The Foodies, a new delivery-only restaurant serving up Michelin-inspired meals, has launched in Auckland.
Located downtown and one of only a handful of virtual, or dark, restaurants in New Zealand, The Foodies sees cordon-bleu chefs creating fine food for those who enjoy fine-food but want to do so within their own environment and who are located within a 10km radius of the kitchen in downtown Auckland.
Established by the creator of the Auckland French Festival and owner of the Le Chef bistro, Ed Le Goff is no stranger when it comes to developing unique food concepts for Aucklanders.
During lockdown, once restrictions allowed, Ed turned to food delivery platforms but felt takeaway options were dominated by fast-food restaurants.
“There were nights my wife and I just did not feel like cooking so we turned to food delivery platforms such as Uber Eats, but we couldn’t find what we were craving – a meal like one you might enjoy out at your favourite bistro. There just wasn’t anything like this available for delivery – to enjoy from your own home,” explained Ed.
Noticing a gap in the market for high-end cuisine for delivery, Ed spent much of lockdown planning, finding a commercial kitchen and the right staff to launch The Foodies.
“Being a virtual kitchen without a physical restaurant means our chefs can focus their attention wholly on the food being delivered to those consumers who want to indulge within their own environment.
“The ingredients, the way the food is cooked and the packaging – everything has been considered to ensure the meal will deliver well but that we’re being as sustainable as possible too,” said Ed.
The menu is diverse with a range of food concepts, including four heroes; Lobster & Crayfish, French Sensation, Platters & Co and Jars with more planned.
The secret sauce of the start-up is a particular Michelin-starred chef who consulted on the menu and helped ensure the best team possible was in the kitchen cooking come launch.
And while there is a bit of European flair, Ed insists the menu has been designed especially for Kiwi palettes.
“From the finest seafood to the best of French gastronomy, our menu is designed to be diverse. Whether elevating that mid-week meal at home or helping you throw an impromptu dinner party, The Foodies have you covered,” says Ed.
For more information, visit https://thefoodies.nz/.
