Every so often you come across a real gem on Ponsonby Road, this happened to me, when I found T_art Patisserie. Owned and operated by Zino Kim, the taste and presentation of these tarts, is out of this world. If you miss out experiencing one of Zino’s tarts, trust me, you are missing a real treat.
Are your tarts hand made?
All of our tarts and every single components are made completely from scratch right here in the shop.
Why did you become a pastry chef?
When I first came to New Zealand, I was blown away by the beautiful desserts at the first place I worked. They were so pretty that I immediately decided I had to learn how to make them myself.
Tell us about your journey to New Zealand?
With just one semester left before graduating university in Korea, I was terrified of facing the reality of job hunting. So, I escaped on a working holiday to Australia. Seeing people live with such a relaxed and bright attitude, unlike the fast-paced life in Korea, I vaguely started dreaming of building a life and a family abroad. Before settling down, I wanted to see more of the world, so I did a 5-week, 23,000km road trip across Australia, traveled through South America for six months, and finally arrived in New Zealand on a working holiday visa with exactly $600 to my name. I started as a dishwasher and worked my way through various cafes, bakeries, and hotels. Meeting different people and building my experience, I always imagined that one day, I would open my own shop infused with my own philosophy.
Your tarts cover a wide range of flavours, how do you come up with these ideas?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature. I focus on what I call the "season core"—using the absolute best seasonal ingredients nature provides—and I draw a lot of inspiration from flowers. I like to bring their colors and characteristics to life, almost as if our tarts are small blooming flowers.
Best thing about Ponsonby?
I love the relaxed vibe that comes from the neighbourhood, the positive mindset of the people around here, and the fact that it’s such an old-fashioned yet trendy place.
How did you survive the pandemic?
I survived on Netflix and YouTube! Honestly, I had been working non-stop for a long time before that, so I actually loved the break at first. But later on, I lost my job, and when the subsidies ended, I just sent my CV anywhere that would let me work. I went to interviews and just pushed through to make a living however I could.
Bucket list?
To see the Baobab trees in Africa.
Best day of your life to-date?
27 April, 2017—the day I climbed Machu Picchu.
If you were reincarnated, what would you be?
A Bernese Mountain Dog.
Like to be remembered how?
As the great listener.
What do you like about your age?
The fact that I’m still at an age where it’s perfectly fine to just enjoy life.
Something you disapprove of?
Double standards—when someone else is allowed to do something, but I’m told I can’t.
Biggest disappointment?
Refusing to admit that I was avoiding things out of fear, telling everyone I was "fine," and just hoping for some unearned luck to magically happen.
Ever seen a ghost?
Never, but I’d honestly love to meet one someday.
Give your teenaged self some advice?
You really didn't need to start smoking. (I don’t smoke anymore )
Greatest fear?
Running out of energy or inspiration for the things I would love to challenge myself with.
Favorite hero of fiction?
The Weasley twins from Harry Potter. They always look at things in such a funny, lighthearted way.
Handshake or hug kind of person?
I’m getting to be more of a hugger these days!
Best thing your parents taught you?
Money never comes from nothing.
How would your friends describe you in three words?
Passionate, routine-oriented, and a freak!
Favourite TV series?
Game of Thrones. The delicate emotions portrayed by each character, the politics, the inside stories, the easter eggs... personally, I think it’s a masterpiece with the most perfect completeness.
If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?
The removal of the FIF (Foreign Investment Fund) tax, or at least increasing the threshold up to a $200,000 investment scale per person.
T_art Patisserie, 295 Ponsonby Road
