The Upland Road shops have long played a pivotal part in marrying the suburban boundaries of Meadowbank and Remuera. Servicing the area was the once-cherished stalwart, The Villager — an increasingly fatigued watering hole that sadly fell by the wayside last year. Now, however, the surrounding community can revel in the suave new local bar and restaurant in its place, The Corner.

The slick new address, brainchild of ex-marketing manager Patrick Kean, has been given a full makeover by Paul Izzard’s talented team with a crisp palette of deep navy, brown leather, brass and American oak. Not only is there a pared back dining room and private dining area adorned with several large-scale Fiona Pardington pieces supplied by Starkwhite gallery, but the booths out front have been cleverly devised as the perfect spot for keeping the kids in check. Adhering to its original function as a neighbourhood bar, a place to pop in, stay and watch the rugby, The Corner has also managed to congruently introduce a restaurant capacity and a refined bistro menu to go with it. The philosophy of ‘simple food done well’ is firmly intact thanks to ex-French Cafe chef, Archana Kurup. 

With mouthwatering iterations of the best Wakanui steak you’ve arguably ever tasted, topped with expertly-fried onion rings, a light gravy and ‘hasselbacks’ (buttery, slivered, baked potatoes), a superb beef carpaccio, and Snapper with a fresh pea, mint and pistachio crust — this is gastropub food at its finest. Not to mention, to keep things lubricated, they’ve got everything from house made espresso martinis to Batchwell kombucha on tap as well as a line-up of Champagnes, beers and local wines to satiate one’s thirst no matter what the occasion. And with experienced manager Christine Viljoen on hand, you can rest assured that your needs will be well-tended. 

So, whether it’s a mid-week meal with the family, a ladies’ lunch, Friday night drinks, or a Sunday afternoon session you desire, the talented team is putting its best foot forward with an array of superlative offerings, cocktails of the moment and cold brews on tap. The Corner, it would seem, is ticking all the boxes, and it’s ready to let the good times roll.

Opening 7 days, 11am till late. To make a booking, click here.