Flatiron Side Door

If ever there was a wine bar you'd be happy to call home, Flatiron Side Door is it. Two years of careful restoration by owners Ben and Emma Bangay has transformed the space into a light, bright locals' oasis, complete with a hand-carved bar, artwork-covered walls, and a stunning, magnolia-lined (dog friendly) wine garden for those lazy afternoon sips.

Created alongside the bar, is the wine list — which was carefully selected by Ben, with a personal story behind each drop. Homegrown favourites like the Mac Forbes' RS19 Riesling hang out alongside French Burgundies and Italian Soave. The list is backed up by rotation of specialty cocktails, many featuring herbs from the onsite garden. You might find yourself settling in with the Kew Gardens' blend of 666 vodka, rosemary, mint and cucumber, or getting a little adventurous with a round of coffee negronis.

To match, the food menu is one that was made to be enjoyed with a tipple in hand — a concise, snack-happy lineup of salumi and cheese platters, breads and dips, and artisan pizzas.

And those preferring the comfort of their actual home can opt for the Flatiron experience on the run, with a selection of both pizzas and wine available to takeaway.

Image credit: Mandy Couzens