About Freida Margolis
Freida Margolis is a cozy laneway bar and live-music venue in Grey Lynn, Auckland, housed in a former butcher’s shop. Owner Mike Howie opened the bar in 2012, and the old “West Lynn Organic Meats” sign still hangs outside as a nod to its 118-year-old building . It’s known as a laid-back, eclectic neighbourhood spot – frequented by locals for quality craft beers, wine and cocktails in a rustic setting . The name “Freida Margolis” reportedly comes from a woman the owner met in Colombia , making the venue’s name as quirky as its character. Inside you’ll find an upright piano (often played by Mike) and even a stash of vintage vinyl records – part of its uniquely intimate, old-world vibe . Over the past decade Freida has become a staple of Auckland’s scene – Metro magazine noted it’s “always a reliably fun place, with the crowd spilling out onto the street” for jazz, funk or soul – and local press calls it a “significant venue for local musicians” .
Events and Programming
Freida Margolis hosts live music almost every week. The mainstay is its intimate jazz and acoustic nights (often on Thursdays) where local artists perform for a small cover. For example, UnderTheRadar lists “Jazz Thursday” sessions with 6pm doors and 8pm shows, entry $5 . Beyond jazz, Freida books singer-songwriters, soul and funk acts, and even stand-up comedy nights. Recent performers include Kiwi indie artists (e.g. Tiny Ruins solo in June 2024 , and Auckland bands Ebony Lamb & Gram Antler in Dec 2024 ), as well as world-jazz acts like Carnivorous Plant Society (who played there in Jan 2024) . There are also special community events: on the first Saturday of each month Freida runs a morning market (10am–1pm) with vintage stalls and eats . In late November each year the bar throws a free “Freida’s Festival” street bash for its birthday, with live bands (e.g. The Joe Kaptein Experience), vinyl vendors and popup food trucks . In short, expect mostly casual, all-ages daytime events (markets, brunches) and mostly 18+ live gigs in the evenings. Covers are modest – roughly $5 (“koha” or cover) for regular jazz gigs , while touring acts or theatre-type shows might carry higher ticket prices (around $20–$35, as noted for a Carnivorous Plant Society concert ). Some anniversary or summer events are even free entry (as with the 11th-anniversary festival in 2024 ).
Tickets and Booking
There is no physical box office at Freida Margolis – tickets (when needed) are arranged online or by phone. The bar’s own website and social media (Facebook/Instagram) announce upcoming shows and ticket links. In fact, the Freida site encourages joining their mailing list for gig announcements . Many weekly gigs don’t require advance tickets – you simply pay the cover charge on arrival. For example, Thursday jazz nights list a $5 cover (added to first drink) on the door . For larger concerts, look for presale links or phone booking information in the event listing. Ticket prices vary by act: small shows often rely on a simple cover (around \$5–10), whereas bigger bands or comedy nights may set a fixed ticket of \$20–\$35 . If in doubt, follow Freida’s official pages; popular events can sell out, so coming early or reserving online is wise.
Seating and Layout
Freida Margolis is an intimate, general-admission venue. The main room is roughly rectangular with the bar in one corner, surrounded by stools and a mix of bench seats and small round tables . Reviewers note a “good amount of space” despite its granny-flat feel: there’s a vinyl corner and even quirky décor (chandeliers, hanging plants and chairs mounted on the wall) giving it a lounge effect . Outside, a covered patio with several tables overlooks Richmond Road – popular in fine weather. There is no reserved seating or VIP area; on busy event nights it can get crowded, so the best vantage is often close to the bar/piano. Because the room is small, sound carries well and every spot has a pretty clear sightline to performers. In summary, think bar/lounge rather than a theatre: grab a table or stool quickly once doors open, or stand near the front for a great view.
Getting There and Parking
Freida Margolis is at 440 Richmond Road in Grey Lynn (corner of Hakanoa Street) . It’s about 3km northwest of central Auckland. By car, approach via Great North Road or Ponsonby Road. Street parking is available on Richmond and nearby side streets, but it’s metered or timed (especially during the day). Expect pay-and-display rates – many event-goers opt for Uber/taxis which can drop you off directly at the corner. By public transit, several AT bus routes run close by. For example, the 18 (New Lynn–CBD) line travels along Richmond, stopping near Freida . The free CityLink inner-city route via Ponsonby Road is a short walk away at Hopetoun Street. (Freida is too far from any train line to walk easily.) If using a map or Google/AT Journey Planner, search “440 Richmond Road” or “Freida Margolis, Grey Lynn”.
