This month, we’re excited to introduce a new chapter: The Sydney Connection now exclusively offers Private Tours, immersing guests in Sydney's vibrant dining scene with tailored experiences for you and your loved ones. We’re also thrilled to welcome Armslength on Kellett Street to our Potts Point dining experience, enhancing our exploration of inner-city Sydney. A recent trip to Auckland featured outstanding meals at Daphne’s Taverna and Bar Magda. As the holiday season approaches, we wish you peace, joy, and the pleasure of sharing memorable meals with loved ones.
New Player | arms length
We are happy to announce our newest addition, Arms Length to our Potts Point Tour.
Formerly of Redfern, the Armslength crew has jumped the Oxford Street border, to be part of the constantly evolving Kings Cross Quarter drinking & dining scene.The new operators - located in the former home of Dean's - have maintained the beautiful fig tree shaded courtyard in the front of the grand terrace facade, with ambient fairy lights setting the tone. The comfy NYC leather booths line the hall to the sexy back bar.
Head Chef Keno Perlas, drawing on his experience at Bentley Group's Monopole and Neil Perry's Margaret, joins forces with Executive Chef Jeffrey Sue, formerly of Rockpool, Ormeggio, and China Doll. Together, this accomplished duo has crafted a crowd-pleasing, Italian-inspired menu, reminiscent of their sister venue, NIna’s, in Darlinghurst. We will be enjoying our entree course with a glass of wine, in either the lovely courtyard or in the grandly proportioned dining room.
Come at us Summer!
AUCKLAND DINING | Daphnes Taverna
Our family gathering was hosted at Daphne’s Taverna, conveniently nestled in the vibrant heart of Ponsonby Road. This charming establishment features a warehouse-style space adorned with soaring white beams, soft ambient lighting, and an impressive Mediterranean open kitchen that overlooks the expansive and lively dining room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who enter.
We certainly made a right choice when we all agreed on the shared set menu, which offered a rich array of Mediterranean flavours. Standout hits included: the delicious Halloumi Fritters, perfectly complemented with honey, oregano, and a hint of chilli; the Ricotta Gnocchi tossed with fresh spinach, rich Gorgonzola, and crunchy walnuts, along with a classic Roasted Lamb Shoulder that was simply irresistible. The menu had a nostalgic quality that reminded us very much of The Apollo in Sydney, a favourite of ours back home.
Co-owners, husband and wife duo Joost and Clare van den Berg, have successfully opened several beloved restaurants in Auckland over the years. Daphne’s, which opened its doors in March 2021, was inspired by the couple's travels throughout Europe and wanting to bring a taste of those experiences back to their own community.
AUCKLAND DINING | Bar Magda
We also took the opportunity to check out the fabulous Bar Magda, with a girlfriend one night. Conveniently located below street level on Cross Street, just behind the bustling Karangahape Road, a Te Reo Maori name that translates to "the ridge".
This hidden venue was created and is operated by the talented Filipino New Zealander Carlo and his business partners, an atmospheric space that truly has a vibrant and engaging vibe.
We dined exceptionally well on the shared Filipino cuisine using Aotearoa produce menu. Sampling a variety of exquisite dishes, and loving our carefully crafted and innovative cocktails. Highlights included: chicken and duck parfait with smoked cherries on brioche; roasted cauliflower with butternut pumpkin and Utau and burnt coconut and Hawkes Bay Lamb ribs with ‘Pyanggang’, soft herbs and green sambal.
The space is thoughtfully divided into two distinct areas: a sexy, art-filled corner located below the staircase, which can serve as a bar or dining area. And a minimalist dining room that features a stunning, glittering stripped-back brick wall.
Our waiter was a knowledgeable, charming, and stylish woman who enhanced our dining experience. Carlo even popped over with our delightful meringue-based dessert, and we enjoyed a great chat about his food inspirations.
We can't wait for our next visit to this gem of a place.