and modern Korean bar and eatery Gochu will be serving two delicious fried chicken sliders with a house beer or wine for $25. And last but not least, neighbourhood trattoria Gemmi rounds out the Aperitvo Hour offering with their cacio e pepe fries and two tap beers for just $29.
Gochu’s delicious fried chicken sliders with their house beer
Plus, to celebrate the launch of the limited edition menus, Commercial Bay will give the first 200 patrons who partake in Aperitivo Hour a 3-hour parking voucher to truly settle in and unwind after hours.
This enticing, limited-time offering is available from Thursday July 11th until Saturday August 3rd, every Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 5—7pm.
In February, Cartier unleashed its iconic Panthère, along with more than 300 exquisite pieces of High Jewellery, upon Sydney, for the first exhibition of its kind Down Under.
Think Cartier, and most people will think of the maison’s most famous creations; the Love bracelet designed by Aldo Cipullo in New York in 1969, or the iconic Panthère pieces designed in Paris by Jeanne Toussaint in 1948 for that great jewellery connoisseur the Duchess of Windsor, Wallace Simpson, or the Crash watch designed in London in 1967.
And although Cartier for a time had three very distinct identities; Cartier Paris, Cartier London, and Cartier New York, it has long since been one company, headquartered in Paris. That does not mean, however, that it thinks of itself as indelibly French. Non, Cartier is today, if anything, a globe-straddling brand that rather than spitting out exact replicas of the same store all over the world, be it Beijing or Auckland, becomes the perfect guest; graciously respecting its hosts and celebrating its new home’s heritage and culture whilst staying true to its own spirit.
The Sydney Opera House lined with Cartier bellboys
In Sydney this past February, that could not have been more evident, when Cartier brought over 300 pieces to the Australian city to celebrate its high jewellery in the first event of its kind Down Under, with an exhibition space that commissioned the work of local artists, celebrated the nation’s flora and fauna and cultural heritage, and culminated in a gala event held in that most iconic of spaces, the Sydney Opera House. As an extremely spoilt jewellery editor, I’ve had the privilege of seeing Cartier’s unmissable red-jacketed ‘bellboys’ in locations all over the world, from Madrid to Florence, but the sight of dozens of them flanking the red carpet in extraordinary symmetry at the foot of the Opera House was by the far the most fabulous sight.
“The exhibition itself was held at a venue whose former role as a wool storage shed was alluded to with a plunging ceiling-to-floor art installation…”
The exhibition itself was held at Pier 2/3, at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The venue’s former role as a wool storage shed was alluded to with a plunging ceiling-to-floor art installation by local artist Jacqui Fink, an artwork that comprised thousands of twisted woollen fibres, undyed, pouring onto the floor like a fibrous waterfall. Artworks by Tracey Deep, who specialises in creating pieces from foraged materials like echidna quills or Eucalyptus branches, was commissioned especially for the event, and the floors and walls reflected Australia’s iconic landscapes, from sandstone to the brick red tones of Uluru, the sacred rock.
The exhibition itself was divided into themes, from architecture to flora and fauna. The Splendens necklace, for example, was inspired by the fighting fish, with strings of luscious red spinel beads interspersed with diamonds and faceted spinels. Spinel appeared also in the Trovoada necklace, inspired by the colours of a stormy sky, this time juxtaposed with the deep grey-purple of chalcedony beads. There were traditional pieces on show, naturally, like a 1979 era Cartier Paris bracelet top and tailed by onyx and yellow diamond striped tigers, or a 1928 Cartier London necklace, transformable to a brooch.
It was the Australian inspiration chapter that most intrigued, however. Opal is found all over the world, including Ethiopia and Mexico, but there is no question that Australia is home to the very finest stones of all. From a pure white opal beaded necklace to a high jewellery watch sporting a sumptuous oval juxtaposed with a pale, engraved emerald, Cartier’s affinity with the gemstone is palpable.
