Smith

I knew it was something special when I heard its name. Smith. Those ‘Sex and the City’-inclined swoon at the mere implication of the name (especially with alcohol), à la Smith Jarrod. Located on the corner of Galway and Commerce Streets – right next to our beloved Britomart - Smith is in the perfect location to personify Auckland.

Two sets of wicker chairs furnish the outside of the bar. Empty wooden birdcages hang from the ceiling. The inviting warmth of heaters invites patrons in on a cold night. My first time with Smith: I hear Britney – I sigh at the thought of another bar filled with Ksubi-clad accountants. To my pleasant surprise, it was a MSTRKRFT remix, and with not a single boring-number-cruncher in sight. Immediately, I am confronted with my own reflection – an ornate mirror greets you at the entrance, which only serves to distract for a second from the amazing décor. Vintage chairs covered in rich velvet, elaborate Turkish carpets, intricate wall papers. A visual feast.
Avec De La Croix, we ordered several drinks. Brought to us by a very friendly barman – with fabuleux hair - the Naughty Melon was Victoria’s favorite, while I enjoyed the most popular drink at Smith: Sour Apples.

Spied at the back of the drinks menu was Smith’s ‘High Tea’ menu. Consequently, a little afternoon delight with Smith was arranged.

Mismatched china, and dainty teaspoons – Victoria and I felt a little under-dressed as we sat and enjoyed tiny cupcakes and Belgian biscuits at Smith one fine afternoon. Fabuleux-haired bartender doubles as a barista: impressive. Alas, no aspartame-enriched sweetener was available, and with both Victoria and I watching our expanding girths our beverages went unsweetened – which was fine, as our surroundings offered opulence that sugar couldn’t.

Recently, the Sunday Star Times gave this recent addition to the Auckland night scene a 1.5/5. The Whalingship team and I were appalled. The difference between us and Lady Johns, it seems, is that we have taste: we believe that aesthetic is a whole package, and that pretentiousness has no place in OUR city. Pseudo-vintage surroundings and quirky staff add to a unique experience. An experience that adds character not only to the bar; but also to Auckland’s nightlife. In the words of Miley Cyrus: I can’t wait to see you again.