Bar review: Molten, Mt Eden

Drinks at Molten. Photo / Lydia Jenkin

Address: 422 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden
Rating:

First drinks: were a lovely glass of Spanish bubbles and a refreshing rosé. We were there for a girly catch-up, so they were also our second drinks, but the wine list is extensive, and they've got many, many beer options by the bottle (craft and European), or Peroni and Gisborne Gold on tap. There's also a well-crafted selection of cocktails.

The vibe: is relaxed but classy. There's table service, the staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and the courtyard out the back is a perfect summer oasis - although it wasn't quite summer temperatures when we visited and the waitress very obligingly moved a gas heater closer to us without being asked.

The bathrooms: are upstairs, and well-kept, like someone's home bathroom.

On the stereo: was some nondescript and non-intrusive background jazz. In fact, it was barely audible in the courtyard, which was perfect for a long conversation

Room for improvement: they've done so well with the extensive wine and beer option, it would be nice to see a couple more cider options available. It's a small quibble though when they've got Hallertau cider available.

The perfect spot: to take a stroll up Mt Eden and then come down to Molten for a refreshment and a snack - their pizzas are delicious, as are the crinkle-cut hot chips with black truffle aioli. You can get a peek of the Mt Eden peak from the courtyard.

Most redeeming feature: The staff who were on the evening we visited were super-lovely and obliging, and the courtyard wasn't too busy so we felt we had plenty of privacy.