Here at Verve, we like to think of ourselves as content, cocktail, cuisine and caffeine connoisseurs. So, naturally, there are a few places we are absolutely smitten with that all manage to meet our needs, no matter the occasion.
As the days get longer, warmer and brighter, we find ourselves wanting and wanted to mix and mingle with our friends a lot more. With the plethora of places available in Auckland, it can sometimes be quite tough to pick where to go. A diverse drink menu, a great atmosphere and an indoor-outdoor flow for the venue are always solid starters. Definitely fans of the laneway or courtyard vibes to soak up or send off the sun. With all of that in mind, here are a few of our favourite establishments.
Candy Shop
2/8 Osborne Street
021 259 7873
Let’s get the pun out of the way: we recommend you go to The Candy Shop, we also highly recommend you get a taste of what they’ve got. Which happens to be, well, a lot. Naturally, there are a few sweet treats on the menu. However, The Candy Shop has more of a ‘kid in a candy store meets adulthood’ feel. The menu houses elements of cuisines like Kiwi, Asian and Italian, yet makes sure to add intriguing twists like croffles (croissant waffles) and Korean fried chicken. Visually, the combinations of stone, wood, a plethora of plants and natural light give the venue an invigorating feel, as does the epic alleyway courtyard. Whether you’re looking for a neat spot to have a coffee, an afterwork drink or for somewhere that caters to the fussy friend or dietarily diverse – The Candy Shop is guaranteed to tick all the boxes, and more!
Cotto Restaurant
375 Karangahape Rd
cotto.co.nz
This industrial looking restaurant is located on the ever cool and mysterious Karangahape Road. Cotto is serious flavour fuelled decadence. Serving authentically made Italian cuisine and some rousing additions like spinach, goats’ cheese and sage dumplings, it has quickly become a local favourite. Although the menu is utterly moreish, Cotto has perfectly balanced the portion sizes that won’t break the bank. It’s also vegan and vegetarian friendly. The venue has just the right subdued lighting to transition with ease from day to evening, as it opens at 5pm. The cocktail menu focuses on simple citrus classics and the wine list accentuates the stunning menu with a mixture of New Zealand and Italian wines. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable with any menu queries. Due to the venue’s popularity, it’s best to book in advance for larger groups, although they insist small walk-ins are welcome.
East Street Hall
5 East St
east-street-hall.com
From the founders of the beloved Annabel’s Wine Bar and Bar Celeste, East Street Hall is the latest stellar addition to the Auckland hospitality scene. East Street Hall is a multicultural celebration, based in the old community hall that was once the Samoan Church on East Street. You’ll experience flavoursome Israeli food with a twist of Aotearoa’s seasonal produce, alongside art, culture, music and a real community feel. The hall itself has a cool contemporary canteen look and the courtyard is bathed in sunlight. I couldn’t tell you the official name of the wall colour, it’s very reminiscent of a red sand dune in the perfect light mixed with a chalky terracotta hue. Whatever it is, it’s heavenly. The cocktails have some delightful herbal citrus twists, almost medicinal in the most refreshing and invigorating way, with plenty of colour and tantalising tastes. The natural wines, craft and classic beers also really complement the menu.
Gemmayze Street
183 Karangahape Rd
gemmayzestreet.co.nz
Gemmayze Street is a 130-year journey artfully expressed through the mediums of family, love and food. How would we describe it? The perfect amalgamation of a hidden gem and amazing. Gemmayze-ing. The menu is a glorious entwining of the seasons of Aotearoa, with the flavours of Lebanon. Each dish is artistically flourished with garnishes that enhance the meals. The portions are generous and great for sharing. The menu caters to most dietary requirements with ease, and the food is incredibly healthy whilst still making one feel like they’ve indulged on rich fare. There’s a lovely earthy vibe in the actual restaurant’s interior, they favour natural light and comfy yet eclectic furniture. The cocktails also deserve accolades, they both highlight the dining menu and stand well alone. The thyme margarita with elderflower was definitely a highlight, and the raspberry blushed arak is almost too beautiful to drink. Almost.
Ozone Coffee Roasters
1/18 Westmoreland St West
ozonecoffee.co.nz
When most of us hear the word ozone, the protective layer surrounding the earth, shielding us from the harsh sun springs to mind. A good cup of coffee can do that too. It can sober, stimulate or soothe us, in preparation for whatever life presents. Naturally, Ozone Coffee Roaster’s provides rich site roasted coffee; alongside an expansive drink menu covering all the things one could want throughout the day. Whether your vice is caffeine, soda, juice, kombucha, cocktails, beer or wine – Ozone has just the thing. Although we recommend Ozone for any day of the week, their weekend brunch is a definite must! Generously set between 7am-4pm, you’ll find the usual brunch line-up with some delightfully tasty twists, sourced from the curious looking jars of homemade pickles and fermentations. There are plenty of seating options available to cater to your needs, from comfy booths to small tables to sections and stools around the kitchen or bar.
