The space of a restaurant can be just as impactful on the experience it offers as its menu, and the venues that comprise our Best Interior category prove it. Honourable mentions include the sleek Faraday’s Barand sophisticated Kingi, both designed by Cheshire Architects, the slick, inner-city finish by Evolve Design at Atelier on Karangahape Road and the coastal luxury at Waiheke’s Ki Māha, designed by owner Dominique Parat. But it’s the warm, woody interior at Britomart’s Bar Non Solo by Izzard Design, that was the firm favourite for the way its moody palette and luxurious finishes set the tone for a convivial night out.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
Seminal figures in the evolution of Auckland’s hospitality scene, these innovative operators are pushing the industry forward thanks to the warm hospitality that awaits anyone dining at their venues. While Hugo Baird, owner of Lilian and Hotel Ponsonby was voted the favourite, he was closely followed by the likes of David Lee (Gochu, The Candy Shop, Good Dog Bad Dog, Green Door Pizza and Poni),Gemmayze Street’s Samir Allen, Bar Céleste’s Emma Ogilvie and Nick Landsman and Bar Magda’s Carlo Buenaventura.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
It was the heartbreak of hearing about newborns leaving hospital with nothing more than baby-sized gowns for clothes that inspired Laura Howard to start Littlemore. Built on the philosophy that every baby deserves a good start, Littlemore collects good-quality, pre-loved baby gear from donors and gives it directly to families in need. And if the charity’s exponential growth over the last few years is anything to go by, the need out there is great.
The Philosophy Littlemore wants to provide New Zealand families with essential clothes, tools and equipment to keep their newborn babies safe and nurtured. At its heart, Littlemore is about encouraging generosity, building community connection and facilitating the act of giving in the simplest, most straightforward way. Importantly, this charity works alongside groups from a diverse cross-section of New Zealand and has strong relationships with people working and living in various communities in order to identify the greatest need.
Who Are They After hearing from her midwife that some Kiwi families were leaving the hospital with virtually nothing for their newborns, Laura Howard (a new mum herself) couldn’t sit by and do nothing. At first, Howard tapped into her own network of new parents to deliver bundles of pre-loved baby clothes and essentials to maternity wards (to be distributed by midwives), but once it became apparent that there was a much greater need out there, Littlemore was born. Since its inception in 2013, this charity has grown from small beginnings in its founder’s home to occupying its own (kindly donated) commercial space in Storage King Grey Lynn. It attracts thousands of donations every year and now boasts a team of more than 70 volunteers, including a board of trustees.
What They Do In the simplest terms, Littlemore gets pre-loved baby essentials from generous Kiwi donors and delivers them directly to families who need them. By partnering with organisations who have the experience and expertise to identify families with the most need, Littlemore can be sure that it is being strategic with its giving and making the most significant impact. It is important to note that Littlemore honours the families it helps by only accepting high-quality baby gear that is safe, clean and in great condition.
How To Get Involved It’s very easy to help Littlemore’s cause. All you have to do is collect a bundle of pre-loved baby essentials such as clothing or gear (as long as everything is in good condition) and take it to one of the charity’s donation drop off spots at Storage King Takapuna or Storage King Grey Lynn.
With no government funding, every private dollar donated to Littlemore’s cause really does make a difference. Those wanting to make a contribution to keeping Kiwi babies warm this winter, can do so here.
It’s the time of year when all we want to do is snuggle into a comfortable chair, eat satisfying food and be cosseted by our surroundings. This extends to dining out, so in anticipation we’ve rounded up the cosiest eateries in town that will make you forget about the outside world — at least for a few hours.
Siso With its warming fireplace, textural finishes and tempting Mediterranean fare, Remuera’s beloved Siso invites diners to unbundle from the cold and settle in. Open for lunch and dinner, Siso’s relaxed yet polished approach to dining makes it a neighbourhood eatery worth crossing town for.
Ponsonby Road Bistro Always consistent, and consistently cosy, Ponsonby Road Bistro is our go-to when a relaxed yet luxurious meal feels like the only remedy for the cold. There’s no time better spent than an afternoon or evening tucked into one of its cushy seats with a wine in hand. We’ll have the confit duck, thanks.
