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Turning Carpe Diem & Pacific Bar in Gulf Harbour into the type of community hub “where everybody knows your name” (to quote the TV series Cheers) will take time, but a new team is on board and working hard to achieve that.
Managing director Tammy Jenkins says the first priority has been focusing on top quality service and food.
“The aim is to make it a regular spot for Gulf Harbour locals, as well as attractive to visitors,” she says. “There are some big changes to come, including a complete makeover, but it will all have to be done gradually so that we can remain open throughout.”
Baodi Shan, whose background is in hospitality, bought the business five months ago. He had been working in the kitchen for several months and says he could see the potential that the restaurant and bar have.
“It’s a fantastic location – the best spot in Gulf Harbour – and with a strong team I feel confident we can achieve big things,” Shan says.
His ultimate goal is for Carpe Diem to be one of the top restaurants in New Zealand.
Tammy says the team is currently adjusting the entertainment options in the Pacific Bar to find out what appeals most to customers.
There is live entertainment every weekend, including popular acts like Ben and Hayden/Accoustic Intent of Stanmore Bay and Greta Fischer. A weekly pub quiz is on the agenda.
Restaurant manager Gail Horton-Stott says that the menu is having a fusion styled makeover, with the focus on fresh, seasonal and quality ingredients, with a new brunch and dinner menu arriving in time for winter.
She says the kitchen staff bring experience from all over the world, including Brazil, China, the UK and New Zealand.
She says as more restaurants have opened in the area, competition is keeping everyone on their toes.
“We have to have the total package – professional, friendly service, great food and an atmosphere that people enjoy,” she says. “We are very grateful to our long term customers, who have made this place their second home, and we’re looking forward to welcoming a whole lot of new ones”.
