Welcome to Beast and Butterflies, an exceptional Auckland restaurant that invites you on an unforgettable culinary journey. Situated in the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, our restaurant offers stunning waterfront views, creating the perfect backdrop for a remarkable dining experience. Whether you’re joining us for a delightful lunch or indulgent dinner, our menu showcases a tantalizing fusion of flavors crafted with the freshest locally sourced ingredients.

Led by our esteemed Executive Chef Top Lorthae and his talented team, our culinary expertise spans continents, with experience garnered from renowned establishments, including Michelin-starred restaurants. Chef Lorthae’s creative flair and meticulous attention to detail shine through as he presents a menu that reflects the best of Auckland’s dining scene.

At Beast and Butterflies, we pride ourselves on providing a space that exudes relaxation and sophistication. Our stylish and contemporary decor sets the stage for a memorable dining experience, where you can unwind and savor every moment.

To complement your meal, our extensive wine list showcases a curated selection of local and international wines. Our sommeliers are on hand to guide you towards the perfect pairing, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Immerse yourself in the epitome of waterfront dining at Beast and Butterflies. With our commitment to culinary excellence, impeccable service, and breathtaking views, we invite you to indulge your senses and create lasting memories with us. Book your table now and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Top Lorthae

Executive Chef

Growing up in rural town in Thailand Top was taught how to cook from a young age by his grandmother. Before he knew it, cooking became a career that he is very passionate about. Rustic Asian street food is his pride and roots, and European cuisine is his passion and adventure. In 2000, Top emigrated to his new home – Aotearoa, where he began his professional culinary journey. Top gained his formal training at Auckland’s University of Technology, then got his foot in the door at White Restaurant in Hilton, Auckland in 2004 working under renowned chef, Geoff Scott.

He later furthered his career at Glass Brasserie, Hilton in Sydney working under Michelin starred chef, Luke Mangan; as well as a few other large establishments including 360 Bar and Dining on Sydney Tower. After travelling around Europe, he returned to Aotearoa working as Sous Chef at Mollies Boutique Hotel in Herne Bay, a Relais & Chateaux hotel. His adventure then continued to well-renowned restaurants such as Sails Restaurant and Ostro Brasserie & Bar. He worked as a Senior Sous Chef at Ostro for 3.5 years before joining the team at Beast & Butterflies at M Social Auckland.

Rainer Czar Urquiza

Restaurant Manager

Rainer’s hospitality career has taken him across cultures, continents, and a wide range of service environments — from managing high-volume restaurant operations in Dubai with Mafaza Dessert Ostrich Company, to leading dynamic Restaurant & Bar teams in New Zealand. He takes pride in creating exceptional guest experiences and driving operational excellence in every role he has undertaken.

With extensive hands-on management experience, Rainer has developed strong capabilities in leading multicultural teams, optimising operations, and fostering a culture of genuine, heartfelt service. His achievements include elevating service standards, implementing efficient systems that enhanced overall performance, and consistently delivering outstanding guest satisfaction results.

Before beginning his international career, Rainer completed his university studies in the Philippines and refined his passion for hospitality across Southeast Asia — experiences that deepened his appreciation for cultural diversity and different service philosophies.

Rainer thrives in hospitality because it is ever-evolving and endlessly creative. It motivates him to keep learning, connecting, and finding new ways to create meaningful, memorable moments for guests from all walks of life.