Bar Magda

Tucked away on Cross St, just a few minutes’ walk from the vibrant main Karangahape Rd, Bar Magda is a fantastic spot for catching up with friends over drinks and sharing plates of tasty Filipino-inspired cuisine.

Open the door and take the stairs down to find the underground restaurant. You’ll be greeted with a smile and treated like family. The staff are friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is welcoming with dim red and orange lights which creates a cosy vibe.

Carlo Buenaventura, the chef, and co-owner serves his own interpretation of Filipino food here with dishes that are meant to be shared including the “Magda Fest”, a banquet style set menu showcasing seasonal dishes with a spin on some cult classic dishes.

Grab some friends and a selection of plates and dig into the grilled chicken and duck liver parfait, served with Viennese brioche as a starter.  The Parmesan custard preserved pimiento is another must-try.  When if you’re looking for something hot, get the lamb ribs “pyanggang” or the chicken BBQ ‘inato’, both are delicious. Add the Magda salad from the cold options on the menu for some refreshing flavours. Finish on a sweet note with the chocolate marquise for dessert.

For those looking for the perfect drop to match with your meal, Magda has a huge selection of drinks to choose from. Whether you feel like something sour like the watermelon, strawberry, Gracias Dios mezcal, yellow chartreuse and mint cocktail or something soft like a ginger beer, there is a drink for everyone.

So, whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends and family or a romantic dinner for two, Bar Magda is worth checking out before a night out on K’Road.