Shelly-Ann S.
Yelp
If you are looking to find Frieda Margolis you won't see any signage. Well only for West Lynn Organic Meats who used to occupy this spot on the corner of Richmond and Hakanoa Streets. Just look for the happy people hanging out in the butchery. There's also a couple of outside tables which are always well utilised.
We've been here on a Saturday afternoon and a Sunday night and both times there have been several other small groups of patrons coming and going. So far it seems a bit of a pop-in for one or two kind of place and even if you're not local, make the effort to visit.
The real charm is the owner/operator who has really taken the time to source unusual top quality ingredients and design drinks (and a few food items) around them. There's Day of the Dead Chilli beer from Wellington, Honey Spiced Rum and exciting combos as per the Frieda Punch made with 666 vermouth and pomegranate served in a wee jug with my new obsession, fresh mint. My very first drink here though was (of course) the Frieda Margolis; a taste sensation of Lime, Chilli, more of that 666 Vodka mixed with Hakanoa Ginger Beer. This is the kind of place you'll want to try everything so do pace yourself and visit often!
We didn't eat but did see what I think was the Chicken Fez to delivered to another couple - priced well and it looked and smelled delicious. The soundtrack is laidback cool and if you're lucky, the owner may bust out some jazz piano. He is possibly a bit sick of explaining who Frieda is but ask him anyway because hey, he did name his bar after her. We love this place - it's probably more for the grown-ups than the funky kids which is all good with me.