Tagata Pasifika

The Pacific voice on
New Zealand television
since 1987

Tagata Pasifika

The Pacific voice on
New Zealand television
since 1987

Tagata Pasifika

The Pacific voice on
New Zealand television
since 1987

TALA a taste of Samoan cuisine coming to Auckland

TALA Chef Henry Onesemo. Photo: Manja Wachsmuth

A restaurant dedicated to contemporary Samoan cuisine is coming to Auckland. TALA, is excited to announce it has secured a site in Auckland’s Parnell and will open in late October.

TALA is the creation of Samoan-born chef Henry Onesemo (ex-Meredith’s, Apero and East St. Hall) and wife Debby. It will blend traditional Samoan hospitality with a contemporary interpretation of Samoan flavours for a unique dining experience.

The restaurant will seat approximately 28 diners inside, and a bar deck will open in Summer 2023/24. 

TALA Chef/owner Henry Onesemo says, “it’s a fantastic space and we’re excited to transform it into a brand new experience for TALA. 

I can’t wait to welcome our guests into a fun dining atmosphere where they’ll be able to see all the action of the kitchen, and to introduce them to a fresh perspective on the diverse range of Samoan flavours and ingredients,” says Henry

Open-fire cooking and an umu (a traditional Samoan above-ground oven of hot stones) will be central to TALA. The Samoan word “tala” means “story” or “tale” and Henry will combine these ancient practices with modern cooking techniques to tell his own tales of Samoa through dishes inspired by his Samoan heritage and childhood, but revisited and refined.

reflect the blend of Samoan culture and traditions with Henry’s contemporary approach to its cuisine.

Online bookings will open shortly beforehand via the website at tala.co.nz

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