Have you ever had the opportunity to dine with a magician?
I’m not talking about cooking a magician for dinner, but rather having one entertain you right at your table.
I can tell you from personal experience, it’s an enchanting and truly magical event.
I had the privilege of hosting Tara Okan, a skilled illusionist, who showcased his magic tricks up close at MoVida restaurant in Auckland. His incredible skills captivated me and impressed the restaurant staff who gathered around our table.
I first met Tara a few weeks earlier through David Rees, whom I encountered on the streets of Auckland. We immediately hit it off and decided to go on a sunset picnic adventure to a quiet beach together.
Tara’s innovative magic acts brought an extra level of excitement to an already wonderful evening at MoVida, a top-notch restaurant serving Spanish cuisine with a New Zealand twist.
MoVida opened its doors in August 2022, accommodating up to 150 guests. Situated on the second floor of the stylish Seafarers Building on Tyler Street in the elegant Britomart district, the restaurant offers stunning views of Waitemata Harbour and is conveniently close to a bustling Saturday market. Previously home to Ostro, MoVida is now operated by a partnership between the Savor Group and the original owners of MoVida, including head chef and founder, Frank Camorra.
The restaurant’s design by Paul Izzard from Izzard Design seamlessly blends a tapas bar vibe with an upscale dining atmosphere. The team, comprised of youthful, welcoming, and efficient individuals from various countries, is led by the lively general manager Michael Nesti from Tuscany.
Our dining experience kicked off with cocktails, opting for vermouth and indulging in a rich selection that included a zesty variation from Tarragona.
The menu at MoVida features aperitivos, tapas, raciones, and parillas, boasting an array of dishes inspired by their flagship restaurant in Melbourne. We relished dishes like green-lipped mussels, burrata, marinated octopus, wagyu beef, smoked prawns, and braised beef cheek in red wine and sherry, all skillfully prepared and served by our exceptional servers Medelin Watape and Erika Martinez. And let’s not overlook the magical flair brought by Tara, the eminent illusionist from New Zealand.
Image Source: Booking.com
