Malt Public House

Overview

Needing little introduction, especially to the locals, Malt Public House is cosy, lively and a very inviting spot; a definite feature of the West Lynn shops.

Very aware that by saying this I run the risk of sounding like a pretentious designer, but there is something about the classic stamp style logo of Malt on Richmond Road in warm, burnt burgundy that encapsulates the vibe and homely feel of this Grey Lynn watering hole just perfectly.

The crowd at Malt is a bit of a dollar mix, which is all part of the charm. The pavement chairs are often found to be occupied by the local youngin's (read: trendy, Grey Lynn hipster), while the inside area plays host to everyone from the post 5pm bevy seekers, couples out romancing to groups getting amongst the feverishly good tapas.

The fit out at Malt is classic and understated. The combination of large sharing tables, stained Kauri floors and a selection of homely, see-it-at-your-rely's-place art, give Malt a chilled and unpretentious feel. The menu echoes this with a solid variety of meals in a bistro-meets-pub style cuisine. Each main encompasses just enough zazz without being overcomplicated on flavor or description.

You'd be easily fooled into thinking that Malt was a small bar, but in actual fact it's a sizable wee joint. The fully enclosed deck out back, which features a louvered roof, almost replicates the entire inside space in size. At the heart of this outdoor area is a natural wood fire place. This, along with the gas lamps, this makes the balcony a perfect retreat on the chillier Winter evenings, while in Summer, when the sun is streaming through the umbrella of the Hakanoa Street trees, sitting out on the deck at Malt sort of feels like hanging out in a tree house.

Malt is where you go when you want to enjoy good wine, food and company. It is great for groups both in set up and what the menu offers. The humble, single door gives little away of what this bar really offers, so it is definitely worth pottering in one evening to experience one of Grey Lynn's little secrets.