Can this new revamped Asian-inspired Ponsonby Restaurant and Bar make a martini that came with fiery chilli and lychee become your favourite tipple?
For the adventurous and those wanting to experience something different and new, you may want to check out the newly rebranded Eden Noodles Bar Ponsonby.
Formerly known as Xiexie, business partners Kyo Shen and Max Ma - who are also part of the Eden Noodle chain - have decided to bring a taste of familiarity back.
But while you might find some familiar favourites, like the Eden Noodles dan dan mian and spicy dumplings, the duo has engaged Tanky Zong - the former boss man of Zong Kitchen - to curate unique Asian-inspired cocktails and drinks.
“Eden Noodles is already world famous in Auckland for its noodles and dumplings, so the next step is to make our drinks just as great,” said Zong, the restaurant and bar’s new bartender and manager.
“I have recently returned from China, where I have spent many nights out at bars, looking, learning and drawing inspiration for our new drinks list.”
Zong draws inspiration from the streets and alleys of Sichuan for his Sichuan Martini, which is Chinese baijiu and gin-based cocktail that comes with a fiery hot chilli and lychee.
“The Sichuan Martini is a spicy twist to the classic Martini, with chilli pepper added for the fiery flavour and served with a garnish of lychee,” Zong said.
“Take a sip and it will take you to Sichuan and feel the warm hospitality of the locals that are not only fiery, but also sweet inside and out.”
Others on the drinks list include the sexy named Hainan Naked Lady (white rum, coconut, pineapple, pomegranate with whipped cream), Beijing Tea (black tea with lemon and Bourbon whiskey served in a traditional Chinese tea cup) and the Shanghai Buck (gold rum, ginger, lime and soda).
My favourite is the Jiangsu Frozen Margarita, a refreshing tequila with ingredients that include osmanthus, lime and orange - as described on the menu “sipping the floral fragrance that cools you down while easily leaving you a little tipsy”.
Playing on the Chinese belief of Ying and Yang - two complementary forces that make up all aspects and phenomena of life, Zong has also created the Ying Yang shots - with vodka, plum and Coke making up Ying and vodka, caramel, vanilla for Yang.
“I just want to bring a bit of China into our drinks and present something totally unique, different, playful and delicious,” Zong said.
Alongside these special cocktails, there is also a classic cocktail menu, mocktails, beers on tap and a wine list that has been carefully curated to include wine that enhances the flavours of its food.
Eden Noodles Bar Ponsonby
Lot 3, 130 Ponsonby Road Auckland
