Gypsy Tea Rooms

**Gypsy Tea Rooms
**by The Auckland Psychogeographer

The West Lynn shops are rapidly becoming a microclimate unto themselves. Weeks go by, and denizens of the Richmond Road belt need never venture out of their little bubble for essentials like kumara bread and avocado, yoga mats, baby onesies, gluten-free shampoo and gin. One of the pioneers of the West Lynn vibe is assuredly the Gypsy Tea Rooms, a furtive little late night corner bar, with fairy lights outside and a hint of candlelight within. There’s a smoky, gentleman’s club or speakeasy atmosphere here - decadent, convivial and with a certain illicitness.

Architecturally The GTR features a tiled ceiling, ornate wrought iron here and there, a fireplace in the small back function room, and unpretentious wooden furniture. There’s a modest tapas menu, but alcohol is the focal point, with classic cocktails and straightforward wine and beer. This seems to be the spot for advertising people, sports agents, film crews, and a very healthy scene on Mondays and Tuesdays of hospitality orphans.

A mix of slightly classy and more than slightly raucous, the Gypsy Tea Rooms has personality in droves, and that treasured Auckland quality - outdoor seating with a view. It may only be the buzzy comings and goings of Richmond Road, but these days that’s more than plenty.

Image Credits: The Auckland Psychogeographer