When Ponsonby dining icon SPQR closed its doors in July of this year, the outcry was heard around the country.
Much loved by Aucklanders, expats and international visitors during its 27 year tenure as the hospitality destination that truly defined the city fringe suburb, diners mourned its cosmopolitan vibe and iconic signature dishes, some even leaving flowers outside its closed doors.
Now, the Ponsonby strip’s most recognised address has been given a new lease of life, having been purchased by renowned hospitality sisters, they set to bring sophistication, spontaneity, theatricality into new genres of inner-city escapism.
Breathe New Life
Bronwyn, and Jessica Payne – owners of Italian dining destination Elmo’s on Ponsonby Road, as well as Hoppers Bar, – were among those mourning the loss of SPQR, but who recognised the opportunity to breathe new life into the legendary site.
Guest judges on My Kitchen Rules New Zealand, and having grown up in the industry, the hospitality pair are reportedly well-equipped to take on the challenge that is creating something new and vibrant in the space – as well as honouring the legacy of what has gone before.
Currently closed until Christmas, as the pair embark upon much-needed renovations that will show ‘some incredible surprises’ on opening day, SPQR regulars can rest assured that the renowned copper bar danced upon by so many over the years will remain in place!
Speaking of their exciting new venture, they say: “We will be creating something new, playful and spectacular – whilst being committed to maintaining the buildings’ history and SPQR’s unique place in the community, in a variety of ways. This new venture will invite all walks of life, a place for old and new faces to enjoy themselves as it has always been at 150 Ponsonby Road.”
Liquidation
Christopher McCullagh and Stephen Lawrence of PKF Corporate Recovery & Insolvency were appointed liquidators.
Their initial report showed the original business owed more than $2 million to the Inland Revenue and other creditors including Auckland Council, and employees.
The IRD had served a statutory demand on SPQR for tax arrears, but it was unable to pay the debt or negotiate a repayment arrangement.
More recently owned by Chris Rupe ,SPQR opened in 1992 and was originally owned by cinematographer Stuart Dryburgh and film-maker Dorthe Scheffmann.
