The newest addition to Auckland’s vibrant Viaduct Harbour dining scene has been revealed by QT Auckland as ‘Esther’ – a signature restaurant and bar to be curated by the hotel’s Creative Director of Food and Beverage, Chef Sean Connolly.
Esther will be positioned on the hotel’s ground floor and will feature 98 indoor seats, 21 of which will be at the bar, along with 16 al fresco seats.
Under the direction of the hotel’s Executive Chef, James Laird, Esther will feature a menu of authentic Mediterranean dishes boasting flavours from Spain, Morocco and Southern France. Produce will be locally sourced, including daily-caught local sustainable seafood, with many dishes completed tableside via a trolley service immediately prior to serving.
Esther will lead the hotel’s F&B offensive and will sit alongside the ‘Rooftop at QT’ bar on the sixth floor, promoting views over the harbour and superyachts which can be regularly seen at berth. The rooftop bar will feature a strong cocktail menu and Mediterranean tapas menu, led by Bar Manager, Roberto Giampaolo.
Connolly said the QT brand resonates with his personal style as a chef, adding that he has had his eye on working with the brand for some time.
“Pioneers in breaking down the stigma of ‘hotel restaurants’, QT is a champion for amazing quality and luxury while celebrating individuality,” he said.
“Seeking creative freedom, there was no better fit for me to take my career to the next level while expressing my own personal style and joining a renowned stable of culinary talent.”
QT Auckland General Manager, Doran Whaite, said he was honoured to be bringing Sean’s culinary expertise into the fold.
“His international experience coupled with his knowledge and passion for Auckland’s local market will set Esther apart from anything else in the city,” he said.
“We’re also thrilled to pair our strong culinary offering with the talented Roberto Giampaolo as Bar Manager at Rooftop at QT.”
QT Auckland is on track to open in November and will become the tenth location in the QT Hotels stable across Australia and New Zealand.