Luke Dallow
Luke Dallow is a seasoned hospitality entrepreneur known for his innovative contributions to Auckland's bar and restaurant scene. At 52, he is launching GiGi Bar and Restaurant in collaboration with former broadcaster Thane Kirby, transforming the iconic Ponsonby Road Bistro into a vibrant space that emphasizes celebration, escapism, and French flair. Dallow's extensive experience includes notable establishments like Sale Street and Chapel Bar and Bistro, with a career spanning over three decades. His recent focus on real estate has led him back to hospitality at a time when he believes the market is ripe for new ventures.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
The news comes two weeks after restaurateur Luke Dallow announced he had sold his Ponsonby Rd restaurant GiGi less than a year after opening.
Auckland restaurant Cassia closing at SkyCity, moving to a new location
New Zealand· 2026-02-25
Luke Dallow did just that for his new Ponsonby Rd bistro, Gigi.
Jesse Mulligan Auckland Restaurant Review: Gao In Albany’s Asian Fusion Menu Displays ‘Real Magic’ In The KitchenNew Zealand· 2025-08-13
Luke Dallow asked AI to create his restaurant's new menu for his bistro, Gigi.
Jesse Mulligan Auckland Restaurant Review: Returning To The Grill SkyCity A Year After A ‘Terrible’ MealNew Zealand· 2025-08-06Luke Dallow created a new menu for his bistro using AI.
Jesse Mulligan Auckland Restaurant Review: Nomiya’s Japanese Snack Bites Are Works Of ArtNew Zealand· 2025-07-30Luke Dallow created a new menu for his Ponsonby Rd bistro, Gigi, using AI.
Jesse Mulligan Auckland Restaurant Review: Palato In Browns Bay Has The Best Pasta Menu In The CityNew Zealand· 2025-07-23
Luke Dallow is the co-owner of Gigi, a new bistro in Ponsonby that employs AI for menu creation.
Jesse Mulligan Auckland Restaurant Review: Gigi Is Ponsonby Rd’s New Bistro On The BlockNew Zealand· 2025-07-16
Luke Dallow is one of the new owners of the restaurant Gigi, which reopened after Ponsonby Road Bistro closed.
Candela restaurant on Karangahape Rd to shut doors after unexpected offerNew Zealand· 2025-07-01
Dallow is turning the bistro into Gigi Bar and Restaurant, promising celebration and escapist vibes.
Society Insider: Luke Dallow, Thane Kirby new owners of Ponsonby Road Bistro; Sleepyhead daughter Natalie Norman’s business inspiration; Property guru Greg Munt’s Happiness ProjectNew Zealand· 2025-04-23
