Candela

Created by Matt Ross and Leola King, Candela was born out of a passion for Spanish culture and cuisine. The pair have transformed a former bubble tea shop into a sophisticated eatery and wine bar, adorned with European decor, including old railway lights from London and stunning tiled flooring from Romania. Their extensive experience in hospitality, spanning from Spain to Auckland and Melbourne, is reflected in the thoughtfully curated wine list and the meticulously crafted menu​​.

Candela's menu is an adventurous foray into Spanish and Latin American cuisine, offering a range of small plates that are perfect for sharing. From traditional patatas bravas to smoked kahawai croquettas, the dishes at Candela are a testament to the fusion of cultures and cuisines. The Mibrasa charcoal oven imparts a distinctive smokiness to many of the dishes, adding depth and complexity to the flavours​​.

Highlights from the menu include the lamb belly pintxos, characterised by charred meat and a minty, bright green chilli salsa, and the fideua, a unique take on paella featuring vermicelli-thin baked pasta with a deep tomato-clam background flavour and smoky chorizo. Another standout dish is the octopus, tenderly cooked and accompanied by a lemony-white bean puree, showcasing the restaurant's expertise in preparing seafood​​.

Candela's drinks list is as adventurous as its menu, with an emphasis on Spanish and New Zealand wines, sherries, and a variety of cocktails, including the Pisco Fizz. The beverage selection complements the rich flavours of the dishes, making Candela a destination for food and wine enthusiasts alike​​.

In keeping with K' Road's eclectic and vibrant atmosphere, Candela plans to incorporate music and entertainment into its offerings, with Latin bands and DJ sets enhancing the dining experience. This combination of delicious cuisine, exquisite drinks, and lively entertainment promises to transport diners to the heart of Spain and Latin America, even if just for a meal​​.

For those yearning for an authentic taste of Spanish and Latin American cuisine, Candela offers to transport your tastebuds. With its focus on sustainability, quality ingredients, and an atmosphere that blends casual dining with sophisticated flair, Candela is a very welcome addition to Auckland's dynamic and diverse dining scene .