The Lodge Bar & Dining, Apéro.
The Lodge Bar & Dining With hide-covered chairs and blankets galore, Rodd & Gunn’s The Lodge Bar is a warming oasis waiting for you in Commercial Bay. Quite apart from the decor, The Lodge Bar & Dining’s produce-driven menu is a revelation, thanks to the onsite Josper charcoal oven which imbues dishes with a delicious depth of flavour.
Apéro Food & Wine Walking into Karangahape Rd wine bar and eatery Apéro, you’ll instantly feel cocooned in the warmth of the long, brick-walled room. With a menu of simple yet expertly-executed dishes and a comprehensive wine list, it is the ideal spot to while away an hour or three on a cold winter’s night.
Ghost Street, Ortolana.
Ghost Street As soon as this Britomart newbie opened its doors, we knew the subterranean spot would become a go-to over the cooler months. Located underneath Cafe Hanoi (in the former 1885 Basement), the 82-seat space is totally enveloping, inviting you to leave dreary skies behind in favour of bold Chinese flavours, bustling service and a convivial atmosphere.
Ortolana Italian-inspired bistro Ortolana turns on the charm for every one of its patrons, helped along by its cheery space. Sit beneath the distinctive twinkling Monmouth glass lights and dig in to one of the satiating pastas or locally-sourced meat dishes.
Prego Should you arrive when the timing is right, Prego has all the makings of a cosy restaurant experience. This Ponsonby Road stalwart has a rich history, with the many who patiently wait for a table a testament to its popularity. With heaters outside and a cosy, bustling vibe to perfectly complement the big bowls of comforting pasta, Prego is one place we will happily spend our winter nights.
Azabu, The Engine Room.
Azabu Ponsonby When in doubt about dinner plans, Azabu never fails to deliver. An excellent option any time of year, the dark interior and banquette seating proves to be particularly enticing come wintertime. Order the prawn tempura volcano roll and watch the flames flicker as it’s blowtorched until toasty — a tableside flourish that we simply cannot pass up.
Cassia Something about stepping down the stairs into Cassia’s inviting space has us feeling instantly cocooned. Sid Sahrawat‘s acclaimed menu takes diners on a masterful journey of modern Indian cuisine; from its flavourful, delicate snacks to its soul-stirring curries, it’s always a winner.
The Engine Room We always feel at home at Northcote Point establishment The Engine Room, thanks to its familiar, hospitable interior that’s as welcoming as its staff and as enticing as its crowd-pleasing dishes. The twice-baked goat’s cheese soufflé is an icon in its own right, and the steak frites goes down a treat every time.
Landmark occasions like birthdays, engagements, anniversaries and graduations all call for a certain calibre of restaurant. This year, it was Britomart’s Mr Morris that claimed the title of Best Celebration Restaurant, with other honourable mentions going to beloved Ponsonby stalwart Jervois Steak House and Park Hyatt’s Onemata. Commercial Bay’s Ahi also proved popular for its elevated atmosphere and sweeping views, as did Parnell’s Cibo – a time-honoured place for celebration.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
It has been some time since blazers were solely reserved for suiting, with tweaks in tailoring making the simple jacket one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether your shoulder is dropped, sharp or somewhere in between, the right blazer is an utterly chic way to dress up or down an outfit just the right amount.
Pair these perfect pinstripes with jeans and a basic white tee, or for a look more arresting, opt for a double-breasted version with little else on underneath. The right blazer is a timeless addition, and it is one that our editors simply can’t get enough of.
Aside from the usual suspects, here are the blazers we’re currently coveting from the world’s luxury labels, as well as some found a little closer to home.
From the left: HELEN CHERRY RAE PINSTRIPE BLAZER from workshop. Single-breasted pinstripe jacket from Prada. ISABEL MARANT Nevim double-breasted pinstriped crepe blazer from net-a-porter. Herringbone wool jacket from Gucci. Acne Studios Oversized flannel pinstripe jacket fromWorkshop.
