Nestled within Sofitel Auckland, located within the vibrant Viaduct Harbour precinct, sits Grape & Olive — an intriguing new tapas bar bringing the delicious flavours of the Med to the city. And just as the Sofitel offers a unique oasis where exceptional hospitality and thoughtful design collide, Grape & Olive promises to further this ethos — bringing a taste of convivial, casual and considered Southern European dining to a striking setting.
In the eatery’s elegant dining room, you’ll find Mediterranean-influenced tapas-style fare on offer, approached with a contemporary lens. With a strong focus on showcasing seasonal produce, diners can expect a diverse selection of dishes designed for sharing and savouring — each crafted with care, honouring both the freshness of the produce and quality of the ingredients. From Te Kouma Bay Oysters to Truffle Fries with Grana Padano, Le Fromage Cheese & Charcuterie, and Bostock Chicken Liver Pâté with crunchy French baguette, here, the menu reflects the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean region — incorporating exceptional local ingredients to deliver something distinct. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, Grape & Olive promises something to satisfy every appetite.
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When it comes to the all-important drinks offering, the options are vast and varied, but the pièce de résistance is the cocktail list which invites revellers to embark on a sensory journey around the globe. The signature cocktails are meticulously crafted to evoke the exotic flavours and vibrant cultures of their origins — from the tropical shores of the Caribbean to the smoky mezcal distilleries of Mexico, each cocktail tells a story through its unique blend of ingredients. For instance, the Mai Tai features spiced rum, adding a Caribbean twist a classic, while the Oh Papi! incorporates tequila infused with smoked chipotle, delivering a bold and smoky flavour reminiscent of traditional Mexican libations. Additionally, the Bora Bora combines white rum and Blue Curacao with pineapple and coconut, transporting diners to the sun-kissed beaches of the South Pacific.
Elsewhere, there’s an extensive selection of wine on offer, carefully curated to showcase the best of New Zealand’s renowned Waiheke Island vineyards, as well as fine wines from French origins (paying homage to Sofitel’s heritage). Here, the focus is on excellence, offering a diverse range of varietals and vintages for every occasion — be it the perfect pairing while dining or simply a delicious drop to savour while unwinding.
The space itself is laid-back, yet refined, with interiors crafted to evoke the tranquil ambiance and natural beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Here, you’ll find mosaic wall tiles that nod to the intricate craftsmanship found in traditional Mediterranean architecture, alongside hand-drawn wallpapers inspired by the vibrant colours and patterns of Southern European landscapes — with cosy blue and green hues conjuring a sense of calm; thoughtful furnishings, and and warm lighting, with all elements coming together to create a welcoming and inviting space that transports guests to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea.
Whether you’re dining indoors or soaking up the waterfront views from the sun-soaked terrace, enjoying a quick post-work drink or settling in for an evening of tasty tapas and convivial cocktails, at Grape & Olive, the vibrancy and tranquillity of the Mediterranean collide, bringing an elevated escape to central Auckland.
Grape & Olive
21 Viaduct Harbour Avenue
Auckland CBD
