Mea Culpa

I had only heard good things about Mea Culpa. But I was greeted with contemptuous service.

An old friend of mine and I ordered a reasonably priced wine from the bar. First off, the barman tried to pour a more expensive drop. When we insisted on what we had asked for, he treated us as second class citizens for the rest of the night. It was only until we had racked up over $60 on a tab that we realised we were getting below par service. While we weren't ordering the most expensive thing on the menu, my friend and I had intended to stay for the long haul, based on recommendations. However, once we knew we had been typecast as cheap skates, and treated accordingly, we were gone.

The choice of an inexpensive wine can be because of a number of factors. Sometimes, it's because you're there for the long haul. When you're treated badly for choosing it, you decide to take your long term patronage elsewhere. I share this review because I want to warn others of this snobbish establishment.

I came here with my parter and what a treat. We only intended on having a drink post dinner but wound up staying for hours. If you haven't been to Mea Culpa before the bar staff are a passionate and knowledgeable bunch. The girl who worked there was very enthusiastic and we really appreciated her taking the time to explain the thought behind the drinks list and made us some delicious cocktails. Although It has to be said the tequila drink the manager made was the winner on the day. This little gem comes highly recommended, the list they informed me is constantly changing. So go and use this as an excuse to go as often Mea Culpa as you like, I will be.

Outstanding, Absolutely Outstanding.
World Class Cocktails and the Couple that work there are this years 42Below Cocktail World Cup Team.
Expect nothing but the best from them and the very best in New Zealand from Tim Martin.
I've never been so impressed with knowledge and taste in my life.

Looking for a spot to sit and have a cheeky drink at any stage of the day? Mea Culpa is your spot! You will be welcomed by friendly bar staff and while you mull over what to drink you are given some ‘treats’ to enjoy. On the nights I have been, I have had things from salmon savouries to buja mix. An extensive wine list and well equipped cocktail shelf means no complaints on choice. It’s a nice atmosphere and will certainly be better in summer than winter –but, hey, it’s cool, it’s funky and it’s Ponsonby!