On Tuesday evening, The North Shore’s botanical themed restaurant and bar, The Botanist celebrated turning two. An event was held especially for the venue’s local friends, media and celebrities, including Rochelle Fox, Jude & Lynette Bolton, Will Stewart, Steve Flood & Lynzey Murphy from MKR, Taryn Williams, Caroline Groth and Tara Rushton.

Guest enjoyed a cozy evening out of the rain and wind, sampling The Botanist’s new autumn menu. These were created by head chef Timo Vogel and included Haloumi Toast, Green Pea Salad, Tuna Poke Spoons, Corn and Chorizo Croquettes, Classic Beef Sliders and Pepperoni Pizza.

A choice of two cocktails on arrival were the perfect warm up on a wintry evening – the Winter Mule (Ketel One Vodka, lime and blackberry puree, topped with ginger beer) and Mango Mai-Tai (Pampero, lime, Orgeat and mango puree). Other drinks included those supplied by Endeavour Beers and wines such as Yealands Estate Pinot Gris, Printhie Chardonnay and Varichon Sparkling.

The restaurant’s name references illustrious Botanist Gerard Fothergill who travelled the world researching plants, and whose last years of his life were spent running a small book shop in the very building the restaurant now occupies.

The Botanist pays homage to these historical and botanical themes of exploration and discovery, creating food and cocktail menus using abundant offerings of fresh produce, herbs and spices.