Carla adds some ‘double C’ glamour to our little team and we’re very grateful she’s in Auckland right now.
Sara wanted to learn more about her favourite European hangouts, secret cocktails and accessorisation.
Carla, you were living in Paris, London and Amsterdam and then Covid hit…
Yes, I came home for 2 weeks to see family and I’m still here. I do miss the infinite possibility, inspiration and energy of Europe. But despite the nostalgia, being in NZ means freedom because we can still do everything we want!
Since coming back, I have also been reminded of how open and supportive NZ is of the creative side-hustle. This is pretty cool, and means there are always new things, events and places popping up.
Speaking of places, I’m going to get you to list a few Euro city favourites. We can’t get to them right now so it’s a little excruciating but we can dream…
In Paris eat at Malro (exceptional food) and Pink Mama (good food and so highly instagram-able). I can’t remember the names of all the bars, I was obviously too consumed with people-watching! Park up and observe- art is all around.
My London low-key favourite was Nopi (Ottolenghi, need I say more). Clarette for rainy afternoons sipping on Sancerre and sketching, and an exhibition that I still think about is Basquiat’s ‘Boom for Real’ at the Barbican.
In Amsterdam I loved Entrepot- a tight daily menu highlighting local produce and a handwritten wine list of 150+ that they simply cross out and add to as stocks ebb and flow.
Go to Bar Fisk a bijoux seafood bar for great food, and even better waiters.
I’d recommend the Museum Voorlinden for an immersive and inspiring experience. Even a non-art enthusiast will love it.
These places look fun. And I like the idea of sketching in a bar. What does one wear? How does one accessorise? And should your outfit dictate your choice of drink?
A cocktail is really just another accessory. It’s got to match your outfit and your mood.
So well said. You don’t drink martinis at the soccer clubrooms. (Well I don’t)
I don’t go to soccer clubrooms as a habit. But I’d never rule it out.
Wise words. So finally, tell us about an ideal gin drinking scenario.
Right now, a hotel bar. Some delicious olives and roasted nuts. Good conversation. Maybe an off-menu cocktail.
It’s true you’ve introduced me to always ordering cocktails off-menu and usually a Hugo Spritz. How could I not know this was a thing?
I thought everyone knew the Hugo Spritz. Ask next time, it’s the sign of a good bar……
