The latest cocktail bar to hit the Auckland scene, Mea, has officially opened its doors for the first time ahead of the festive season.
Auckland’s newest, must-visit cocktail bar, Mea, has opened its doors just in time for the festive season, promising elevated cocktails in a beautiful waterfront setting right over the boardwalk.
From competition and award-winning mixologists Adam Neal and Jason Rosen, the brains behind rooftop hotspot, Parasol & Swing, Mea is the newest kid on the block in Auckland’s Viaduct.
Mea is a collaboration with Appleton Estate, and one of only three venues in New Zealand offering Appleton Estate’s rare, limited-edition 17-Year-Old Legend rum. The intimate, modern bar seats just 14 patrons, so be sure to get in quick.
Mea offers an at-bar service experience inviting guests to witness the artistry behind every cocktail, with a little bit of history along the way. This experience is partially inspired by the old Ponsonby icon, Mea Culpa, which Jason owned at the time Parasol & Swing was opened.
The curated menu of forgotten classics and bespoke modern cocktails includes Appleton Estate’s famous 17-Year-Old Mai Tai, made from Appleton Estate’s 17-Year-Old Legend – one of the most sought-after spirits in cocktail history. Only 1,500 bottles of this rum were produced globally, with just 23 made available in New Zealand – and Mea is the only bar in Auckland to offer it.
“We’re so excited to partner with Mea and showcase one of Appleton Estate’s rarest blends in a world-class venue, right here in New Zealand” said Phil Restall, Managing Director of Thirsty Camel NZ – part of Campari Group.
Mea is named after a character of legend, thus far known only by her silhouette on the iconic logo of Parasol & Swing. Her backstory is mysterious and adventurous. A journey collecting recipes from legendary bars in London, to the tropical shores of Jamaica, and tiki bars of America, that saw her master the art of cocktail making while learning from the greats.
Mea’s journey finally found her way to Auckland, where her passion and recipes will be shared with our patrons, inspiring a new adventure with every sip.
“Working with Appleton Estate has been a unique opportunity, allowing New Zealanders to experience rare rums in innovative cocktails. Enjoying these creations while sitting in the heart of Auckland's Viaduct will be pretty special,” said Parasol & Swing’s Adam Neal.
“We can’t wait to introduce you to Mea.”
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