Tucked away in a corner of Grey Lynn, Pocket Bar & Kitchen has quietly been going about its business now for two years.
The bar started as a dream amongst local friends – but only really became a reality when the ASB bank in Grey Lynn announced it was closing its’ doors and the iconic corner site became ready for a new adventure.
But it’s not the trendy inner city location that makes Pocket what it is, the secret to its success is its warm and inviting feel – ideal for any occasion. A moment of inspiration saw the sun drenched original carpark at the back of the building as the prime spot to build the Pocket we know today… And build the friends did, as almost all of the bar was handmade locally, more often by friends and family ‘volunteering’ outside of their day jobs.
Quickly up and running, it didn’t take long for Pocket to expand into the historic ASB building to offer a unique private event space, playing host to everything from a 1st to a 60th birthday, along with many product launches, conferences and even a few weddings in between.
One of its calling cards has been the way Pocket has engaged the local neighbourhood with a series of fun and exciting events. Watching classic movies like Pulp Fiction (while you text your drinks order to the bar!), the famed “Pilates and Pinot” evenings, or experiencing some of New Zealand’s best known comedic talent have all become part of the weekly line up.
Perhaps one of the best supported events has been the ‘Dog & Grog” day where Pocket teams up with Vetcare Grey Lynn. Imagine up to 40 dogs of all sizes running riot while their owners catch up over a cold beer. A fantastic sight.
With the community’s continued support, Pocket’s most recent development has been the opening of a sun drenched garden bar. The combination of listening to live music every Sunday while being surrounded by citrus trees and graffiti art has become a must-do for locals and visitors to the area.
It is these elements that have made the local community wrap its arms around Pocket in such a short time. Part eclectic, part craft, part good honest fun, Pocket reflects the changing nature of the Grey Lynn community and its wide range of people and personalities. Like catching up with a good friend over a craft beer or glass of wine, Pocket’s warm welcome has been a wonderful addition to the neighbourhood.
You can keep across all of Pocket’s events on their instagram page @pocketbarandkitchen
They take group bookings of up 50 people within Pocket and private events of up to 100 people in The Bank. Email hello@pocketbar.co.nz to book.
Pocket Bar, 1 Tuarangi Road, Grey Lynn, www.pocketbarandkitchen.co.nz