ABOUT US
Welcome to Cousin Scott’s — Takapuna’s go-to family restaurant & American sports bar with a honky-tonk twist.
We’re serving up bold Southern-inspired flavours, ice-cold brews, and cocktails that'll have your tastebuds two-stepping. From Nashville hot fried chicken to wings, house pickles, smoked BBQ, and our legendary Philly Cheese Steak, it’s comfort food done right.
Feeling brave? Turn up the heat with six levels of spice — or take on the hottest Nashville chicken sandwich on the Shore (maybe even in NZ) if you dare.
With wall-to-wall TVs, you’ll never miss a game. Add pool tables, arcade games, and a team that feels like family — it’s the perfect spot for catch-ups, date nights, or a good old-fashioned yarn. Just don’t ask us about that one time in Vegas...
Kick back with classic American tunes, from country and Southern rock to sing-along anthems — and on weekends, we crank it up with live bands and DJs.
At Cousin Scott’s — everyone’s family.
Say hello to our Head Coach, Scott Ruddock — the man behind the madness at Cousin Scott’s.
Scott’s hospitality journey began on his 18th birthday, pulling pints at his father’s bar, Liberties American Bar & Brasserie in Arbroath, Scotland. Fittingly, his first venue of his own is also an American-themed bar and restaurant — and the irony isn’t lost on him.
Hospitality runs in the blood, but so does entertainment. Scott is the grandson of legendary All Black Ron Bryers, son of award-winning recording artist Rhonda “The Voice of New Zealand”, and professional wrestler Jock Ruddock of On the Mat fame. It only makes sense that Scott would blend hospitality, sport, and music into something uniquely his own.
Having lived and worked in Hawaii, Scotland, New York, and New Zealand, Scott dreamed of creating more than just a bar or restaurant — he wanted a community hangout where families, friends, and total strangers could gather, connect, and feel at home.
After returning to Auckland, Scott helped launch some of the city’s most iconic spots — including Crab Shack, HeadQuarters, Long Bay Surf Club, and The Lodge Bar by Rodd & Gunn. But Cousin Scott’s is the dream he always wanted to build: a venue inspired by the places that brought people together — where everyone knows your name, or soon will.
Because here at Cousin Scott’s — everyone’s family.
HEAD COACH SCOTT RUDDOCK
At the heart of the kitchen is our Quarterback, executive Chef Renno Paul — calling the plays, firing up the smoker, and leading the charge on Cousin Scott’s bold American fare.
With over 25 years of culinary experience, Renno brings serious talent and passion to the table. He’s a BBQ enthusiast, an award-winning chef, and a proud recipient of multiple culinary medals — including recognition from Hallmark Beef & Lamb for excellence in premium cuts.
Renno’s impressive career includes Head Chef roles at some of New Zealand’s most respected venues, including Merlot Wine Café, Union Post, Monarch, Lava Restaurant, Portahouse Grill, Zookeeper’s Son, Lord Kitchener, Applejacks, and the iconic Food Truck Garage. He’s even flexed his firepower at the Eden Cloak Room, blending creativity with crowd-pleasing flavour.
From our signature smoked BBQ meats to the fiery Nashville hot chicken, Renno and his kitchen team are here to serve up next-level American comfort food — hot, fast, and full of flavour.
QUATERBACK CHEF RENNO PAUL
At Cousin Scott’s, the game runs smoothly under the watchful eye of our Team Captain, Patrick Barcoe — or just PJ, as most know him.
A proud Kilkenny native with over 25 years in hospitality, PJ’s been behind the bar since he was barely tall enough to reach the taps. His career has spanned some of Auckland CBD’s most iconic venues, and he brings with him a deep love for great service, a strong connection to the Takapuna community, and a knack for creating the kind of atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
Well known across the hospo circuit for building loyal teams and even more loyal regulars, PJ brings genuine warmth, leadership, and energy to the floor.
In 2023, PJ completed a Guinness Masterclass with the head brewer of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin — so while he can run a packed venue like clockwork, don’t be surprised if he also pours you the smoothest pint on the Shore.
With PJ at the helm, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome, a proper pour, and a cracking good time.
TEAM CAPTAIN P.J. BARCOE