Overlooking Auckland's iconic Viaduct Harbour, Parasol & Swing is a true destination bar. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of 18th-century travelling barkeeps, the venue blends historical charm with modern hospitality.
At the heart of Parasol & Swing lies a dedication to crafting innovative cocktails, where skilled bar staff serve up a meticulously curated drinks menu. By sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients and employing time-honoured techniques, they transform classic cocktails into modern masterpieces - each drink is a reimagined classic that surprises and delights guest and keeps them coming back for more! And to go alongside their incredible drinks, Parasol & Swing's food menu is inspired by global flavours.
"The original idea for Parasol & Swing was to provide the high level of award-winning cocktails we used to make at our previous bar 'Mea Culpa' but on a larger scale," explains co-owner Jason Rosen. "We wanted to create a space where people could enjoy these incredible drinks in a stunning setting with a fun and funky tropical vibe. We want people to feel like they’re on holiday while they’re here!”
Parasol & Swing is also committed to operating sustainability. They source local ingredients, reduce waste, and minimise their environmental impact, ensuring a responsible and eco-friendly operation.
The biggest sustainability practice Parasol & Swing tries to incorporate is the simple idea to use less, and use in as many ways as you can, wherever possible. For example, with each lemon they use the peels for cocktail flavour concentrates and syrups like oleo saccharum. The juice is used to make fresh citrus drinks like the ever-popular sours, and the rind and some peels can be used for jams or dehydrated and crushed into powders for glass rims. Using less water and ice is also a goal, so cocktails are often pre-diluted and served chilled either from a bottle or from a tap. This reduces water use by not having to shake or stir every drink, and of course speeds up service times.
"We believe that great service, unique products, a fantastic location, and an overall exceptional experience are what keeps people coming back," says Rosen. "Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we've adapted and continue to offer a world-class experience."
“Being in the Viaduct with our beautiful harbour view is a huge part of who we - our deck has one of the best views in the city and we cater our menus around the experience of being on it, with bright fresh flavours on the food menu, alongside bespoke cocktails and great boutique wines to enhance the experience.”
Exciting developments are also on the horizon for Parasol & Swing with a recent refurbishment and a new bar on the lower level.
"We have a new bar being built this November in our lower level, with an epic cocktail list that will change weekly so stay tuned for that!”
