Tucked along a leafy street in Mount Albert, Bar Martin has become something of a neighbourhood constant — a place to gather, to pause, to return to. Known for its thoughtful wine list and quietly confident, Spanish-inspired plates, it’s less about occasion and more about ritual.
We spent an afternoon there in its softer hours, captured through the lens of Kate Van Der Drift — when the light settles gently and the room still holds onto the night before.
We sat down with founder and frontman Ruben Maurice to talk about instinct, community, and the subtle art of dressing for a bar date.
What inspired you to open Bar Martin?
I had been self-employed for 7 years, operating cafes around Auckland. I was very much in love with hospitality but not mornings! Our dear friend Pip called us one day to say a ‘for lease’ sign had been put up in a run down set of shops near her house in Mt Albert. The idea of the bar grew from there.
What has surprised you most about opening in this inner city suburb location?
The sense of community and connection that the bar inspires in our team and customers.
What is your favourite drink, and what do people keep coming back for on your menu?
I’m a sucker for a glass of Chardonnay. We’re lucky we are small and agile and can change our menu regularly which encourages our customers to try different things. They trust us with our recommendations.
What do you like to wear to work?
Anything light, comfortable and black with Birkenstocks. And a sneaky warriors jersey on game day.
How important is love in what you do — the act of service?
I think loving what you do for work gives you better balance in loving what you do in life. I believe being happy and comfortable in your workspace is reflected in your customers who in turn feel relaxed and well cared for.
What is on Bar Martin’s playlist, and what are you reading?
I think I still have my father’s taste in music. Old, cruisey and relaxed. We listen to a lot of blues. The last book I read was South Sea Vagabonds by Johnny Wray. A story about his life and his boat Ngataki which he built in his parents back garden and sailed around the South Pacific.
