Address: Ponsonby Central, 4 Brown St
Rating:
First drinks: Looked like they would take a while, given the vast quantity of people milling about the bar. Outside, it was standing room only. But as we approached the bar, an attentive server subtly pushed two drinks menus in our direction and pointed out a couple of spare seats at the window. From there, we were treated to constant and attentive table service.
The vibe is: A busy mix of families with young kids out for dinner, mates catching up for drinks and couples out on date night. It's fun and just a little frantic, which only adds to its charm.
It smells of: The mouth-watering aroma of the Argentinian barbecue house next door. Ponsonby residents will know the scent all too well, as it wafts deliciously around the Richmond Rd intersection.
On the stereo: A great mix of soul-soaked funk, including some classic Aretha, courtesy of a live DJ. It was possibly a touch too loud for those trying to hold coherent conversations but we'll forgive anyone who dusts out some old Ace of Base for a spin.