Inside the Venue
Expect a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. Visitors praise the warm vibe – “the locals’ corner pub” with a “warm welcome from Mike” . Staff are casual and often musically engaged (Mike is known to play pinball on the piano or put on vintage vinyl records). On sunny days the glass doors are often open, making the sheltered patio buzz with sunlight (one reviewer even noted Freida’s outdoor tables get the evening sun just right) . Live music nights are lively but not rowdy; people chat quietly while absorbing the sound. The bar menus are short: you’ll find a handful of rotating craft beers (notably Garage Project taps) , a concise wine list and classic cocktails (mojitos, martinis, whisky sours, etc) . There’s also a small kitchen serving starters and light meals. Reviewers mention things like charcuterie spreads, tapas plates or french-style small bites, plus gourmet thin-crust pizzas (the famous Blue Cheese & Pear pizza is often recommended ). On busy nights there may be a short line to order – feel free to chat with people and enjoy the jukebox or piano music while you wait.
Nearby Amenities
Grey Lynn is a dining-and-entertainment precinct, so you have good food and drink options close by. Immediately next door (455 Richmond Rd) is the Gypsy Tearoom , a beloved cocktail lounge described as “Grey Lynn’s perennial favourite” spot – handy for pre-show drinks or a nightcap. Just a block around the corner at the “West Lynn shops” you’ll find cafes like La Cigale patisserie and casual eateries for morning coffee or brunch. For sit-down meals, an easy 10-minute walk south on Ponsonby Road brings you to dozens of restaurants (from Italian and Thai to sushi and gastropubs). There are also corner dairies, takeaways and bakeries within a few minutes’ walk. If you want to stay overnight, note that Grey Lynn itself has no large hotels – most visitors overnight in Ponsonby or downtown Auckland (about 5–10 minutes’ drive away), where big-chain and boutique hotels abound. In short: Freida sits in a vibrant neighbourhood, so you won’t need to venture far for dinner before a show or late-night Greenlane/Grey Lynn cafes after the final set.
What Makes This Venue Special
Freida Margolis is special for its genuine neighbourhood charm and musical authenticity. It’s one of Auckland’s few remaining bars built from an old bricks-and-truss 1900s shop, with the original butcher signage preserved . This history (and its quirky decor like antique lamps and wall-mounted chairs) gives it character you won’t find in a modern pub. Roger, a reviewer, put it simply: it’s a “wonderful rustic space in an old butcher’s shop” where locals gather . The atmosphere is unfussy and warm – owner Mike’s passion for music (he’s travelled DJing and is a self-described music buff) means live tunes are a constant. Musicians and gig-goers love Freida for its intimate vibe: Concrete Playground calls it “an intimate watering hole for the locals of Grey Lynn” , and local news notes it’s become “a significant venue for local musicians” . Over its decade in business, Freida has earned accolades (Metro included it as a Top 50 Bar) and cult status among fans of jazz, funk and indie. In summary, both visitors and performers rave about the friendly owner, the spontaneous piano singalongs and the sense of community – a club night here feels like a big house concert. As one recent guest said after a reunion visit, “this pub is an absolute gem” . For live music lovers, Freida’s vintage vibe and welcoming crowds truly set it apart.
Visitor Tips and Information
Always bring ID – Freida is a licensed bar and most evening gigs are 18+. You may be asked for ID when ordering alcohol or entering after 8pm. (Under-18s aren’t admitted to late shows .)
Arrive early on gig nights. The venue is small, so doors often fill up by showtime. If you want a good table or to stand front-row, try to get there when doors open (often 6–7pm for an 8pm gig).
Dress casually. Freida’s crowd is in jeans, tees or smart-casual attire. It’s never formals – think Kiwi relaxed urban.
The outdoor seating is covered and popular on warm evenings. Take advantage of it for fresh air and sunlight (some say those end-of-day rays make it magical).
It can be chilly inside by late night (Auckland is often cool after dark), so a light jacket may help.
Pay by card or cash – the bar accepts both. (No formal coat check or cloakroom exists; personal items stay at your seat.)
Freida is famously dog-friendly (at least on the patio). One traveller review noted “doggy friendly” as a plus , so feel welcome to bring a leashed pet outside, weather permitting.
Out-of-parking trick: Many locals park a short walk away on flat side streets to avoid the Richmond Road meters. Residential streets adjacent to the shops often allow 2-hour parking or have permit restrictions – read signs carefully. Alternatively, use buses or a rideshare, since both AT Metro buses and Ubers drop hikers right at the corner.
