Roses Dining Room

Forget your average restaurant routine. Roses Dining Room on Karangahape Road throws a curveball, transforming a former storeroom into a vibrant playground for emerging chefs. Owned by a team of four including the artistic duo of Ophelia Harradine-Bayley (photographer), Karl Bayly (multi-disciplinary artist), Emil and Joe, this hidden gem isn't your typical dining spot.

The story behind Roses is as unique as its concept. The couple, having a nostalgia for the space's past life showcasing art (including their own), spotted the "For Lease" sign during the peak of COVID. Driven by a touch of serendipity (and possibly craving for a creative outlet), Ophelia signed the lease on the spot.

Initially, it was a playful experiment—a "pretend restaurant" with chef-trained Karl at the helm.  Opening fortnightly, it was a low time commitment venture perfect for a couple with their first child on the way. Then came the idea to create a space to showcase chefs and winemakers (Karl is an avid winemaker himself) and voila, the idea for Roses Dining Room bloomed.

Fast-forward two years and 29 resident chefs later, Roses has blossomed into an essential dining destination. Forget a static menu—the magic lies in its ever-changing lineup. Each residency lasts from a week to a few months, giving rising culinary stars the platform to showcase their talents. It's a full-circle moment for Karl and Ophelia, who, in their past gallery-running days, championed upcoming artists.

While there are a few basic guidelines—budget and number of dishes (designed mostly for sharing)—the chefs have free rein when crafting their menus. The kitchen is the chef’s studio, Karl acts as their culinary mentor, ensuring the focus stays on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. He also lends a helping hand during their first shift.

The excitement of a menu that morphs adds to the allure. One week, you might be digging into a slow-cooked chicken rice masterpiece, the next, a lamb dish with a side of burnt beetroot (the bitter crisp salad paired surprisingly well with the melt-in-the-mouth lamb). Chefs are handpicked based on recommendations or approach the restaurant directly—but as Ophelia stresses, it’s just as much about the “vibe” they give than their culinary experience.

And she’s right—the magic of Roses goes beyond the ever-evolving menu and it’s because of the experience it creates. Stepping through the bottle-lined walkway, you're greeted by an intimate room bathed in a soft, purple glow. Half a dozen tables adorned with fresh flowers and flickering candles create a dreamy atmosphere. You'll feel more like a friend at a secret dinner party than just another customer. The open kitchen allows you to witness the culinary artistry firsthand.

Service at Roses extends beyond order-taking. The front-of-house team, including Ophelia herself, radiates warmth and genuine care for their guests. They're not just serving food; they're creating an experience. Diners are treated like friends, and seeing by the abundance of regulars returning, the feelings are reciprocated, creating an atmosphere of true romance.  

Roses is where romance meets casual comfort, perfect for a date night or a fun night out with friends. This K Road eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking an artistic culinary adventure.

Words: Su-Lin L | Image credit: Michael White