Ivy growing strong

A popular dining destination has been reinvented once again and, since opening on August 1, has already received glowing praise and increasing interest from customers including 350 followers on Facebook.

New eatery on the scene, Ivy Bistro has taken over from Harvest Blue Cafe, formerly Harvest Cafe, on Molesworth Drive and sees the return of two former employees, restaurant manager Emma Mason and partner, head chef Kris Malcolm.

Mangawhai born and bred, Emma says the name ’Ivy’ harks back to the original garden coffee bar, Naja Cafe and nursery centre in the 1980’s.

“I’ve always really liked the name… and I guess ivy is like Kris and I, resilient, you just can’t get rid of it, just keeps coming back!”

Emma and Kris, who also run a catering business together, have been busy renovating the premises since taking ownership on July 1. Exactly one month later, they now offer customers a chance to sample an exotic menu within a stylish environment.

“Previously it was a bistro-cafe but now it will just be bistro,” Emma says. “We want to offer customers a sophisticated environment with an adult vibe.”

Customers are in good hands as the pair have more than 30 years experience between them in the hospitality business, with Kris being a chef for 25 years, as head chef in both Harvest Cafe and Harvest Blue, and Emma as manager in a number of Kaipara restaurants including Bennett’s and The Cove at Waipu.

The couple’s hopes for the future are naturally to thrive.

“We hope that it will just take off,” Emma says. “I’d like people to have a good time and enjoy the food and atmosphere and hopefully we might even make a bit of money.”

Currently Ivy Bistro is open Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 4pm, however evening meals will be announced soon. n For more information visit facebook.com/ivybistro

GOOD VIBE: Partners in life and business, Kris Malcom and Emma Mason, new owners of Ivy Bistro.