“Hazy Tiger is a Korean tapas bar that reimagines traditional Korean dining with a modern twist,” Ho Byung Yun tells me of his new co-venture — a low-key Korean tapas and cocktail bar in the city.
Stepping through the door here is like stepping both into the future and back in time — the retro-futuristic fit-out inspiring both revelry and relaxation. “Our ambience combines a chill early vibe with late-night DJ sessions on weekends, set in a stylish space designed by Studio Weareyoung,” Yun tells me, “We want Hazy Tiger to be your go-to neighbourhood spot for any occasion.”
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Set in an atmospheric spot in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Auckland’s CBD, Hazy Tiger offers an escape, with a cosy, vibrantly-lit dining room (neon features in slimline bars that hang down from the ceiling casting the space in a luminous glow), plush booth-seating, exposed, industrial ceilings, and an intriguing wood panelling on the walls lending the space a rustic charm.
Forgoing the usual larger format shareable portions that many eateries now favour Hazy Tiger has leaned into the Spanish style of eating, with a variety of Korean-inspired dishes, served tapas-style (at affordable prices) making up the menu. “We want to allow diners to sample more options without overspending,” Yun says of the direction. As such, you’ll find the likes of grilled Korean chicken skewers served alongside crispy, deep-fried chicken skin, sweet and sour cucumber salad with gochujang sauce and a crispy crumb, Dak Jeon (a tasty Korean pancake with chicken and spring onion), Hazy Tiger’s signature kimchi tuna roll, and a delectable Bibimbap.
Alongside the food, there is a diverse wine offering, as well as a perfectly curated line-up of cocktails, which, Yun tells me, break away from the typical [Korean] soju-only offerings. You’ll also find a number of premium whiskies, and all of the usual suspects, too. Here, the drinks and food are made to be enjoyed together, and Yun hopes those visiting will branch out and try the eatery’s unique, Korean take on the classics, suggesting that the Elderflower Martini and Hazy Sunset are a great place to start.
With DJ sets on the weekend, a laid-back yet vibrant dining space, and a unique take on the Korean dishes we all know and love (not to mention an edit of seriously beautiful cocktails), Hazy Tiger is set to shake up Auckland’s inner-city dining scene, offering the perfect place to perch for your favourite tipple and a tasty bite — and linger long into the night.
Opening hours:
Wednesday to Monday — 4pm ’til late
Tuesday — closed
Hazy Tiger
22 Durham Street West
Auckland CBD
09 377 7998
