Molten - CLOSED

Overview

Molten has become somewhat of an institution for Mt Eden folk who have been frequenting this fine establishment for almost ten years now. But for those that don’t live nearby, it’s definitely worth following the lead of the loyal locals.

Nestled in the heart of the village, the neighbourhood eatery comprises of an intimate 35 seat Restaurant, Wine Bar and Courtyard (as well as a Private Dining Room and Private Lounge) within two adjoining heritage buildings, bursting with character and dating from the 1850’s.The dining room is small and intimate with a clean, contemporary feel and with lovely lighting casting a warm glow and adding to the space’s atmosphere.

The menu is carefully crafted and does well to marry a fine balance of approachable but not ‘everyday’ dishes.  We can’t get past the delicious entrees and end up ordering a rolling feast including oysters, sesame salt & pepper squid w cucumber, peanut relish & chilli honey and the poached tiger prawns with shaved ox tongue, crisp red onion, salsa verde & garlic cream. Finally we sample the pulled confit pork crackling with a salad of heirloom beets & candied walnuts and the hot smoked manuka salmon (smoked out the back) with fennel, pickle chips, apple and mustard. All are perfectly presented and bursting with flavour.

The sides are bold and stand out from the usual broccolini and asparagus, with unique creations including roasted beetroot & caramelised onion tart with toasted cumin yoghurt & dill and ferron black rice saladw ohakune carrots, pickled raisins, medjool dates, nuts and seeds.

Staff are attentive and knowledgeable and self confessed beer and wine enthusiasts who offer up excellent recommendations on request.

They’ve done a very clever job with the wine menu, designing it to be as user-friendly and informative as possible. It is also “fundamentally based on value for money” – whether you are ordering from their  “under $50” section, or drinking one of the worlds’ great wines at near-retail prices. And its extensive, with over 300 labels and my favourite part, an easily digestible section on wine matching with the menu. A great conversation starter and perfect for lovers of great food and wine.

With great service, flawlessly executed food and a wine list to rival all others, it’s easy to see why Molten has become such a popular fixture and endured the Auckland restaurant scene.