Ginger Minx
A suburban legend.
Overview
If you're up to get loose on the weekend or a quiet one during the week, Ginger Minx’s kitschy approach to just about everything will show you a good time almost any night of the week.
The suburban club is tucked away in the heart of Dominion Road and treads a similar path to the former bastion of underground hip hop, Rakino’s (RIP). It attracts a rather a wide range of clientele; from after-work drinkers to music enthusiasts and hang-a-bouts. However, the place is so dark so you won't feel too intimidated by the cool crowd hanging out in the shadows.
The ornate furnishings of this dimly lit retreat include several chandeliers, worn couches and the nice touch of a real open fire; while the outside area is like a tiki bar-cum-gangsters paradise with cane furnishings, festoon lighting and pristine street-art. Either way, you'll be constantly distracted by the intricate detail of the décor.
More tailored for an informal bevy rather than a meal out, the bar keeps its punters satisfied by pumping out a selection of classic drinking snacks, think: prawn twisters, chicken wings, fries, calamari. There are six pizzas to choose from, all with a generous price tag of $7. The bases are plump and soft and come with enough toppings to chase that last drink. There’s also generously heaped tacos in three varieties. The pulled pork comes slathered in an intense BBQ sauce, which will have you reaching for a napkin. While they won’t be winning awards for their culinary finesse, the drinks taste like they should and the cocktail menu shouldn’t be overlooked.
Taking things up a notch in the weekend, the Ginger Minx becomes Mt Eden's party central and regularly hosts an eclectic bill of DJs. If you have a mainstream state of mind, don’t expect to recognise any of the songs booming out from the sound system. But rest assured, by the end of the night you’ll probably find yourself in the DJs ear with a pen and paper trying to collate your own eclectic playlist. And, if you want to take it one step further, you can always take part in the bar's weekly open decks night and show off your newfound ear for good music. No button smashers allowed.