Vibe

The recently screened Under The Grill programme didn’t really convey just how well designed The Grill by Sean Connolly Restaurant is. A large, open plan setting with a direct eye-line to the kitchen and seafood bar is quite the talking point. Following on from its opening, the bevy of local media celebs continue to grace The Grill with their attendance.


Service

Knowledgeable and friendly with a bonus point for wine recommendations. Had we not been dining as a foursome however, the duration between courses may have been an issue. That said, despite being the last group to leave we never felt like we were being hurried along.


Drinks List

As impressive as the Dinner menu in terms of shear scale and variety, the recommended Nga Waka Pinot Noir ($79 per bottle) proved to be a very sound choice. For beer drinkers, the Mata Artesian and Stoke Amber Ale were two options that stood out.


Highlights

On any other day in any other restaurant, the Raw Seafood entree platter (Kingfish, Tuna, Snapper, Salmon) would have taken line honours, however the Wakanui grain-fed Eye Fillet with Chimichurri sauce, coupled with Duck-fat chips could quite easily be my last supper.


Most Surprising Dish

Actually - dishes. With Bluenose, Snapper, Crayfish and Clam options all on the mains list, it seems The Grill by Sean Connolly is just as adept in working with delicate kaimoana offerings as it is with the the traditional grilled staples.


The Bottom Line

SkyCity’s flagship restaurant, and for good reason. The Grill by Sean Connolly has got the formula right - great surroundings, knowledgeable and friendly service and simple, flavoursome (and local) food, comfortably one of Auckland’s top five dining experiences.


A Reason To Return

Armed with a larger expense account, and more carnivorous appetite, the “Study of Beef” (a selection of the Chef’s three favourite cuts) has already been added to my dining bucket-list.

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