Fresh from winning Best Bartender at the 2025 Lewisham Awards, Theo Tjandra has opened Truth or Dare—a daring new cocktail bar in Auckland's Snickel Lane that blends sustainability, innovation, and nostalgic flavours into something truly special.
Born in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, Theo moved to New Zealand at 18 to study hospitality management and has since risen through Auckland's bar scene, with stints at Miann, Orleans, Parasol & Swing, Panacea, and Goblin. His new venture with chef Yovin Sius represents the culmination of years of craft and creativity.
"Opening Truth or Dare has always been a dream—it's the first step towards building a hospitality group," Theo explains. "The concept blends inspiration from the bars I've worked at and visited overseas, with a focus on sustainability, thoughtful design, and a menu that's both playful and refined."
The bar's name reflects its philosophy: Truth represents transparency, from the open bar layout to honest hospitality, while Dare encourages guests to try something unexpected and adventurous. The drinks menu ditches classic cocktails in favour of four themed sections including signature drinks Theo has developed over years of international guest shifts.
Standouts include the Ferrero Rocher—a clever dessert-like blend of The Macallan whisky with vermouth, clarified hazelnut and Milo malt chocolate, topped with gold foil. The Matcha Fizz cocktail arrives paired with a red bean and matcha cream-filled brandy snap.
Chef Yovin Sius's food menu draws on childhood memories reimagined with elegance, including Rice Pop Chicken coated in puffed rice and makrut lime salt, and sticky lamb skewers glazed in soy caramel. It's comfort with a thrill—matching the bar's adventurous spirit.
"We've exceeded expectations and we're excited to keep pushing boundaries," says Theo. "This is just the beginning."