As the world shifts into post-pandemic recovery mode, homegrown franchise Lone Star has launched its first hotel restaurant within the Mercure Auckland Queen Street hotel.
COVID-19 has brought about many unprecedented challenges to the hospitality landscape in the past few years, and there is now a desperate need to bring the central city back to life.
Lone Star sees this as a tremendous growth opportunity for its new Queen Street franchise and plans to lead the resurgence of restaurants.
Lone Star National Operations Manager, Paul Steiner
“The borders are opening, and we want to be at the forefront of welcoming tourists and Kiwis alike back into the CBD – who better to start the charge?” said Paul Steiner, National Operations Manager, Lone Star.
Like businesses across the country, Lone Star restaurants have been heavily impacted by the pandemic and face significant staff shortages due to Omicron.
Redneck Ribs
However, the brand has continued operating during these turbulent times thanks to its loyal customer base and ‘world-famous in New Zealand’ menu items, such as the Dixie Chicken and Redneck Ribs.
“Kiwis [New Zealanders] always have the appetite for a quality meal and an unpretentious night out.”
“You don’t stay in business for decades without innovating, and the Queen Street restaurant is an exciting expansion for the business – bringing classic Lone Star dishes to more Kiwis and introducing them to tourists from abroad at the same time,” said Steiner.
Located inside Mercure Auckland Queen Street with ground floor access, the new 50-seat boutique restaurant and bar is open to the public and hotel guests. Room service is also available for guests while click and collect, and delivery via Uber Eats and Delivereasy are available to the public.
According to Amanda Evans, Manager of the Mercure Auckland Queen Street, the partnership with Lone Star was a no-brainer.
“Lone Star is an iconic homegrown brand, and we’re thrilled to share a real taste of New Zealand with our international visitors and travelling Kiwis alike.”
The new onsite restaurant will offer guests a range of New Zealand classics, including the Lone Star originals Dixie Chicken, Lassoo of Hog, and the Johnny Cash Stash.
The new opening joins five other properties in Auckland and a further 18 across New Zealand.
