Flight 605

Flight 605 is a small hole in the wall bar in Morningside, close enough to the city to be convenient, but far enough away to feel like a neighbourhood hangout.

It started off as a wine bar, but after discovering that the locals had more of a taste for hops than fermented grapes, owners Simone, Gary, and John have let it transform into quite the craft beer hangout. The fridge is a sight to behold, filled with over 60 craft beers on a revolving roster, local brews are given pride of place. There is also a substantial range of wines to choose from.

With Gary and John having many, many years experience as flight attendants, the fit out is aviation inspired and the service is pretty special. Regulars have come to include flight attendants from near and far looking for something a little different on their Auckland stopovers. Tales are told, and bits and pieces of airline memorabilia and old uniforms fill the walls. There are comfy couches to sit on, and a sneaky courtyard out the back to catch up with old mates and perhaps even make some new ones.

The food menu is fairly standard, small bites to accompany the brews. Also they have free popcorn (!). Wednesday is chicken wing night ($10 for a large bowl of chicken wings. You choose the level of spice). There are live acoustic performances on the regular, information of which they post on their Facebook page.

Its all very homely, the kind of spot you need not worry about keeping up appearances. We'll be back.