Beyond the hustle and bustle of the city’s core is Auckland’s newest dining space, Bistro Saine. Opened in early April, this French-Mediterranean bistro brings an elegant yet approachable dining experience to the city centre. Blending classic French techniques with Mediterranean influences from southern France, Italy and Spain, Bistro Saine is one of three dynamic new venues debuting at 51 Albert Street, alongside Café Etiquette, a charming café and wine bar, and The Henry, a timeless cocktail lounge. Nestled within a meticulously restored heritage building – formerly Dexter and Crozier’s ‘The Motor House’, New Zealand’s first Cadillac importer – Bistro Saine is a cornerstone of the city’s newest boutique hotspots.

Hotel Indigo, photo credit Jonny Valiant

At the core of the menu is a commitment to local, seasonal produce and celebrating top-quality ingredients sourced from single producers. Executive chef Yutak Son, a Korean-born, French-trained culinary expert takes the lead, creating a menu of sharing dishes that feel both timeless and innovative. Farmgate pork croquettes with wakame ketchup, indulgent buttery pasta, steak frites and crispy potato dishes are balanced with fresh seafood and salads. With experience at renowned establishments Daily Bread, Orphans Kitchen, Sidart and Black Estate, Yutak’s approach to French cuisine is both respectful of tradition and refreshingly contemporary. He is joined by an impressive team, including head chef Stevan Bailey, sous chefs Zach Duxfield and Aditya Medon and general manager Joey Hickman. The front-of-house experience is elevated by restaurant manager Pierre Guillot, sommelier Pierre Bernardeau and bar manager Harry Huxley, ensuring impeccable service and world-class beverage pairings.

The visionary behind the Bistro Saine concept is James Ingram, one of Australia’s top hospitality design consultants. His influence on the interiors of Bistro Saine evoke the charm of New York, London and Parisian bistros, featuring arched heritage windows, marble-topped bars and soft elegant lighting.

Open seven days a week for all-day dining, Bistro Saine invites guests to indulge in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. We know the city is ready for this new culinary delight; rich in ambience and French-inspired charm, an unforgettable dining experience awaits. bistrosaine.co.nz