225B Dominion Road,
Mt Eden
Auckland,
(09) 630 0228
The ViewAuckland Review
Vibe
Stylish and modern wooden interior leading to an open courtyard that will be perfect for summer dining. Dramatic screen printed murals on the walls reflect Serafin Café & Bar’s Spanish heritage.
Service
Friendly wait staff from Madrid and Barcelona definitely add a layer of Spanish authenticity. They’re equally passionate about Serafin’s excellent tapas and the decades-old football rivalry between the two Spanish cities.
Drinks List
Courtesy of a couple of selfish neighbours, Serafin’s liquor license is currently under appeal. Fingers crossed for a positive outcome and Spanish wine and beer will be added to the existing focus on mineral water, infusions and soft drinks.
Highlights
Langostinos al Aillo ($17.50), prawns sautéed in garlic and chilli, and the superb dessert double header of Chocolate Con Churros $8 and Crema Catalana $9.50. The churros (Spanish doughnuts) are light and fluffy, and perfect dipped in bitter chocolate, and the crème brulee style Catalana comes with a delicate hint of orange zest.
Most Suprising Dish
Pollo En Escabeche, chicken thighs slow-cooked in garlic and thyme ($11.50).
The Bottom Line
One of Auckland’s most authentic Spanish restaurants reaffirms to the city just what real tapas should be like. And note, there’s definitely no apostrophe.
A Reason To Return
Breakfast of Huevos Flamencas (baked eggs with chorizo), or to share Serafin’s paella for two people ($39.50), hopefully with a glass of wine.
Serafin Cafe & Bar has been reviewed by 5 users