From the left: anine bing KAIA BLAZER from Muse Boutique. BOTTEGA VENETA Oversized double-breasted blazer from net-a-porter. Saint Laurent Fall 22. CROPPED TUXEDO BLAZER from balenciaga. CROPPED JACKET IN CHEVRON TWEED from Saint Laurent.
From the left: Louis Vuitton Fall 22. Anine Bing Sonora Blazer from Muse Boutique. ACNE STUDIOS Twill blazer from net-a-porter. helena Double-breasted blazer from Dadelszen. BITE STUDIOS WOOL BLAZER from Workshop.
After work drinks have never looked so good, as Auckland’s newest bar and dining destination opens in the iconic 1 Albert Street building, offering a positively elevated outlook on the city.
Palmer is the final step in the reimagining of this historic site (once West Plaza), which has undergone an impressive transformation over the last few years with help from the original architect, Neville Price. The 1970’s architectural facade has been given a modern facelift and a fit-out suited to more contemporary purposes.
Forming a core part of the Alberts portfolio — currently comprising five locations around Auckland’s CBD and offering aspirational workplaces, hospitality and a private members club — Palmer is promising sophisticated dining akin to something you might find overseas. And after an exciting build-up to its opening, we can tell you that the experience certainly lives up to the hype.
From left: Smoked Kahawai croquettes with seaweed tartare and chives, Bavette steak with black garlic, celeriac and native herbs.
Inspired by the aesthetic of Fred’s in Sydney and The Aviary in New York, Palmer’s fit-out was conceived by renowned Australian studio, ACME (its first project in New Zealand). Taking modernist design cues from the likes of Palm Springs (and aiming to capture a bit of that city’s fun vibe, too) the interior marries a palette of warm, earthy tones with teal and fresh mint greens that breathe life into the sandy Californian tiles, elegantly-curved wooden panels and sumptuous booth seating.
Interiors by ACME.
Whether you’re seeking a cosy, after-work drink or a convivial catch up with friends, Palmer’s inviting interior gives way to a sweeping terrace that provides the perfect alfresco spot to revel in a beautiful afternoon. And even as the sun goes down and the chill sets in, a roaring fire will take centre-stage outdoors, offering night-long warmth for those who choose to indulge in another round.
In fact, another round will be hard to turn down with a drinks menu that harnesses some of the region’s best produce and seasonal flavours. Those seeking an after-work tipple or a nightcap will be able to reach for a curated selection of local beverages and delicious cocktails, that, as Bar Manager Nathan Cooper explains, focus on local and sustainable practices.
“The idea of sustainability that Palmer was designed with, extends to the drinks menu where we source from local suppliers and reduce waste by utilising every part of our ingredients,” Cooper shares. “Patrons of Palmer can look forward to cocktails that embrace seasonal ingredients like Manuka, which is expressed in three unique forms across three cocktails. The Manuka Martini, Kiwi Coffee and Rosie’s (named after the wife of Neville Price) which showcases local gin 1919, Earthbound Manuka Honey, grapefruit, lime and bitters.”
At the helm of Palmer’s culinary offering is James Kenny (ex-Gerome), a New Zealand chef that has made his mark leading esteemed kitchens in both New Zealand and at lauded international restaurants such as Copenhagen’s The Pescatarian and the globally renowned Noma. At Palmer, his food speaks to a more casual, contemporary approach, and will bring elemental, hand-made, seasonal experiences to the table.
“My cooking philosophy has and always will be, to keep it simple. Cook with care and finesse and have respect and understanding for the ingredients you are using,” reflects Kenny.
From left: Kefalograviera cheese with peppered figs, Palmer’s Executive Chef James Kenny.
The end result, a culinary destination with a stunning design and unbeatable outlook, is a place just as suited to after-work drinks as it is to impressing a first date or heading out for a fun night with friends. Thanks to the meticulously considered design, it feels decidedly Sydney-meets-New-York, and we’re only too grateful that it has finally opened its doors.
