Are there any vodka lovers among you? Let's see hands up if you are, or even wish you were. I know that at least one of you likes Stolichnaya.
What if I were to tell you that I'm taking you out to place tonight that offers over 150 different brands of vodka? It's true. From all over the world. And they'll fill you up with all sorts of Russian food delicacies besides.
Are any of you good singers? Hands up. Do you sing mostly at church on Sundays or on Saturday nights after a few shots to loosen up your throat muscles? Well, they've got two Kareoke rooms upstairs where you can give it your best shot, or after your last shot, whichever.
The only thing is, this place ain't cheap. A shot of average vodka costs $17 and it goes up from there. The top-shelf, private collection stuff will set you back $45. For one 30 ml. shot.
I know. Well, all I can say is that it's a good thing our night out at the Vodka Room in Ponsonby will be a virtual one. I know I couldn't afford to spend an evening there.
So, here's what we'll do. I'll give you a few minutes. You go get a nice shot of whatever vodka you have around the house. Maybe you want to mix up a nice Stoli martini. Whatever it is you choose, you can pretend that you're at the Vodka Room and it won't cost any of us a ruble. Let's go.
There it is, across the street.
Outdoor balcony seating overlooking Ponsonby. Well, overlooking a car on a street in Ponsonby.
The front door. Let's go in.
It was open for business when I stopped in at about two in the afternoon, but almost empty. I
I asked if I could take pictures and was given a tour of the place. They were very friendly.
One of the bars
Anybody need to get a refill?
Here's the menu.
Upstairs are two kareoki rooms.
Above and below, the Bear kareoki room
Above and below, another kareoke room
The restrooms (toilets) are rather unique here.
This portion of the building I think is made from steel containers.
Men and women share the sinks in a common room next to the toilets.
Lots of impressive tile.
As you notice on the doors, there are men's and women's toilets.
Very stylish.
I find myself somewhat uncomfortable with this arrangement though. A little too cozy for my taste. -djf
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While reading this post Pat Benatar's song, "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" came to mind. And I'm a Bourbon, not a Vodka, guy.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if that is a popular song to choose in either of the karaoke rooms? It would certainly be fitting.
ReplyDeleteIf I discover a Bourbon Room somewhere in Auckland, I'll let you know.
Wow, what a gorgeous place! Do they also do Vodka Martinis? It definitely looks expensive and you would have to sell a lot of shots to pay for the restrooms alone. I liked the menu. At those prices, at least you would be guaranteed to indulge with moderation. McKenzie
ReplyDeleteI'm sure they could make you whatever you wanted.
DeleteJeanne and I might stop in someday just to try the borsch. I'm a real fan of beef cheek. The richest sort of beef ever in my opinion.
I'd pass on the drinks.
Interesting place Doug! Outside it looks rather unassuming… but the décor inside really assaults the senses and sensibilities! I see Russia being celebrated from communism (the red fist) and a Kalashnikov through over-the-top capitalism with all the glitz. The flock of ducks in (presumably) Kalashnikov rifles is really clever.
ReplyDeleteI’d say this is certainly THEE place to go if you want to drop a few fifties.
If I ever try their borsch I'll let you know how it was.
ReplyDelete