Overview
Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED) announced its new cultural festival Elemental AKL last month. Set to take over Tāmaki Makaurau in July, the festival was developed to make the city a more vibrant and compelling place to visit during the rain-soaked winter. More than 50 events have already been unveiled for the month-long program, including light shows, cultural performances and culinary events.
Now, putting further attention on our city's blossoming food scene, the lineup has been announced for Elemental Feast. More than 100 eateries, from fine dining restaurants to cafes and food trucks, will be involved around the region serving special dishes and menus inspired by the four elements: air, fire, earth and water.
Parnell's Chairman Mao-inspired Chinese restaurant Red Wall 1939 will be serving a fiery braised ox tail; Auckland CBD eatery Culprit is plating up an earth-inspired dish comprising a fermented mushroom waffle and southern fried shiitake with bone marrow butter; chefs at Besos Latinos have created a waka-shaped crispy corn tortilla representing the fusion of Māori and Mexican cultures; while Giapo's interactive Tu Kohatu ice cream draws inspiration from the traditional Māori game where stones are balanced on top of each other to form a tower.
See the full list of Elemental Feast dishes here.
Also on the bill: the Craft'd Wine + Spirits Festival will host more than 40 boutique wine and spirits producers, offering masterclass sessions, food trucks and entertainment. Eat Drink Love Ponsonby includes a series of special events and will see international guests take over spaces along the strip. Fans of Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol and Chanel can participate in themed dining experiences at different Auckland restaurants; and Devonport's 'dining corridor' will host a progressive dinner experience spotlighting native ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Elemental Feast will take place across Tāmaki Makaurau from 1–31 July.
Image: Red Wall 1939.