The Wild Journal

Stories, recipes, and behind the scenes

Featured post
Food April 25, 2026

The 12-Hour Broth: Inside Our Pho Kitchen

Every bowl of pho at Jungle 8 starts the night before. Our head chef takes you through the ritual of building a broth that has become the backbone of our menu -- from charred bones to star anise, cinnamon, and 12 hours of patience.

Read More
Blog post
Cocktails Apr 20, 2026

5 Vietnamese Herbs That Changed Our Bar Menu

From lemongrass to perilla leaf, how traditional herbs are reshaping cocktail culture at Jungle 8.

Blog post
Events Apr 15, 2026

DJ Saigon Soul: The Sound of Friday Nights

Meet the resident DJ who blends Vietnamese folk samples with deep house to create Jungle 8's signature sound.

Blog post
Food Apr 10, 2026

Charcoal vs Gas: Why We Grill the Old Way

Our grillmaster explains why Jungle 8 insists on traditional charcoal for every piece of protein that hits the flame.

Blog post
Culture Apr 5, 2026

Street Food Origins: From Bui Vien to Elliott St

The journey from Saigon's most famous party street to Auckland's Elliott Stables, and how we kept the spirit alive.

Blog post
Cocktails Mar 28, 2026

Bottomless Brunch: What You Need to Know

Our Saturday brunch has become Auckland's worst-kept secret. Here's the insider guide to making the most of it.

Blog post
News Mar 20, 2026

Jungle 8 Named Best New Restaurant 2026

We're honoured to be recognised by Metro Magazine as Auckland's Best New Restaurant for 2026.

Blog post
Food Mar 15, 2026

The Art of the Banh Mi: Our Baker's Story

Hand-made baguettes, baked fresh daily. Meet the baker who brings Saigon's crispiest bread to Auckland.

Blog post
Events Mar 8, 2026

Tet Festival at Jungle 8: A Recap

How we celebrated Vietnamese New Year with a sold-out feast, lion dancers, and 200 lucky envelopes.

Blog post
Culture Mar 1, 2026

Why "Stay Wild" Is More Than a Slogan

The philosophy behind Jungle 8 -- embracing chaos, rejecting pretension, and celebrating the untamed spirit of Vietnamese street food.