1 / 3 St Marys Road,
Ponsonby
Auckland,
(09) 376 6092
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The Ponsonby
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The Ponsonby is 'o for awesome'. Best beer in Auckland by a long shot and the moulles frites (mussels and fries) are the go - perfect for a sunny afternoon.
I went to The Ponsonby along with a couple of visiting Poms earlier this week. They felt like something different, as they'd been backbacking through South America for the last five months and a Belgian restaurant was as good as any.
The food was good, however, I think I overdid it on the platter of Baked mussels, and I thought the generous portions were reasonably priced. It was obvious the Poms enjoyed theres too, which was great.
What we didn't like about The Ponsonby, however, was the over-attentive staff. Basically we all felt like they were on commission per pint as they were pouring drinks down our throats!
I would go back to The Ponsonby, but only if I was thirsty!
I can vaguely remember the post office actually being open once, but it seemed to have been closed forever. I’d never been inside the old building before, so I’m not sure what are original features (which I guess is testament to the new Belgian pub fit-out). Ornate ceilings and chandeliers with oak panelled walls create a grand old pub atmosphere. There’s also a garden bar with open fireplace to keep smokers happy. This was an after-work on a Friday visit and the place seemed to fill in the time it took to drink a couple of Stellas.
My only complaint about the Belgian bars is the wine glass size beers and the phoney skimming froth off the glass and dipping it in a sink full of water business. A decent pint without the theatrics would go down much better. It’s good to see this stylish old building restored and put to good use.
Every time I go to The Ponsonby, I catch up with friends who I did not expect to see. This Belgian beer bar is fast becoming a Ponsonby local. Stylish inside, and with alfresco dining to boot, you will not be short of finding a spot to sit or stand and enjoy the bustling atmosphere! On the menu: the mussels are a must to try, as are the lamb shanks. The service is very friendly, and most nights, you will even have the front door opened for you. It’s a cool hang out - you really just have to go, everyone else is!
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