If attending a market (first Saturday of month) or festival, plan to arrive by 10am. These are family-friendly and often finish by early afternoon. Festive events (summer/birthday parties) usually start late afternoon and continue into evening with DJs and bands.
Food tip: At night there’s no kitchen long after midnight, so eat dinner beforehand or grab the late-night pizzas. Freida’s own kitchen closes when the crowd thins. (In other words, their thin-crust pizza is superb – the Blue Cheese & Pear is a campground favourite .)
Remember the live music goes on well into the night (often past 10pm). Public buses run later on weekends, but if you plan late drinks, book a taxi/ride-share in advance since city buses taper off after midnight.
Freida is an old corner building, and while most areas are on one level, it may have narrow doorways or steps (no elevator). If you have mobility needs, calling ahead can clarify access issues.
Freida’s recommended arrival time for a cocktail or pizza is at least 1 hour before showtime on weekdays (even earlier on weekends). This ensures you can grab a bite or a craft beer (they regularly rotate Garage Project and other NZ brews on tap ) without missing any music.
Check the weather for market days. The first-Saturday morning markets are outdoors – in 2019, they even had Santa’s elf for the December market – so rain may move or cancel them. Always follow social posts for up-to-the-minute changes.
Finally, be ready to introduce yourself. Freida is very much a community hub – people tend to chat with each other and the staff. Locals often become friends here. Don’t be shy: grab a seat next to someone, and you might make new Auckland mates.
Where is Freida Margolis located and how can I get there?
Freida Margolis is at 440 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 (corner of Hakanoa St) . It’s about 3–4 km west of the CBD. Driving is straightforward via Great North or Ponsonby Road; but parking is limited, so many choose public transport or a rideshare drop-off. Auckland buses (for example, the 18 route from New Lynn to the city) stop nearby on Richmond Road . The free CityLink inner-city bus also stops on Ponsonby Road (a short walk away). There’s no train station in Grey Lynn, so buses or Ubers are your main options.
What are the parking options at Freida Margolis?
Parking around Freida is street parking only. You’ll find metered spaces on Richmond Road and surrounding side streets. These are usually pay-and-display (with time limits), so check the parking machines or signs. There is no dedicated car park for Freida. Some visitors park a short walk away in quieter streets and stroll over. If all else fails, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxi drop-off at the corner (Richmond & Hakanoa) is convenient. On busy event nights, it’s safest to assume you’ll need to hunt for a spot or pre-book a ride.
How do I buy tickets for shows at Freida Margolis?
There is no doorstep box office . Freida Margolis usually announces events on its website and social media, and any ticket sales are handled online or by phone. For casual nights (like jazz or open-mic evenings) you typically don’t buy tickets in advance – you just pay the cover charge at the door. For bigger concerts or comedy shows, watch for presale links on Freida’s Facebook or Instagram, or contact the venue in advance. The bar’s website even encourages joining a mailing list for updates . In short: routine nights, just show up; special shows, reserve online when announced.
What are the typical ticket prices or cover charges?
Ticket prices at Freida vary widely by event. For regular live music nights (e.g. Thursday jazz sessions), the entry is usually a small cover – typically about $5 (often added to your first drink) . Many weekly gigs are just that flat cover charge. For open-mic or community nights, entry may be free or by donation. On the other hand, headline concerts or festival-style shows have higher prices – expect around $20–$35 for an evening performance (for instance, one Carnivorous Plant Society gig was \$35 ). Special events (like Freida’s own anniversary festival) are often free. Always check the specific event announcement to know the cost.
Is there a ticket box office or will tickets be sold at the door?
Freida Margolis doesn’t have a separate box office. For most shows, if tickets are sold, they’re sold online or through promoters beforehand. For many of the weekly music nights (especially the casual jazz or open-mic nights), there’s no advance sale – you simply arrive and pay the cover charge at the door . If an event does have advance tickets, just come with your printout or mobile confirmation. In any case, arriving early is a good idea so you can get a good spot without rushing.
How is seating arranged at Freida Margolis? Are seats reserved?
Seating at Freida is unassigned and first-come . The venue has a casual bar layout: stools at the counter and a few leather bench seats and small tables scattered around . There's also a covered patio outside with tables for sunny afternoons. There are no VIP sections or reserved balconies – it’s an intimate standing/mingling space. If you want to sit, plan to get there early to grab a seat. Otherwise you can stand or mill about anywhere. Because the room is so compact, even standing in the middle or at the front always gives a clear view of the performer.
Are minors or children allowed at Freida?
