Restaurant Review: Morell Bar & Bistro
If you’re looking for something a little bit fancy without the pretence, Morell Bar & Bistro is an exquisite hidden gem, quietly nestled into the inner sanctum of Remuera’s Upland Road.
Hosted by husband and wife superstars, Daniel and Sarah Morini, the venue, the decor and vibe are a perfect reflection of the duo, showcasing Sarah’s vibrancy and love of people, with Daniels’ exquisite dance of flavours, textures and culinary experience.
From the moment you step inside, the greeting is brilliantly warm, with a team of eloquent, knowledgeable and passionate foodies manning the floor. You’re treated like one of the locals and it was no surprise that even on a ‘school night’, the place was packed. It’s what you would expect from your local eatery – the place where everyone knows your name…..But this is no average ‘bar’ or local restaurant.
For fish and seafood lovers, you’re in for a treat. Fresh caught snapper, cockles, scallops and even whitebait fritters filled the menu, bringing joy to many of our companion diners at other tables. The crayfish ravioli is a family sized starter with a chive butter sauce and truffle salt, and was literally an emotional experience.
Being classic meat eaters, we opted for the lamb rump and the eye fillet and both declared that if we never ate another meal, we could rest happy. It was spiritual, perfectly delivered and was accompanied with a symphony of exquisite flavours that danced around our palates.
All ‘bougie’ food writer descriptions aside, it was damn good. So good in fact that there were many times when my companion and I were speechless. That’s a big deal.
Whether your roll up in your jandals or your Versace, this is the place for everyone. A little bit fancy with none of the pretence: just good people and great food.
This place has to be experienced to be believed.
Morell Bar & Bistro
91 – 95 Upland Road
Remuera, Auckland
(09) 600 3259
Hi I'm Monique Bradley.