Onto the gala evening, where guests, including special clients from around the region, were treated to an extraordinary evening on the stage of the Concert Hall — something that has never been done before. As the renowned pianist Van Ann Nyugen dramatically played for seated guests, her ‘orchestra’ popped up under spotlight, one by one, from the empty arena around us, while a group from the Sydney Dance Company moved mesmerically to the singing of soprano Cathy Di-Zhang, supported by the extraordinary voices of Chorus Collective.
But none of this was just lip service for a fleeting event. In Cartier’s Sydney flagship, especially commissioned works include a vast weaving by indigenous artists from Ramingining, a tiny Aboriginal community in the remote Northern Territory. Sweeping from floor to ceiling in the boutiques vast ground floor, the weaving is the work of numerous artists who use traditionally dyed pandanus leaves to create beautifully meandering shapes, all stitched together in one harmonious whole.
It may be Australia through Cartier’s eyes, but it’s a beautiful, respectful vision.
From longline coats to luxe tailoring, knee-high boots to cosy scarves, and neutral knits to smart skirts, these are the six pieces you need to effortlessly navigate this season (and the next) in style.
Be transported to the opulent ambience of 18th-century French salons with Madame — a captivating collection of footed bowls, trays and more, crafted by Sambonet. Drawing inspiration from a bygone era of elegance and prosperity, Madame melds contrasting volumes, varying heights, and a mesmerising array of colours — each piece showcasing Sambonet’s mastery in silverware craftsmanship.
Across a series of stunning serveware, impeccably contoured lines gracefully meet bases rendered in resin, artfully experimenting with contrasting materials to evoke an air of timeless luxury. From chic cake stands to striking footed bowls, these are the pieces we’re coveting.
“San Ray is a place where you can eat, drink and stay all day,” Rebecca Smidt tells me of her and her partner’s new venture occupying the space that, up until recently, housed Orphan’s Kitchen. “We’re inspired by the slow pace of driving the Pacific Coast Highway, Baja, and Mexico” she continues, “We love the bright flavours of Oaxaca, and that’s what you’ll find peppered throughout the menu.”
Rebecca and Dariush are the hospitality stalwarts behind Cazador (and offshoot, Cazador Deli), the eatery they’ve now run for over 10 years, cultivating the institution’s incredible legacy. Call it the 10-year itch, or simply the desire to branch out, but a few months ago when the Orphan’s space came up, Rebecca knew it was time to give something else a go, “We’ve always wondered what we’d create if we didn’t have Cazador’s legacy — if we were starting from scratch,” she tells me, “and San Ray is the answer to that question.”
Left to right: Burnt Confit Leek and Chargrilled Mushroom Skewer
From what I’ve seen, it’s a fantastic answer indeed — a space that caters to all, with myraid options for drinking, dining, stopping by, staying all day, or anything (and everything) in between. “At San Ray, our guests are invited to ease into the day with eighthirty organic coffee, take back the lunch hour with a carafe of wine, order a small plate, maybe another… or go all out with a multi-course dinner, paired drinks, and dessert.” Rebecca proudly states, “It’s about taking it slow, being indulgent and eating well. All day.”
When it comes to the eatery’s layout, not too much has changed since Oprhan’s, but there’s been a definite face lift, with subtle changes elevating the eatery and shifting it’s usage ever so slightly. Stepping inside, expect a relaxed and comfortable dining room designed by Forma, with inspiration drawn from the lilac hues of the Monmouth Glass chandelier. Out the back, the covered patio has been given a laid-back makeover, transforming it into a more than perfect spot for convivial drinks and snacks, and the space upstairs has been transformed into a private (and very chic) room for party people.
On the food front, the options are diverse and plentiful, from breakfast favourites like eggs, crumpets, and toast, to an all-day menu with confident versions of the classics — from caesar salad, crudo, an Ohau farm wagyu rib eye steak, and tajín fries, to a number of tasty snacks, decadent desserts, and a few more tasty surprises yet to come.
The drinks list is extensive, elevated, and everyman, with a wine list highlighting premium local producers and quality internationals — with a few tasty drops on tap, and an extensive cellar. Cocktails include mezcal margaritas, Svitlo Ukrainian vodka espresso martinis, and micheladas, while there are a few favourite beers on tap for those languid afternoons come spring and summer.
