Lyttelton launch to fill ‘huge gap’
Sahni Bennett, and business partner Joseph Quested are a week away from opening Lyttelton’s newest restaurant, Super.
Bennet has previously owned four cafes, including Beat Street Cafe, but despite her experience, this time feels different.
‘‘I am really nervous,’’ she says, and a reason for that is that she’s poured so much of her own personality into the project.
When the ‘‘really cool’’ 1860s building at 5 Norwich Quay came up for lease mid-last year the mother-of-seven jumped at it, enlisting Quested to make the project feasible.
‘‘As a Lyttelton local I saw a huge gap in the market for casual dining, something for families. It’s quite surprising there’s really only fine dining restaurants or fish and chips.’’
Everything from Bennett’s commitment to sustainability, obsession of Japanese food and addiction for neon signs is reflected in Super. To reduce the business’ environmental impact stainless steel straws and biodegradable food packaging is used, along with a minimal amount of dairy and beef.
The pair’s preference for plantbased food is evident in the menu, but with a Japanese twist. ‘‘We set out to create dishes that are nutritionally balanced using lots of fresh flavours and plants. I went there (Japan) a couple of years ago and have been a little bit obsessed with the food since. That influence has come through quite strongly.’’
Super is inviting the public to sample its menu at its soft openings tonight, tomorrow and Friday. $60 per person. To book email eat@ super. restaurant.