Bite Size: New Zealand’s Latest in Food and Drink News – May 11, 2023
Words by Jessica-belle Greer · Updated on 16 May 2023 · Published on 12 May 2023
Soul Bar and Bistro is back with a new kitchen and menu
Soul Bar and Bistro has seen many fabulous meals go out from its kitchen, which until recently was more than 21 years old. After a short closure for kitchen renovations, the venue has reopened. The refurb has allowed greater flow for better prep and service, with more space in the pastry section and a few new toys for the chefs to play with. “It is an absolute game changer,” says general manager Olivia Carter. “To say executive chef Gavin Doyle is thrilled would be the understatement of the year.”
A new menu includes crayfish lasagne and a Snickers sundae, but Soul classics remain, including the macaroni cheese and warm chocolate pudding. A Wagyu beef tongue with sweet and sour onion and toum began as an experiment in Doyle’s new pressure cooker. Once he tasted the dish, he decided it must have a place on the new menu. An all-new cocktail menu, created by bar manager Katie Cramphorn, includes a Members Only cocktail (with gin, raspberry and basil), and a new non-alcoholic section, which includes the Un-American (Italian orange, aperitif rosso, tonic, olive).
“Katie took over as bar manager in October last year and has finally been able to make her mark after knowing what the Soul customer wants and seeing the playful side the venue has,” says Carter. “People want to feel special but also want approachable, fun and nothing too complicated – even though it might be behind the scenes.”
Take mum to try the new yum cha menu at East Restaurant
Looking for a spot to treat mum on Mother’s Day? East Restaurant is debuting its first ever yum cha lunch service on May 14. The vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menu includes bang bang shiitake mushrooms, bok choy dumplings, caramelised black pepper tofu and chocolate mochi. The lunch service runs from 12pm until 3pm and will replace East Restaurant’s normal lunch service. Dishes range in price from $6 to $22 and are designed to share. Guests can also celebrate mum with bubbles for $12. Bookings are recommended.
Bar Magda begins a special set menu on Sundays
From May 14, Bar Magda will open on Sundays and will serve up a special Koru Sunday Magda Feast: a share-style two-course menu, including a glass of champagne to start, for $70 per person.
Taste Fankery’s latest sweet treats while shopping at a pop-up
For those who enjoy food as much as fashion, a new pop-up in Auckland – running until May 20 – will satisfy both passions. Local labels Hej Hej , Bronwyn Footwear , and Videris Lingerie will be selling their latest collections in Grey Lynn, while bakery Fankery provides sweet sustenance on Saturdays.
568 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland. May 4 to 20. Thursday to Saturday, 10am–4pm.
