Molten

Molten is a jewel of the suburban dining in Auckland. Located at the foot of the iconic Mt. Eden, this casual yet elegant restaurant was recently named 2009 Best Neighbourhood Restaurant by Cuisine Magazine.

The restaurant's exterior resembling the rows of specialty shops along Mt. Eden road. It can be a little challenging to spot Molten if one is cruising along. So look out for the colourful City Cake Company and the restaurant is just two doors away.

Entering the restaurant, Belinda the co-owner and Maitre d' greeted us with warm smiles. The interior is simple and welcoming. It fits the description of a typical suburban diner but with an edge. The menu has just enough selection to tempt the taste bud.

We started with the in-house baked bread with Te Arai Estate olive oil and avocado aioli. The warm and soft roll filled with caramelised onions was our favourite. What a great start to the meal. I went for Molten's famous sesame salt and pepper squid. It was absolutely divine. Soft, juicy squid with delicate crispy and light outside. The nuttiness of the peanut relish and sesame batter are well balanced by the chilli honey.

Sesame salt and pepper squid w cucumber, peanut relish and chilli honey

Confit duck, pumpkin and orzo pasta w rimu smoked bacon and shredded rocket

The other meal was the confit duck and pumpkin orzo pasta. A rich and creamy pasta with the sweetness from the pumpkin and smokiness of the rimu-smoked bacon. We finished the meal with feijoa and vodka sorbet.

Feijoa and vodka sorbet w toasted coconut and pineapple brittle

Molten
422 Mt. Eden Road, Mt. Eden

In house baked bread selection