Taylors on Hurstmere has become a favourite bar and eatery for Takapuna locals over the past (almost) four years. The welcoming manner and hospitality of owner Steve Taylor is what people love and come back for time and again. Steve has been part of the Hurstmere Road dining scene for many years, having worked close by managing another restaurant before opening Taylor’s on Hurstmere, when John Ingle decided to retire and close the his popular Pinot Plus eatery. Channel Mag's Aidan Bennett went along for dinner (he paid for) during February.
“I want to say thank you to everyone for their tremendous support since we opened,” said Steve Taylor when asked about his key messages for Channel Magazine readers. “Especially over the last year that has been challenging, but our customers keep coming back. We’re looking forward to celebrating our fourth birthday in July this year."
My wife and I were joined for dinner during February by two friends who only live a stone's throw away from Taylors and call it their local. It was a lovely summer evening, meaning we could dine alfresco and make the most of the indoor-outdoor flow of the place. It’s also a great place to people watch, those walking by, biking or driving.
While Taylor’s has an excellent (and very affordable) food menu. It’s also very popular with locals to meet for a drink and light snack. Steve is very knowledgeable with his wine and drinks menu – a menu that is extensive. There are regular wine tasting nights and quiz nights which return for 2021 in March. The Veuve Clicquot Happy Hour is on every evening between 5pm and 7pm and a brand new alfresco outdoor setting also arrives in March to make the outdoor area even more inviting!
When we go to Taylor’s we’re inclined to take Steve’s advice on both food and drink choices, and that was the case in February. The food menu is designed to be shared. We started with half a dozen Clevedon oysters, chilli prawns, chicken liver pate with orange and thyme, and beetroot and goats cheese Arancini balls. Intended to be the first course, but these went a long way to fulfilling our appetites. Then we finished off with lamb and mint meatballs and Taylors' famous Tequila Chicken. The guys managed to sneak in some shoestring fries as well!
I’m a beer drinker, so enjoying a cold one at Taylors is always a pleasure with a great range of tap, bottled and craft beer. My choice in February was Tuatara Pilsener on tap. Those who love wine really enjoy Steve Taylor’s knowledge and range. As it was summer, our team started with a Peregrine Rosé before moving on to an Amisfield Pinot Noir and a Duck Point Merlot respectively. Steve’s wine selection is comprehensive – including six sparkling varieties – and very well priced. His cocktails are also popular with regulars.
We decided to pass on the dessert as we were all more than satisfied. But if my good wife hadn’t been there I could have been easily tempted by the Chocolate and Jelly Brownie or Raspberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake!
If you haven’t experienced one of Takapuna’s very best ‘locals’ – Taylors on Hurstmere – then do it. With great weather in March there is no better time. Might see you there!
Keep an eye on Steve’s Taylors on Hurstmere Facebook page and website for details of upcoming wine tasting and quiz nights. Taylors on Hurstmere is also a great place for private functions with the bespoke bar that can cater for any requirements. And there's no venue charge.
Taylors on Hurstmere, 168 Hurstmere Road Takapuna. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 3pm till late. For reservations phone
09-489-9510 or email taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com.
Visit: www.taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
