Freida Margolis

**Freida Margolis
** by The Auckland Psychogeographer

Once upon a time this bar was a respected butcher’s, serving the community since before the streets were asphalted, since before the local cinema opened (and closed), and when the tramline came (and went). Time passed, the butcher’s fortunes ebbed and flowed, and even though sausages were $19.99 a kilogram in 2013, the profit margin wasn’t quite cutting the mustard. An enterprising young adman, piano player and bicycle enthusiast stepped in, and soon enough the space was reinvented with beautiful vintage tiling, new bar and kitchen, plus upright piano and turntable.

When Freida Margolis threw her arms open to the neighbourhood, the ladies of Grey Lynn took note, and a modicum of rosé was ordered. It’s a popular happy hour place, and well attended by many of the theatre, film and TV industry locals. The joint retains reverence for the history of the place, with a new faux-neon sign oddly affixed atop the organic butchery signage. Freida’s is consistently popular, always a fun crowd, and boasts New Yorker magazines, great wines, pro pizzas and the neighbourhood’s most authentic craft beer range.

The owner’s former life as a cruise ship pianist is expressed via regular live music events - mostly folk and jazz with a smattering of pop; coincidentally, the offices of the body representing the record industry is next door. Mike always has good records spinning, and a beautiful framed poster of iconic New Orleans piano hustler James Booker.**
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Image Credits: The Auckland Psychogeographer