Typically, no minors are allowed during evening events. Freida Margolis is a licensed bar, and after dark (especially when live music starts) it operates R18, meaning only 18+ can enter . Under-18s are sometimes permitted earlier in the afternoon (the bar opens by 4–5pm) if they are with a parent – but by law they must be out by 8pm. If you plan to come with a child, check the specific event info and consider visiting before 5pm when it’s less restricted.
Is Freida Margolis dog-friendly?
Yes – Freida is known for being dog-friendly , at least in its outdoor areas. In fact, a reviewer specifically noted “doggy friendly” as a positive when describing Freida . Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome on the covered patio or outside seating areas. (Inside seating rules depend on the bartender’s discretion, but don’t be surprised if your furry friend gets a morning treat or two.)
Does Freida Margolis have wheelchair access or accessible facilities?
Freida is in a historic single-level building. The main interior floor is flat, but there may be a small step up at the entrance (it’s an old corner shop front). There’s no elevator (it’s all ground-floor). Public guidance on wheelchair access is limited, so if mobility is a concern it’s safest to call ahead. As for toilets, there are standard men’s and women’s facilities on site, but it’s not clear if they’re fully ADA-compliant. In short: the venue does not advertise special accessible entrances or lifts, so advanced planning and assistance might be needed.
What food and drinks does Freida serve?
Freida offers a concise bar and kitchen menu. On tap you’ll find a rotating selection of local craft beers (often Garage Project brews) , plus a short wine list and classic cocktails (whisk(e)y sours, mojitos, Espresso Martinis, etc.) . The kitchen specializes in casual, shareable plates. Regulars rave about the pizzas (for instance, the Blue Cheese & Pear pizza is a signature ) and tapas-style bites. Concrete Playground describes offerings like cured meats and pates, specialty sausages, dips and sliders . They do not do full entrees – expect gourmet pizza/chip combos, charcuterie or small platters rather than steak meals. The hours are passed around the bar, so ask early (dinner typically served 5–8pm, snacks available later on).
Can I use my smartphone or camera at Freida Margolis?
Yes, casual use of phones or cameras for personal use is generally ok. Many people snap photos of bands or friends at Freida. Just be considerate: use flash sparingly during performances. (One reviewer noted that part of Freida’s charm is its vinyl and art, so photos of the space are common.) For professional photography or video recording, always ask staff permission first. Wi-Fi is limited, so mobile networks are your go-to for online sharing.
What is the dress code at Freida Margolis?
There is no strict dress code . Attendees and locals dress very casually – think jeans, T-shirts, dresses or smart-casual attire. Since the bar keeps late hours, some layers might be wise for cooler evenings. Super-fashionable outfits are not expected – the vibe is friendly and relaxed. If you feel comfortable, you’ll fit right in.
Does Freida attract a rowdy crowd, and what time do events end?
Not typically. The crowd at Freida is a mix of local professionals and music fans, and the mood is social but not outrageous. Events wrap up according to license rules: the venue closes by midnight Mon–Wed, 2am Thu–Sat, midnight Sun . Live sets might end a little before lockout, but DJs could play later on busy nights. Most gigs start 8pm or later – so expect music into the night. Evening buses still run on weekends, but if you stay late (past 11pm) you may want to book a taxi or Uber to get home.
What is Freida’s Market Day and when is it held?
Freida’s Market Day is a community flea/farmer’s market held on the first Saturday of every month , typically from 10am to 1pm . It takes place right at the venue and on the street, with vintage stalls selling records, books and crafts, plus food trucks or pop-ups (toasties, pies, cookies, etc.). It’s free entry and all ages are welcome. (The December market usually has a holiday theme with special activities.)
What is Freida’s Festival event?
“Freida’s Festival” is the bar’s annual summer street party (celebrating its anniversary). Held in late November, it’s a free, outdoor event that blends live music with local vendor stalls. In past years the lineup included Kiwi bands like The Joe Kaptein Experience, along with vinyl record mobile shops and food trucks . Think of it as Freida blowing out its birthday candles: everyone mingles on the street, enjoys live gigs and carries on into the evening. There’s no cover charge – entry is R18 due to liquor licensing – and it’s a great way to experience Freida’s community spirit.
What’s the origin of the name "Freida Margolis"?
Unlike some venues named for local figures, “Freida Margolis” doesn’t refer to a Grey Lynn resident or building owner. According to an early press profile, it’s named after a woman the owner met in Colombia . In other words, the quirky name is a personal homage, not a historical reference. Ask the bartender and you’ll probably hear the little story behind it!
