Grand Millennium Auckland has announced the opening of two new Paul Izzard designed dining venues – Ember and The Aviary – led by chefs James Kenny and Aaron Hyett.
Leading hospitality design studio, Izzard Design has transformed the 144-seat restaurant, Ember, into a relaxed and approachable bistro that draws inspiration from a multitude of cuisine styles, playing homage to the nomadic lifestyle of hotel travellers.
Esteemed New Zealand Chef James Kenny is at the helm of Ember’s culinary offering. From scampi toast with pineapple hot sauce or wagyu steak with Provence style accompaniments, Kenny and Head Chef Aaron Hyett are committed to keeping the dining experience fun while not compromising technique and flavour.
Grand Millennium Auckland General Manager, James Billing says, “The opening of Ember and the Aviary heralds the start of an exciting new chapter for Grand Millennium Auckland as we elevate and modernise the hotel’s elegance that has always been here. It’s a big year for the hotel as we undergo a significant $30million makeover across our food and beverage venues, meeting and events spaces and guest rooms.”
“The name Ember signifies more than flames or glowing coals, it represents the subtle, inviting glow that radiates from a shared meal, a memorable conversation, and a welcoming atmosphere. Ember sets out to embody the warmth of togetherness, the heart of hospitality and the spirit of slow, soulful dining,” concludes James.
At Ember breakfasts, long lunches, after work drinks and pre-theatre dinners flow from sunrise to sunset, with the option of booking an exclusive space for groups. Ember is an easy 5-minute walk to Auckland’s theatre district and is well placed for pre-and post-theatre food and drinks.
From sipping morning macchiatos to espresso martinis by night, The Aviary Cocktail Bar is led by innovative Irish bartender, Thomas Shortt.
Ember and The Aviary join Grand Millennium Auckland’s drawcard dining destinations, Katsura Japanese Cuisine and sensory dining experience Dans le Noir?
About the chefs
James Kenny is a New Zealand chef that has an impressive array of experience in both local kitchens and internationally renowned restaurants. Originally from Papatoetoe, Kenny’s career has spanned training in Paris, chef roles in Greece, London (Gordon Ramsay’s The Boxwood) and Denmark (Copenhagen’s The Pescatarian and the globally renowned Noma). Back in New Zealand, Kenny was previously Executive Chef at Palmer, Alberts, Cornwall Park Bistro and Gerome.
For over 16 years Kenny has dedicated his life to hard work within the kitchen, cooking to the utmost of his capability and always with passion. Seasonal produce, sustainability and personal wellbeing are important to Kenny, especially in today’s rapidly evolving world. He has a passion for travel and fully immersing himself in the customs and cultures of others and believes food is an integral element of this.
Rising hospitality talent, Aaron Hyett has for over 12 years fully immersed himself cooking in a variety of establishments across Australia and New Zealand. Hyett has honed his skills in multiple cuisine styles from Greek, Spanish, contemporary European and fine dining. Previous roles include Head Chef at Palmer Bar & Restaurant and Senior Chef de Partie at Gerome and Cornwall Park Eateries. During his time at Corte in Melbourne, Hyett collaborated with renowned restaurant Vue de Monde. His ethos is to cook with the utmost care and respect for the ingredients used and to the best of his abilities.
4.5 star GMA
Grand Millennium Auckland is located in the city centre close to landmark venues The Civic, Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square, the city’s largest outdoor civic space.
The 4.5-star hotel presents 452 rooms and suites with floor to ceiling windows flanked around a central atrium flooded with natural light. All rooms feature a bathtub and modern amenities. Extensive hotel facilities include an indoor heated pool, gym, executive lounge, business centre, undercover cark parking with EV charger and versatile meeting and conference facilities spanning 16 rooms, catering for events of up to 1,000 people.
Grand Millennium Auckland is part of Millennium Hotels and Resorts New Zealand, a hospitality group with 18 hotels throughout New Zealand.
