Serving a slice of Auckland’s history
Auckland is known to many as one of the most livable cities in the world. This comes as no surprise as it has so much going for it, including the fact that around almost every corner lies yet another spectacular water view.
Our home town easily holds its own amongst other cities with a wealth of stunning water views — think Stockholm, Dubrovnik, Cape Town, San Francisco — in almost all ways, except one: when it comes to a depth of history, we are often short changed. But not always.
The other day my partner and I had the pleasure of dining at Mikano, Auckland’s premier seafood restaurant, conveniently located at the dock end of Parnell. The experience was all that it should be: perfect service, exquisite food, and an extensive wine list. Stand-out features were plentiful. The view was unforgettable, as was the restaurant interior. If you are after a bit of history, a fascinating insight into life in Auckland past and present, you will find it here.
Mikano Seafood Restaurant offers you a little slice of Auckland’s history plated up in the most delightful manner.
Mechanics Bay has an interesting story in that it was New Zealand’s first centre of international aviation, where flying boats landed during the 1930’s and where international flights from Britain connected for the Auckland-to-Sydney leg. Pan Am flights from America via Hawaii also landed at Mechanics Bay. Now most of those flights are handled elsewhere, though the busy heliport section is alive and well. The likes of Inflite Charters, Helelink, Westpac Rescue and even the police helicopter use this area as their base. And it is this action one is privy too when dining at Mikano. It is fun, interesting and a definite conversation piece.
On windy days, watch windsurfers and kite surfers take advantage of conditions, and of course every day – no matter what – there is the view across the harbour to quaint and charming Devonport.
Mikano restaurant has been around for many years now. Even so, the restaurant interiors are pristine, with a décor that underlines the area’s aviation history. Actual airplane wings are used for wall and ceiling coverings, the dull sheen of the aluminum made more interesting by the regular use of rivets. Visible fuselage frames with their Swiss-cheese-like holes are used to give the building strength. The wooden floor of the restaurant is a warm chestnut colour, pock marked by years of stiletto abuse. Simply wonderful!
Light fittings though new, enhance the steely look of the place. And the mirrors and huge glass windows at the front of the restaurant simply add to the expansive feeling of space.
Tables are decked in starched white, waiters are dressed in traditional black with crisp white shirts, and chairs are solid oak. Even the menus have that taste of times gone by with both three- and four-course meals on offer – similar to the old fashioned table d’hôte menus. A seven-course degustation (wine pairing) menu is offered for a mere $55, and there is a separate dessert and breakfast menu should this be your preference. Dishes are traditional, tasty and beautifully served. Wine is mostly from New Zealand vineyards, plus there is a comprehensive cocktail, beer and spirit offering.
Mikano Seafood Restaurant offers you a little slice of Auckland’s history plated up in the most delightful manner. Parking is easy, and booking is advised. This is a great dining venue for couples, corporates and family groups.
Bookings for Valentine’s Day dining still available. If you are after a special experience to celebrate your love for one another, look no further. Give Mikano a call today.
info@mikano.co.nz
09 309 9514
1 Solent St, Mechanics Bay, Auckland
Opening Times:
Monday to Sunday
Lunch: 11.30am to 5:00pm
Dinner: 5.30pm till late
