110 Ponsonby Road,
Ponsonby
Auckland,


(09) 376 6477

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2 out of 5

Back when I was an impressionable Wellingtonian, I remember visiting Bolliwood while staying with my sister in her tiny Herne Bay pad.

Strangely, we were there for a drink rather than the food that this Ponsonby landmark is more widely known for.

Now an Auckland resident, I felt it was only fair to see how Bolliwood has matured over the years—and if it still had appeal as a bar along this highly competitive piece of real estate.

So, donning our glad rags and with the same sister (and partners) in tow, we ventured into Bolliwood on Saturday.

Initially choosing a seat outside, avoiding the mouth-watering wafts from the curries, we were promptly served by a youngish (and attractive) waiter.

The Oyster Bay and Church Road varieties are given free reign here and at $9 a glass are reasonable. Don’t get me wrong—the wine list isn’t limited to these usual suspects; in fact, the list is actually quite good and features a couple of labels of each variety by the glass and by the bottle.

By 11ish, there was another smallish group seated outside just having a drink, but with the exception of a few at the bar, we appeared to be the only sole drinkers. This is where I think the marriage between bar and eating house is somewhat strained.

As a restaurant there is little doubt that Bolliwood has done well for itself, but as a bar—well I’m nowhere near as convinced.

The addition of glitter balls, wall to wall Bollywood films/soundtracks and coloured lighting in the windows (this is not Amsterdam and more suited to an entirely different industry I would have thought) are all a bit to gimmicky for my liking.

Also, with the exception of the outside seating, there is no real distinction between where the drinkers and diners should be. Certainly not propped at the bar being sorely tempted by the Indian offerings—or maybe that’s their trick?

Tastes and attitudes do change, and so does the competition. As a purely drinking venue, Bolliwood wouldn’t be on my recommended list, however if a Vindaloo’s your thing then by all means pay Bolliwood a visit.