NZIA Regional Award 2004

A quasi-colonial interior combines authentic ethnic food with a touch of innovation. This is a place where colonial reserve meets street-side hustle and where an uncomplicated palette of materials combines with robust detailing to evoke memories of its trading house origins.

The essential Chinese medicine cabinet is elevated to the status of shrine. Herbal concoctions and pickled curiosities jostle for space among staples and spices.

Monsoon Poon pays homage to the famed Long Bar of some far-eastern haunt, as viewed from down under.

At its heart, is an open kitchen. A glorified hawker’s cart thrusts out in close proximity to diners, displaying the full marvel of the cooking process, where dining becomes theatre and creates a fantasy that leaves a lingering taste for your senses.