First drinks were a couple of gorgeous $16 negronis, the bartender's favourite, lovingly served over ice with a sliver of orange peel. It was a joy to watch them being made by the talented tender who clearly loved her job. The drinks list here is very impressive, but it's alsoworth noting the pleasing alcohol-free offerings featuring house-made sodas, cocktails sans alcohol and even low-alcohol options.
The vibe is chilled but classy on this Sunday afternoon. We know from experience that Ostro manages to cater to a mixed crowd - there are the refined diners who fill the brasserie side of the space, Friday night can be heaving with suits on the terrace overlooking Tyler St, and on this particular Sunday afternoon casual diners like us are here for the roast and live jazz.
The toilets are very chic, dark wooden cubicles with ideal lighting for powdering noses, and lemongrass and ginger Ecoya handwash for a fresh finish.
On the stereo jazzy beats, starring a strong hi-hat and sax, that are getting us in the mood for the live, three-piece band who play their smooth grooves from 1pm every Sunday. Other live music sets pop up at Ostro: keep an eye on their website.
Room for improvement our experience on this occasion was top notch, but we have known to be niggled by the disinterested and slow service in the past. The perfect spot for an impressive first date, an after work tipple downtown or a catch-up with a small group of good friends for a special occasion.
Most redeeming feature is Ostro's industrial space overall. One side boasts some of the most beautiful views of the Waitemata Harbour, the other a popular terrace that attracts the afternoon sun.