Opening hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 3pm – 10pm Friday and Saturday, 3pm – midnight Sunday – Tuesday closed
For the last two years, we retreated from international pursuits, with holidays to exotic destinations a long forgotten pleasure. But fear not, because during our absence, an abundance of new resorts have opened, promising to once again inspire the freedom of travel.
One&Only Portonovi.
One&Only PortonoviMontenegro A crown jewel in the Montenegro Riviera, One&Only Portonovi is a divine new opening in Eastern Europe. The stately residence is palace-like in scale, and takes advantage of its spectacular coastline, reminiscent of the Mediterranean and interwoven with delicate fjords. Offering rooms, suites and One&Only’s signature villas, the beautifully-finished accommodation is just the beginning of what’s to come. With four restaurants, the option of private dining and notable wellness experiences, this sublime summer destination is sure to leave you feeling entirely rejuvenated.
Six Senses Ibiza.
Six Senses IbizaSpain Forget any preconceived notions that Ibiza is purely the place one goes to party — there is another side to this island that is focused on calm relaxation and a return to wellbeing. The welcome addition of Six Senses to Ibiza allows visitors a place to sit back and unwind or (if partying has been on the agenda) a place to detox in paradise. More than just somewhere to rest your head; the resort is almost village-like in nature, with an affinity for deep spiritual experiences rooted in the local culture, and plenty of opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the music, art, fashion, wellness and spirituality that has become synonymous with the island.
Kalesma Mykonos.
Kalesma MykonosGreece At home on the cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, Kalesma is a boutique hotel that revives the Mykonian spirit. It is a space where classic Greek tranquillity meets contemporary design and inspiration. Here, accommodations are limited so as to offer exceptional sea views, private heated pools and outdoor spaces for all. Part hotel, part oasis, Kalesma is home to beautiful Mediterranean dining, includes a private chapel for those looking to elope, and lies on the doorstep of some of the world’s most remarkable beaches. The only challenge will be leaving the compound in order to discover them all.
White Pebble Suites Milos.
White Pebble Suites MilosGreece Perched on a cliff on the edge of Milos, on the cusp of the Myrtoan Sea, lies White Pebble Suites — an outpost that has been patiently awaiting the arrival of guests since opening last year. Here, the boutique hotel exists as an ode to Greek Island hospitality and luxury, with an architectural approach that reflects centuries past in a contemporary light. White Pebble Suites is home to a refined wellness menu, with favourites including the poolside massage service, and offers a myriad of adventurous experiences for those wishing to travel further than the resort itself.
Borgo Santandrea Amalfi Coast.
Borgo Santandrea Amalfi CoastItaly No European sojourn would be complete without a stay at the gateway to the Mediterranean — the Amalfi Coast. Borgo Santandrea is a 5-star luxury hotel, carved into the coastline with panoramic views over the sparkling waters. With fewer than 40 rooms, a stay here feels authentic, private and undeniably luxurious, complete with an endless roster of dining experiences and its very own beach club, where spritzes are consumed, a private beach within reach and the dock mere steps away — offering the ocean’s activities on a platter.
A hotly-contested category, this year’s Best for Brunch was almost too close to call — with a number of Auckland’s most popular cafes vying for top spot. In the end, Grey Lynn’s Honey Bones claimed the win for its well-balanced menu and lively vibe. Hot on its heels were Wynyard Quarter go-to Williams Eatery, Grey Lynn’s Ozone Coffee Roasters (long drawing the crowds with its specialty java and classic brunch dishes), Morningside’s neighbourhood favourite, Crave and Newmarket’s The Candy Shop, thanks to its unique take on the brunch we know and love.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
Nestled in the heart of Herne Bay, the beloved-by-locals restaurant Andiamohas been hailed as Auckland’s Best Neighbourhood Eatery. While notable competitors include Parnell’s modern Italian go-to, Non Solo Pizza, Grey Lynn’s Lilian, cult-favourite Ada and cosy Northcote stalwart,The Engine Room, Andiamo is a deserving winner for the way it caters tirelessly to its community, and makes casual midweek dinners as special as romantic evenings out.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
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