A new five-star hotel has opened its doors in Auckland this week, and with it comes the return of beloved SkyCity eatery (and Auckland institution) The Grill. Now with executive chef Touvai Poloniati at the helm, this welcome reincarnation, set within Horizon by SkyCity, offers a refined take on New Zealand’s finest steak and seafood, approached through a contemporary lens — with a focus on ingredients sourced locally.
While The Grill superfans (a cohort which we here at Denizen very much belong to) will be pleased to learn that the eatery doesn’t deviate too far from its predecessor, this new iteration does see a few welcome changes, bringing the ever-iconic eatery into the here-and-now.
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One of The Grill’s defining factors is the considerable emphasis the eatery places on sustainability — a commitment those at the helm of The Grill take very seriously indeed. Chef Touvai Poloniati and his team will collaborate closely with local artisans, fishermen, and farming families to ensure the best quality produce and best possible sourcing practices are upheld, resulting in some of the country’s best fare (we all know how exceptional fresh, local produce is).
This emphasis on quality is instantly observed on the menu, which sees the welcome return of classics like the infamous Beef Wellington for two and miso hollandaise — an essential accompaniment to just about anything, served alongside inventive new takes designed to excite the palate and showcase the best of New Zealand — from the land to the sea.
New Zealand beef, lamb, and seafood feature heavily on the menu, much of which is cooked over the eatery’s Montague grill, while elsewhere you’ll find Wild Venison Tartare with smoked egg yolk from the Cold Bar, Cazador Charcuterie, an incredible Seafood Tower, and an ever-changing fish of the day served with mussel butter and creamed brussels.
Complementing the extensive menu, hand-selected wines from New Zealand’s top vineyards are set to enhance the dining experience, while an inventive edit of cocktails runs the gamut from party-starters to sophisticated sippers. When dining at The Grill, make sure to carve out some time to grab a drink by the cosy fireplace before or after dinner.
If a special occasion is on the cards, the private dining room, perfect for up to 12 guests, is a sublime spot within which to entertain a crowd. Here, you’ll find a bespoke menu on offer, curated with the particular needs of larger gatherings in mind, and an extensive drinks list sure to inspire indulgence and set a convivial tone. There’s also a private ensuite just off the dining room, making the experience all the more seamless.
With a firm commitment to quality, a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, and a spacious outdoor courtyard offering a sublime spot to end the day, drink in hand, this new iteration of The Grill is set to fill the void in Auckland’s dining scene left by its predecessor. Making its triumphant return a welcome one indeed.
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, from 5pm until late
skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/the-grill
The Grill
At Horizon by SkyCity
85 Hobson Street
Auckland
