Feriza's Is Bringing a Taste of The Ottoman to Wynyard Quarter

It was last October that the doors opened to Kindred, an all-day eatery from the family behind Sausalito Café and Miss Clawdy. 7/21 Jellicoe Street has seen its fair share of eateries, and restauranteurs the Wiley Boys hoped to break the curse with the opening that recreated the feeling of dining in someone's lounge. The eatery's nine-month run unfortunately suggests otherwise and in its wake leaves a giant head-sized pavlova hole.

Next in line to tackle the address is a restaurant bringing a taste of Turkey's Ottoman empire to the Wynyard Quarter. Feriza's is a gift from restauranteur Alex Isik to his elder sister Feriza, who helped him travel to New Zealand and forge a life within the local hospitality industry. With The Nazar Group, Alex now runs nine establishments in Auckland including Devonport's Devon on the Wharf, Ponsonby's Miss Istanbul, Titirangi's Deco Eatery and New Lynn's Bodrum Kitchen. The Isik's Turkish heritage is proudly showcased in every venue.

The menu at Feriza's is a culmination of the sibling's 20+ years creating Ottoman food, inspired by dishes from their grandmother's cookbook. A modern spin will be put on traditional dishes including the headlining gozleme — a traditional savoury flatbread filled with various toppings. It was the first thing Alex and Feriza learnt how to cook and what ignited their passion for cooking.

Alongside with a mezze-focussed menu, there will be a large emphasis on shared dining. The drinks list will also include cocktails inspired by the Ottoman region, including the Middle Eastern spirit, raki — a drink similar to ouzo but with a higher alcohol content.

Feriza's will open at 7/12 Jellicoe Street, Wynyard Quarter from Tuesday 18 July, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.