Having a good local is high on our priority list. The term gastropub conjures up romantic images of frothing icy-cold pints, finger-licking bites topped off with a relaxed and convivial environment — a far cry from the tragic cigarette-tainted pubs of the past. One thing for certain, is that we’re not seeing them pop up as frequently as we’d like. So when we discovered that Malt bar in Grey Lynn had changed hands and been treated to a complete overhaul, we jumped at the chance to check it out.

Located on the corner of Richmond Road and Hakanoa Streets, Malt Public House has all the new ingredients to cement itself as our favourite local. The extensive renovation took six months to complete and includes a relocation of the bar and kitchen, an extension of the interior space, as well as an upgrade to the courtyard, now festooned with lights adding to the ambience of the roaring fireplace.

Offering lunch, bites, and dinner (and soon brunch — hello Bloody Marys), the menu is the classic pub fare executed with finesse. Some of the highlights from the grazing options include a rainbow beetroot and goats cheese terrine with honeycomb and pickled ginger, moreish pork belly cubes with parsnip puree and carrot reduction and not to mention the confit duck poutine, a sublime amalgamation of French fries and cheese generously topped with a light brown gravy. On the more substantial side, as well as delicious burgers, a pie will be on weekly rotation (think beef bourguignon creamy mash and sauteed cabbage) as well as some of the meanest fish n’ chips in town. You also can’t go wrong when choosing from their Grill section as we hear the Argentinean head chef is known for his ways with a steak.

Perhaps one of the most exciting prospects of this new watering hole is the high level of service one can expect. Experienced staff await, imparting impressive knowledge regarding the food and wine — which by the way has been expertly picked with the help of the wine connoisseurs at Maison Vauron — and who greet you by name, pouring your favourite drop before you’ve even had a chance to sit down. It’s the sort of place you’ll want to keep coming back to, and with the weekly changing menu, regular patrons will never get bored.

Open 7 days 11am — late.