What’s Hot

There’s lots going on at Takapuna’s “social kitchen” and “larger than life local” – The Elephant Wrestler. And lots more planned. Owner Steve Shute says the team has a really exciting summer coming up. New group dining initiatives will “make for some fun and affordable nights out”, and  2018 hit events like The Rib Joint Pop-Up and Lip Sync Battles will return. But before that, December is all about sharing. Menu items already proving popular are “Dragon Babies”, small plate selections, curated to be a fusion of Asian flavours. “You have to try the Coconut Chicken and the Pork Belly bites,” he enthuses. “Honestly, these are amazing dishes.” In January, you’ll find more new sharing menus (“great value menus designed for any style of light meal catch-ups”)

Zomer – a friendly local eatery Zomer is a true local eatery; a café that welcomes locals like friends, as well as catering to the many visitors attracted by the proximity of Takapuna beach. Matt Jacobi, barista, and manager Saul Stevens Manager Saul Stevens says not only is Zomer owned by Takapuna locals, it is also staffed entirely by people who live locally. Better still, it has a philosophy of returning 70% of profits to the staff, paid as a three-monthly bonus. “We’re not in a position to pay the living wage,” says Saul, “but we can do this.” As he points out, those extra dollars go back into the community in one way or another – and it means Zomer attracts and keeps a