PHOTO: SPQR restaurant in Ponsonby Road, Auckland. METRO MAGAZINE
One of Auckland’s most iconic restaurants, SPQR, has closed its doors and entered liquidation. This beloved Ponsonby Road eatery, which has been a staple of the city’s dining scene since its opening in 1992, was originally owned by cinematographer Stuart Dryburgh and filmmaker Dorthe Scheffmann.
The news of SPQR’s closure was confirmed yesterday afternoon by co-liquidator Stephen Lawrence, who described the restaurant as “iconic.” Lawrence cited the ongoing struggles of the hospitality industry, exacerbated by the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, increased overheads, and rising costs for supplies. Additionally, New Zealand’s current economic downturn has led to reduced consumer spending on dining out, further impacting the sector.
SPQR is the latest in a series of notable Auckland establishments to succumb to the weak economy. Earlier this month, Chapel Bar & Bistro, also located in Ponsonby, entered receivership due to unpaid loans. In May, department store Smith & Caughey’s announced its planned closure in 2025, which will result in the loss of nearly 250 jobs.
A Storied Past
SPQR opened its doors on Ponsonby Road in 1992 and quickly became a favorite among locals and celebrities alike. Owner Chris Rupe reminisced with Viva about the restaurant’s early days, which included memorable events like the gay pride parades and celebrity sightings. The SPQR Cook Book, launched in 2014, captures many of these memories.
One of the most electrifying events was the first Hero Parade in the summer of 1995. Rupe recalled how thousands of people crammed the pavements, balconies, and windows along Ponsonby Road. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, loud music, and colorful outfits, with no barriers or restrictions in place.
SPQR’s list of famous diners included Mick Jagger and members of the Brit rock-pop band Duran Duran. Rupe shared an anecdote about Jagger’s visit, describing it as a “Hollywood” moment. Jagger and his companion enjoyed a glass of wine and a margarita pizza, staying for about an hour before being whisked away in a black SUV, captured by paparazzi.
The SPQR Cook Book detailed happy memories at the Ponsonby Rd restaurant. Photo / Supplied
A Hub of Celebration and Community
SPQR was known not just for its food but also for its vibrant parties. These events, often themed, were a way for the restaurant to thank its regulars and friends. From dress-up parties featuring drag queens to cowboy-themed bashes, SPQR was a hotspot for wild nights and memorable gatherings.
Rupe reflected on the challenges of taking over the restaurant from its previous owners, including cinematographer Stuart Dryburgh, Dorthe Scheffmann, Kelvin Gibson, and Anthony Evans. Rupe eventually bought the place with Paula Macks after Evans’ passing in 1998.
Former SPQR maitre d’ Krishna Botica highlighted the restaurant’s significant role in supporting Auckland’s gay community, providing a welcoming space that was unique at the time. Esther Lamb, who was headhunted to be a maitre d’ at SPQR at the age of 25, recalled the restaurant as a trailblazer that reignited Ponsonby’s dining scene. She described the lively atmosphere, where high heels and hot pants were part of the uniform, and dancing on the bar was a common sight.
SPQR was a place where arts and gay communities intersected organically, creating a vibrant social hub. Lamb fondly remembered the regular celebrity patrons, including late TV personality Peter Sinclair and former TV3 Nightline host Belinda Todd.
The End of an Era
The closure of SPQR marks the end of an era for Ponsonby Road and Auckland’s dining scene. The restaurant was more than just a place to eat; it was a cultural institution that played a pivotal role in the city’s social fabric. As SPQR closes its doors, it leaves behind a legacy of joy, celebration, and community that will be remembered by many.
SOURCE: NZHERALD