The Option defies odds in style
The hospitality industry can be brutal, as many restaurateurs in Christchurch continue to discover. So when former journalists Sergiu and Sabina Toader left the hardhitting news scene of Romania for what they thought would be a quieter life as restaurant owners in New Zealand, observers could have been forgiven a chuckle.
Neither had any experience running a restaurant, just a passion for boutique European foods and oodles of the continent’s metropolitan flair, which they brought to, of all places, Northwood.
It was in this elegant corner of the city in late 2015 that they launched The Option Bistro & Wines.
High-end wines from around the world flowed in, chosen by qualified wine expert Sergiu to join some of New Zealand’s finest offerings in a collection the envy of any city, let alone quiet Kiwi suburbia.
There is nothing Sergiu loves more than to talk about the histories and profiles of wines and tasting sessions for small groups are one of the most recent special events introduced at The Option.
The venue itself is also worth a mention. Decked out in brilliant white and purple, it is a vibrant cross between colourful cafe – true by day, when coffees and fresh cabinet fare rule – and upscale formal dining, which is closer to the reality of night.
It’s a place where you can enjoy a white tablecloth experience without the stuffiness.
Diners here are free to explore sides of escargot, caviar and other exotic European treats with their sleeves rolled up and a beer in hand, then follow it with a hearty dish of New Zealand beef or salmon.
Sabina says the goal is to give guests a unique ‘‘full experience’’ and not be just another place for food, coffee and wine.
‘‘It’s been so much work but we take a lot of pride in our establishment and the standards we’ve managed to set and maintain these past few years,’’ she says.
‘‘Our Friday night happy hour from 4pm-6pm is a big hit, with people really enjoying our selection of happy hour wines, beers and bubbles as well as the free nibbles.
‘‘The menu will be updated in mid-autumn and we will continue focusing on the local community and dining experiences that range from casual to quite formal.’’
For Northwood residents, the local touch includes free deliveries. Meals, pizzas and snack platters are now being added to a list that when the new menu starts will include the restaurant’s signature winter roast.
Winter is a nerve-wracking time for many businesses and The Option is no exception, Sabina says.
However, anywhere showing such love for fine food, good times and impeccable service is undoubtedly deserving of diners’ support.
Adding to the special nature of The Option Bistro & Wines are monthly business breakfasts with guest speakers, themed cultural evenings and private functions for which nothing is too much trouble.
❚ The Option Bistro & Wines is open daily at 158 Hussey Rd, Northwood, with Sunday and Monday nights reserved for larger group bookings. For details, phone 03 323 5455 or visit theoption.co.nz.