Achieving 30 years in the turbulent Auckland hospitality scene has always been an incredible feat.
However with a particularly challenging environment since the impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns, it’s even more exciting to see a notable Auckland restaurant usher in its fourth decade in business.
This March, upmarket bistro Cibo celebrates that astounding anniversary, marking 30 years since it was established in early 1994 in the Axis Building in Parnell, once the site of an old Nestle chocolate factory. In fitting style for the location known to many as the place to go to celebrate an important milestone, it’s holding a two-night celebration.
A birthday party of sorts, owner Jeremy Turner is marking the occasion by hosting guests on Friday March 22 and Saturday March 23 for a six-course degustation menu, pink champagne, Cru Bordeaux and live entertainment.
Keen to extend the celebrations with a special touch of excitement, the team at Cibo has commissioned a stunning jewellery piece inspired by the pink cherry-blossom decor of the restaurant, and the other floral blooms the dining institution is known for.
Created by Auckland jewellery Nick Von K, a dazzling pink bloom pendant will be auctioned to raise money for the Starship Foundation, helping improve the lives of New Zealand’s seriously sick and injured children.
The bespoke, one-of-a-kind, solid sterling silver bloom is encrusted with over over a thousand sparkling pink crystal cubic zirconias, strung on cultured pearls.
“I was so excited to make this piece which is inspired by the unique extravagance of Cibo,” Von K explains.
“I remember so vividly the interior decor from the times I’ve had the pleasure of dining there. The lush flowers, the pink everywhere, the fabulousness of their busy yet attentive team. I spun all of these elements into the piece to make something deliciously over the top and decadent.”
“There are exactly 1154 CZ stones set into it, each set by hand one by one,” shares the jeweller. “This dedication to detail to present a huge overall impact was also an element I felt reflected the dedication to presentation at Cibo – from their artfully plated food, to the teams outfits and personalities, and the lusher than lush décor.”
The online silent auction closes at 10pm on the final night of their 30th birthday celebration dinner on Saturday March 23. Tickets to the dinner event are available at $375 per person.
