The Franklin

The Franklin Tap House & Eatery, Ponsonby - Bar Review

Vibe

Formerly the sometimes dingy Sponge Bar, The Franklin’s been redesigned as a modern and spacious interpretation of a traditional Kiwi pub. Smart design with lots of communal spaces means chatting to your neighbours comes pretty naturally. The leafy courtyard is a real surprise along Ponsonby Rd.

Service

Friendly and easygoing, and really reinforcing The Franklin’s aim to be a neighbourhood local.

What's On Tap?

The Monteith’s range along with Heineken and Tiger. Unfortunately the range of bottled beers is equally devoid of any brews of New Zealand’s smaller craft breweries.

Feeling peckish?

Yummy shared plates – called ‘Communals’ at The Franklin - including well-priced prawns and squid ($14), and chilli or salt and pepper popcorn ($6). More substantial meals include beef burgers with creamy gruyere cheese in a brioche bun ($18) and wild boar sausages and mash ($22).

The Bottom Line

The Franklin combines an easygoing and unpretentious ambience with some of the city’s best pub food.

A Reason to Return

For The Franklin’s regular Sunday roast ($24) and the opportunity to meet Ponsonby locals on the big shared table.

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