Alan Smith and Steve Tier bring to Sovrano skill, creativity and a keen appreciation of successful restaurant operations.
With former chef Selwyn Bethune having moved on, Alan and Steve wanted to make a fresh start. They have initiated installation of a pizza oven and are set to make décor changes such as new seating, tablecloths in the evening and extended outdoor dining when summer arrives. The menu, opening times and service standards have also been reviewed and the guys are keen to gain a full liquor licence.
Both have been at the helm of some of Auckland’s most respected venues and their 60 combined years of industry service has included catering for weddings, small and large functions, and providing a mix of casual and fine dining.
“Our paths crossed when we both did some work for Swashbucklers down at Westhaven,” says Alan, who formerly owned Bluefins at Mission Bay as well as other well-known venues. Most recently Steve owned and operated Surreal Café and the beautiful rural wedding venue, Monterey Restaurant near Whenuapai.
“We’re both accustomed to dealing with crowds and believe food and service has to be consistently good especially at busy times,” Alan says. “For example, customers on a 30 minute or 60 minute lunch break have to know they can order, be served and enjoy their meal in that time.”
Focused on providing a menu that encompasses Italian flair and Kiwi favourites, Alan and Steve say check out their $22 mains, they’re ‘primo’ in size and presentation which makes them great value for money.
“However we don’t stand on a lot of ceremony,” Steve says. “We create everything on site and work fast but we have a relaxed attitude and want local patrons to feel they can pop in for a takeout pizza or sit down after work to wile away a couple of hours with a bottle of wine and a first rate meal.”
With fellow café owner Kere taking care of marketing and administration, local companies can expect to hear from her regarding corporate catering, private functions and Christmas.
In consultation with Alan and Steve, she has already initiated the café’s new opening hours – Tuesday to Thurs, 8am to 4pm, Friday 8am-10pm, Saturday 9am-10pm, Sunday 9am-4pm, with late nights for dinner every Friday and Saturday.
With a clear vision of what they want for the future, Alan, Steve and Kere have one other big change in the icing bag – a new name.
They’ve decided Stellar (meaning star) is perfect for the new look and new direction while still enjoying the support of neighbouring enoteca Sovrano. This is one rising star that locals should keep their eye on.
