Beast & Butterflies

The Verdict

A magical thing happens when Asian food collides with Pacific fare. Think freshly caught seafood, hints of street food and a whooole lot of flavour. And, luckily for us, you’ll find all of this (and more!) at Auckland’s newest restaurant, Beast & Butterflies.

Located within M Social’s waterfront hotel, Beast & Butterflies keeps the good times—and the good food—rolling with a restaurant, bar annnd on-site deli. It ticks all the boxes with everything from private dining and cheeky cocktails to express lunches and coffee to-go. It’s a one-stop spot!

The light and bright space boasts a modern interior with pops of wood, marble and tiles. Paired with brightly coloured cushioned and greenery, you’ll immediately feel relaxed in the stylish yet welcoming interior. Better yet, Beast & Butterflies showcases views of the Waitemata Harbour and bustling Quay Street (anyone for a spot of people-watching?).

And you don’t need to stay in the hotel to eat your way through their mouth-watering menus—Beast & Butterflies welcomes both guests and passer-by’s alike. Although, don’t be surprised when the waterfront rooms tempt you into a staycation!

At the helm you’ll find head chef Scott Gaskin. His mission? To create dishes with “feelings of comfort, indulgence, craziness and—of course—happiness.” And that he does! Showcasing the exotic flavours of the Pacific Rim you’re in for a treat—morning, noon or night. 

Kickstart your day with a mushroom truffle omelette, kahawhai kedgeree or teriyaki pork brioche with lashing of yuzu hollandaise. Lunch is all about fresh seafood with freshly shucked oysters, kingfish ceviche and unmissable laksa packed with prawns, clams and octopus. Seafood aside, you’ll also find shiitake gyoza dumplings, beef rendang curry and our fave: a divine beef carpaccio.

If you’re after a quick bite to eat, the express lunch has you covered with fish and chips, pork belly and an aromatic tofu salad. Or, if you’re after an EVEN quicker bite to eat, the on-site deli is chocka with salads, sammies and decadent sweet treats. We rate the cookies loaded with chunks of triple chocolate!

When dinner rolls around, the lunchtime menu and its divine seafood makes a reappearance. If you’re visiting with your squad, devour shared plates of masaman lamb shoulder, whole baked fish or soy-glazed chicken spitchcock, charred to perfection.

There’s always room for dessert—especially when it’s Beast & Butteflies’ desserts we’re talking about! Choose between ginger brulée, caramelised banana or pineapple paired with chilli, tequila and lime—it’s SUCH a show-stopping combo!

Wash down with a coffee or something “stronger” from the bar. There’s beer, wine and more spirits than you can poke a stick at. The innovative cocktails are a treat for the senses—especially the aptly named “beast”. Made with dry ice, the theatrical drink features bourbon, bacon and cotton candy. Yep, this is one next-level drink!

The cat’s out of the bag on this new opening and you’re gonna want to visit for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. Thanks to Beast & Butterflies, Auckland’s foodie scene just reached a whole new level.

Image credit: Alex Wallace and Deborah Asprey