Business and breakfast on the menu

Owner injects new life into city eatery, says Mike Bain for series,

As Mark Davis sits in his restaurant he is enthused by his new business Ember Eatery and Bar overlooking Hamilton’s northern commercial hub in Pukete.

Moving into the hospitality industry after a decade of hauling punga logs is a huge way to reinvent oneself.

‘‘It’s a bit like this place,’’ referring to his new acquisition.

Three years ago its predecessor, the thriving Pumice Restaurant, was gutted by fire.

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, thanks to a million dollar refit, the business now called Ember, was opened two years ago.

Davis said his interest in hospitality came when he began looking for a change in lifestyle and a new challenge.

Ember looked like the ideal opportunity.

The eatery now features a contemporary outside facade and a warm feeling as you walk through the door. To one side is the bar with its ceiling-to-floor windows flowing out onto an enclosed deck.

To the front is a well-stocked bar, but a left turn and the dining area unfolds.

The kitchen with its robata grill hides no secrets and is open for all to see.

Davis admitted he knew nothing about hospitality but sought the expertise to make his new venture a success.

He retained the services of the man who has nurtured the restaurant from its reopening, Mark Smithells, as general manager.

Having 18 years in the hospitality industry, he is a delightful character, with his trademark cap and well-groomed moustache.

Smithells is the experienced helmsman and plans to continue guiding the restaurant onwards and upwards.

Front of house and assistant manager is Hansa Malhotra who has taken over staff training for the restaurant.

She has set the guidelines to fit in with Davis’ vision of his customers being welcomed and relaxed.

The kitchen team is led by the chef Niels Naumann.

Davis and his team are relaunching Ember and also introducing extended hours, and adding a breakfast menu.

‘‘The demand from business people wanting to start the day with a breakfast meeting is about to be delivered,’’ he said.