San Ray 1/2 Bird Wood-Fired Chicken
Inspiring early knock-offs (just like the good old days), at San Ray’s Golden Afternoons (Tuesday to Saturday, 3-5pm), there’s a feel-good trio of house-made chips, dip and a glass of Champagne for just $30 per person. Champagne Collet Art Deco Brut is the house pour, and you can go large and add Sturia caviar if you please.
With Rebecca’s hallmark well-informed and generous service, Dariush on the tools in the kitchen (a job he’s very adept at indeed), and a thoughtful, elevated-yet-casual menu spanning both food and drinks, San Ray has all the makings of a future institution.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Ema Peter | 10 Jul 2024
Architecture — Su Casa Design Interior Design — Tomlenovich Design
Italian-Canadian interior designer Marianna Tomlenovich is known for her captivating homes that are as unique as the individuals who inhabit them. So, when it came time to turn her attention to her own personal residence, the designer looked to her background for inspiration, drawn to the elevated simplicity and understated elegance of Italian design and architecture.
Wanting to create a calm canvas for the busyness of family life, Tomlenovich employed a soothing and tranquil palette, bathing the entire house in a single, warm, creamy hue. The majority of the walls are rendered in a micro-concrete, lending texture, depth, and a decidedly European slant to the home, while light, wide-plank oak hardwood flooring infuses spaces with warmth.
“Wanting to create a calm canvas for the busyness of family life, Tomlenovich employed a soothing and tranquil palette, bathing the entire house in a single, warm, creamy hue.”
A soaring, 7.3 metre-high ceiling marks the home’s entryway, leading into the expansive, open-plan ground floor. Here, soft, curved lines set the tone, with a striking brick arch framing a semi-circle window looking out onto the pool, while a central, undulating fireplace cleverly separates lounge and dining.
This curvilinear theme is continued in the home’s grand kitchen, with a soft-edged monolithic island anchoring the space, complemented by half-circle stools and offset with a striking, deeply veined Italian marble splashback.
Wanting to conjure a spa-like ambience in bathrooms, Tomlenovich embraced a luxurious, rich material palette, combined with soft lighting and clean lines — avoiding anything too angular and sticking to neutral hues. Tumbled edge marble and limestone add depth and warmth, with Taj Mahal countertops furthering the home’s emphatically calm aesthetic.
“Bedrooms offer an elegant escape, with quietly luxurious details and thoughtful textures combining to stunning effect.”
Bedrooms offer an elegant escape, with quietly luxurious details and thoughtful textures combining to stunning effect. In the master suite, generous windows bathe the space in natural light — dappled by the mature trees lining the quaint street, while the stunning adjoining dressing room is lit from above by an expansive skylight.
While this home’s design leans wholeheartedly into the beauty of simplicity, there is no shortage of considered details which nod to the Italian art of timeless elegance. From a series of striking vignettes to a considered material palette to the clever use of curvature, ultimately, what Marianna Tomlenovich has created is not just a minimalist masterpiece — but a perfectly-realised family home.
By now you’ve likely heard all about Ayrburn’s incredible ‘Christmas Wonderland‘ which has seen the precinct’s striking grounds transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland, with light displays, larger-than-life decorations, and now, an ice skating rink to fully enliven the white Christmas experience.
Here, visitors of all ages are invited to throw on a pair of skates and glide across Ayrburn’s enchanting ice rink, or watch on from the sidelines with a festive mulled wine or tasty hot chocolate.
Whether you’re an experienced skater, or it’s your first time on skates, Ayrburn’s ice skating rink is perfect for all ages and skill levels, and promises to add a touch of European winter charm to your winter experience.
Open from now until July 23rd, from 12pm — 8pm, Monday through Friday, Ayrburn’s ice skating rink is an experience not to be missed. To book, simply add tickets to your reservation at checkout when booking online for any of the precinct’s venues, or grab a ticket directly at the rink. Tickets are $30 per adult, and $20 per child, including skate hire (or, grab a family pass for four for $90).
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