Harry
Finally, a Ponsonby bar that hosts regular karaoke and trivial pursuit nights.
Overview
Sitting in a spot on Ponsonby Road previously occupied by the short lived STD's (Somewhere To Drink), is a brand new haunt that goes by the name of Harry. In the same way the curiously named STD's didn't take itself awfully seriously, neither does Harry, however Harry has ambitions of sticking around a little longer than its seedy little predecessor. The fit-out is dark and easy, a couple of quirky pieces of art, some greenery, bar leaners, and a cozy sit-down table outside, with the notion that new additions to the wall or furniture could come at any time.
Owners Oliver Driver and Ella Mizrahi are a rather busy couple, but somehow in between creating major art installations, organising large scale events, filming Shortland Street, and directing theatre productions, they have found the time to open a bar. Harry the bar is named after their dog Harry, who in turn was named after Prince Harry. This hat tip can be seen in the small crown on their sign outside. Who knows, perhaps Prince Harry himself will stop by for a mojito when he's in town. It would be a little rude not to.
With little hospo experience between the owners, Harry is simple and fun, which is its best asset. There is no pretense, its is a refreshing change in an area like Ponsonby. The cocktail menu carries on the simple theme, its straight to the point, but has everything you need. My pick would be the Dark N Stormy ($16) which owner Ella described as "rum, ginger beer, and a shitload of lime".
On Wednesdays there is trivial pursuit, outsmart owner Olly or resident music man Nick D and you will have yourself a free drink. On Tuesdays there are weekly chats and talks from interesting locals, past speakers have included Labour MP Jacinda Ardern and Deanna Young from Moustache Milk & Cookie Bar. Sunday is Harry-Oke night with Karaoke Dick, starting at 8pm its a dangerous time of the week for seven or eight cocktails but it highlights the sort of crowd that will be attracted to Harry: creative, unpretentious, and open to the idea that quite possibly anything could happen.
Information
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