All the best places to dine during New Zealand Fashion Week (in Auckland)
Because it involves both eating and being fashionable, there’s just something about it that makes us feel like we’re on a mini holiday. We’re thinking al fresco dining (byo light jacket), sun-filled indoor spaces, afternoon cocktails, and the most covetable and memorable meals.
Cassia
We’ve gushed about Cassia over and over again, and this restaurant continues to blow us away with their flavour-packed menu and ambience. Chef Sid Sahrawat and his incredible team continue to celebrate India’s rich and complex food heritage through a more modern lens without dulling down on the flavour or spice. It’s the perfect restaurant to end the evening on. The service – top-notch. The space – warm, cosy, and non-pretentious. A couple of quick tips: always get the set menu, and always make reservations. Highly recommend adding their pani puri and roasted carrot dishes to your list.
5 Fort Lane
Saxon-Parole
A visit to an oyster and champagne restaurant is just the sort of decadence we need after a month of cold snap and no future travel itinerary in sight. Did I mention how beautiful this space is? Soak in all the sun and enjoy the afternoon pre or post-NZFW show.
Highly recommend the crudités of 16 different garden veggies served raw with muhummara and babaganoush. I am not a fan of raw veggies, but this is high on my list of things to eat here. And the seafood platter, of course.
P.S: they have a set menu for $55 with a glass of champagne for restaurant month in August.
Commercial Bay Level 2/172 Quay Street
Ortolana
Looking for a great spot to brunch or lunch between shows with a bit of shopping? Enter Ortolana. You can sit in the modern courtyard area with a glass of wine and Jerusalem artichoke Tortellini and enjoy a bit of people watching and sunshine. If it gets chilly, they will warm you up with their fluffy blankets and outdoor heating. Tres bien!
33 Tyler Street
Amano
If you're craving an Italian-inspired fare, Amano is your best bet. Sometimes you just need a big plate of delicious hand-made pasta and a dessert to end a big week on, and Amano hits all the spots. But be sure to make a booking!
66–68, Tyler Street, Britomart Place
Kingi
The Hotel Britomart’s Kingi is said to be where Soho meets Le Marais, which goes without explaining its cool and elegant charm. Wind down with cocktails and plenty of sharing plates in their comfy courtyard and outdoor space. It’s a wonderful all-day spot for a hearty breakfast, a long lunch, an appetising dinner, or anything in between.
Tuawhiti Lane, 29 Galway Street
Tanuki’s Cave
A bit of an institute, Tanuki’s Cave has been around for as long as I can remember. It’s a yakitori bar, which means you can eat as little as you like. The ambience is relaxed and cosy. A short walk from the main shows this year, it’s a great place to stop for a quick post-show meal.
319 B Queen St, central city
The Kimchi Project
We'll always nod along happily at the prospect of eating bao buns al fresco. The Kimchi Project, nestled on Lorne Street, does a scrumptious Korean-inspired menu and has wonderful and large outdoor seating. Another great spot at walking distance from the show venue.
20 Lorne Street
Alma
A space that “feeds the soul, lifts the spirit”, which also happens to be the meaning of the name Alma. Dig into a menu that’s inspired by Moorish (North African and Arabic) influences from the South of Spain. The interiors and space feel timeless and elegant. Bon appétit.
130 Quay Street
