Tucked away in a lush, tree-lined pocket of Auckland’s Meadowbank, Meadow has long been a neighbourhood favourite — a place where long lunches drift into golden afternoons, and lively evenings unfold under festoon-lit skies. Now, with a refreshed vision and an updated menu, the beloved restaurant is entering an exciting new era.

Owners Clint and Gina Henry, who first met in London’s Soho House in the early 2000s, have always been drawn to the rhythm of hospitality. “We fell in love in Paris in a Sunday morning club in the Bastille district,” Gina shares. “Like any good Kiwi girl, I imported my husband back to the Motherland. Twenty-five years later, here we are — two teenage boys, running from home to restaurants to football fields.” That dynamic energy has now been channelled into Meadow’s evolution, reimagining the space as a true local — a gathering place for the community.

“Meadow is a fabulous space with a beautiful outdoor garden. There are not many spaces in Auckland like it,” Gina explains. “We want it to be a true local, a part of our community. A space where you come for a glass of champagne to enjoy with friends in the afternoon to beers on a Friday night with the boys.”

The new menu embraces that sense of versatility and ease. “The menu is eclectic — you want to run in on a Wednesday night after work and just feel like a burger? Tick. Or you have some time on a Friday night to get the girls together to share a calamari and a burrata over a spritz? Tick. You are running from the gym and feeling like the best salad that has everything you can imagine in it? Tick.” Thoughtfully curated, the offerings reflect a balance of indulgence and freshness, all with a keen ear to what regulars love.

The drinks, too, have had a refresh, with a focus on seasonal vibrancy. “I love a good marg — so we had to have a few on there. The cucumber with tajin spice is to die for,” she says. “We’ve kicked off our happy hours and are theming them with the seasons. We have Peroni on tap for long lunches in the garden and a specially curated list of wines that Clinton has handpicked.”

The setting itself remains at the heart of the experience. “We want it to be bright and cheerful. We want the menu to reflect the seasons — I know this sounds cliché for a restaurant to say this, but when you are sitting under two big oak trees in the middle of our terrace, it makes you more aware of things changing.” The interiors, an eclectic mix of old and new, reflect that philosophy of evolution. With a thoughtful design eye from a good friend, the space captures a relaxed yet elevated charm.

Beyond the menu and setting, what defines Meadow is its unwavering commitment to hospitality. “Clint and I love the daily grind of running a restaurant, serving our community surrounding us. It all looks so simple — the act of serving in a restaurant. But we are constantly finding things to learn about, whether it’s about a new AI tool on social media or a 50-year-old bottle of whiskey.” That passion is palpable in every detail, from the warm welcome at the door to the buzz of conversation over candlelit tables.

“The space has such a lovely feel to it with its beautiful trees built into the terrace. Great indoor-outdoor flow. At night, with the festoon lights glowing and the buzz of the restaurant music — it’s a special place.” With its thoughtful evolution, Meadow is poised to remain just that — a special place, a local institution, and a home away from home for the community.

Opening hours:
Monday — Sunday, 9am until late

meadowrestaurant.co.nz