Molten Restaurant and Liquid Molten are owned and operated by Belinda and Mike Van de Elzen. Mike runs the Kitchen whilst Belinda runs the front of house and together they have designed both the Bar and the restaurant.
Molten has recently won the award for Neighbourhood Restaurant of the Year and we feel fortunate to have them in our neighbourhood.
The interview is with Belinda Van de Elzen
What is your business in Mt Eden?
We run a restaurant and a bar.
What do you see your shop as providing to the Village?
An upmarket restaurant and bar with a local feel.
How long have you been in the Village?
The restaurant has been open 4 1/2 years and the bar 1 year.
How do you think the Village differs from other shopping centres?
It has an intimate feel. It is a small compact area of shopping and has a real heart. I think it is unique in Auckland.
What do you enjoy most about Mt Eden Village?
The local people and a very supportive business atmosphere.
Where you born in New Zealand?
Yes.
If you weren't running a restaurant what would you do?
I would be a gardener. Gardens are my passion.
What is your idea of great food?
Seafood is my favourite. When we eat with friends it's usually a barbeque. We love smoky food and a barbeque is fun and easy.
What is your favourite meal of the day and why?
Dinner. As an ex chef I like to cook rather than eat out. I like simple food with a well dressed salad. I am careful about eating in a balanced way.
What would you call a great holiday?
Overseas, but quiet with no phones ringing. Being interested in food we like to travel in the countryside and see how local food is produced.
If you had to give up everything and choose one thing (object not person) to keep what would it be?
My mother pearls given to her by my grandfather. I wore them on our Wedding day.
Interview: Maureeen Keene. Photo: Jocelen Janon www.gotya.co.nz
website by jocelen janon www.gotya.co.nz - copyright ©2008 Mount Eden Business Association. Auckland - NZ -
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