16. Everyone's favourite Auckland restaurant is opening for lunch
Plus, I made really good salad recipe that's perfect for any occasion, and a fun new shirt project I found on Instagram
While at times Auckland can feel woeful and wilfully abandoned, this summery weekly summary exists as a reminder that there is much to look forward to in this little urban oasis — and beyond.
From restaurants that attempt to rival the global greats, to long lunches and spring produce-inspired salads (like the recipe I’ve noted below), I truly believe this city will never cease to excite me.
I’ve also found some art classes for friends seeking a creative outlet (both near and far) and discovered the perfect baggage solution that genuinely might respond to your commuter woes. (Tube girlies, this solution is for you too.)
I just want to end in reflection that although it’s been a hard and heavy week, e hoa, there is bliss to be found in this sunshine, the long weekend, and the small joys of wherever you are in this world.
All my love to you,
Tess xxx
What To Eat:
Gilt Brasserie: This latest Josh Emett venture opened this week — and as someone who genuinely finds Onslow utterly overrated, this restaurant is worth celebrating, beyond the industry hype. I believe the vision is bistro-esque, as many as there are these days, but my suggestion is to wait a couple of weeks for the dust to settle. The venue itself is stunning but simply just far too loud.
Springtime Salad: I made a pretty bloody good salad on Saturday night — if I’m allowed to say so — that has been fuelling me all week. While I don’t have a recipe to reference it’s still worth trying. Toss some crispy, buttery lettuce and plenty of diced chives in a bowl with dijon mustard, creme fraiche (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a little salt and pepper to taste. I just eyeball the measurements, it’s quite hard to falter.
Osteria Uno: I’ve been really, really waiting for this one to open (you seriously have no idea how long) and by all accounts it is finally about to, somewhat. You’ll find this little trattoria adjacent to the perennially busy Duo Eatery in Birkenhead. It’s another one from Jordan Macdonald, who, alongside Duo, was previously involved in Culprit, Lowbrow and the likes. For now it’s opening as part of a Stella Artois activation (you can find out more about the ridiculously affordable menu and nab the final few tickets here), with the promise that the destination will officially open in the weeks to come.
Lilian Lunches: Latest news on the block is at that this most revered neighbourhood eatery, lunches are now on the menu. There’s been no indication of a shake up in the offering, more-so just a new destination to see in those sunny Friday afternoons ahead.
What To Wear:
Utility by Yu Mei: A new addition to this locally grown leather goods label, Utility is a chic nod to the versatility of those customisable compartment bags making the rounds on Tiktok. Using recycled nylon, the base collection comprises a couple of totes, plus some pretty little inserts and pouches that add an element of organisation for busybodies like me. (The supplements are also designed to tuck into your existing mainline products too.) Kudos to Yu Mei for this thoughtful design.
Hagon Workroom: I fell upon this cute reworking project by way of its founder, editor Edwina Hagon. Here she reimagines old shirts and fabrics into decidedly androgynous shapes that feel wistful and hopeful for the days ahead. Made in Sydney, these can (and should) be worn anywhere.
What To Do:
London St Art Club: Lately I’ve found myself with a hankering for a new hobby — something to do wholeheartedly for the joy of it with little capitalist intent. This cool local art club is hosting a still life drawing class, wines included, which has been on my agenda for some time. Bookings are essential, here. Here’s a class at The National Gallery in London that looks cool too, as does this one in Sydney.
Te Uru Exhibitions: At this Titirangi gallery, exhibiting artists have drawn inspiration from a forest under threat for their latest collection, which exists in harmony with te ao Māori. A few pieces worth collecting too, for the amateur collectors among us, or anyone with an eye for the enduring appeal of the environment. (There’s also a curators talk on November 11, and a couple of workshops that look like a fun place to play too.)
Annabel’s Radio with Crayon: For my party people, here’s a fun Friday night planned that promises groovy music and plenty of pet nat. Given that it’s Annabels, there’s sure to be some cool girl vibes going on — but Crayon does know how to throw a really great party. And I like the place, so it’s a sure thing from me.