Bar Céleste

The Verdict

Is there anywhere else in Auckland where you can get shucked oysters at 2am? We think not. So if you want the best of both worlds, where luxury meets party, head to K’ Road's new venture, Bar Céleste. 

A French-inspired neo-bistro that is sure to have your taste buds tingling and your toes tapping way into the night. Nestled in what used to be Revel Cafe, Céleste has brought a sophisticated party scene to the heart of K' Road and we’re definitely feeling it. 

After the success of their popular restaurant pop-up La Pêche, where Nick Landsman and Emma Ogilvie took over local restaurants to dish up some seasonal shared plates, they decided to open their very own eatery, where French fare is at the heart of it. 

Now, on the topic of fare. Céleste's menu certainly doesn’t disappoint, at first glance you see it is indeed French-inspired but it’s not French food as you know it. Forget about frogs legs and think about lamb tartare, capers, red onions, radish and crispy fried shallots or pommes paillasson served with creme fraiche and chives. Miam!

The menu showcases the best of New Zealand seasonal ingredients, which means no week is ever the same—which also means you can go back again and again and it will never get old. The best part is that Céleste sources all their ingredients from small suppliers to make sure great-quality produce is served from pan to plate. 

Designed for sharing, grab some mates and a selection of plates and the conversation will be flowing all night long. A must-try dish has to be the fresh trevally cru, served in sichuan oil, fermented chilli and tomato. It’s the perfect summer plate, full of colour and fresh flavours that will bring your palate to life. As the French would say it’s délicieux. 

If you head to Céleste for dinner, we urge you to come back later on in the evening, as the bright lengthy space will be transformed into more of a bar feel— the drinks will be flowing, music booming and plenty of late-night bites will be dished up to keep you going. Sink your teeth into the filet o’ market fish and the garlic butter frites, you won’t be disappointed. 

Céleste will be dishing out all the goods, especially the good vibes. So, if you’re after somewhere to tantalise your tastebuds yet party way into the night, then this hidden gem has got you covered. Bon Appétit! 

Image credit: Wono Kim