212 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland (09) 3580868
Shanghai Lil's is run by enthusiastic owner Russel Green and his partner and talented jazz pianist Billy Farnell who plays in the resident band. Originally established in 2004, the bar was formerly located in Freemans Bay, followed by a stint in an old colonial villa in Parnell.
Having proven to be a hit with locals, visitors and the odd celebrity, they have now moved to the trendy suburb of Ponsonby.
With quirky decor throughout, check out their fantastic collection of oriental furniture and art pieces on display.
Enjoy live music, cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Overview
| Price Range | $$ – Reasonable: $8-$10 / $6-$7 |
|---|---|
| Ambience | Relaxed atmosphere |
| Accepts credit cards | Yes |
| Noise level | Upbeat |
| Licence | This venue is licenced |
Products and specialities
Bar
Live music
Jazz
Hours
- MonClosed
- TuesClosed
- Wed -
- Thurs -
- Fri -
- Sat -
- Sun -
- HolidaysClosed
Reviews
Recently re-opened in Ponsonby, Shanghai Lil’s is one of my all-time favourite places for a great cocktail. I love the opium den-feel of the interior and the fact that this is where global superstars come when they are in town in Auckland to drink. Their cocktails are second-to-none and every drink on the menu has the same opulent feel as the rest of Shanghai Lil’s regality.
I was so excited to discover that Shanghai Lil's - one of the most surreal bars in all of Auckland - has opened back up again in its new home at 212 Ponsonby Rd. The owners have resurrected the same warm, opium den-esque interior that was such a favourite of mine when it had its home at the Bird Cage and, of course, the new venue has all the same touches of red velvet, gold silk and opulence that is the Shanghai Lil's signature. A great place to go for a Friday night cocktail and to watch a bit of live music played by one of its legendary owners, Billy Farnell.
I've always been a fan of Shanghai Lils but forgot how good is was until a friends recent birthday. They pulled out all the stops, live piano by Billy. A wonderful drag act and a birthday cake! There was lots of dancing and Russell pulled out a few of his famous high kicks. The birthday girl had a ball and the venue went perfectly with her Great Gatsby theme.
