The Secret to happinez…

The secret to happiness, some say,  is having an appreciation for life’s simpler delights. The secret to happinez, a tiny wine bar in Saint John, New Brunswick, is much the same: delightful simplicity.

Happinez by-the-glass

This past weekend I visited happinez, not for the first time since moving back to the Maritimes. Sitting below street-level of the historical Brodie building it beckons you inside with ancient natural stone walls, low ceilings and a buzz of happy patrons. Servers make eye contact as you enter, but thankfully don’t descend on you immediately, giving you time to get settled. Even before my first glass of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir I am instantly recharged from the 4 hour car trip from Halifax.

"Come A Little Closer" bench

What’s most refreshing to me about happinez is it’s ability to take a single concept and execute it very well. Everything from the architecture, to the furnishings, to the people working there creates an atmosphere conducive to relaxing and socializing – the wines are merely a compliment. A credit to owner and creator, Peter Smit, a native of Amsterdam who’s lived in Saint John since the early 80s.

You won’t find Budweiser or Smirnoff here (however, you might find an obscure local craft beer, or a good Russian Vodka if you ask). The main focus at happinez is wine. A good selection of reasonably priced wines by the glass, tasting flight, or bottle changes monthly (higher end bottles are also available from the cellar). Plates of local artisanal cheeses from Fromagerie Au Fond de Bois and local charcuterie from La Ferme du Diamant are on hand and pair beautifully with the wines. And everything is enjoyed amidst friendly strangers either seated communally in the back, perched near the bar, or atop the highly entertaining Come A Little Closer Bench.

some happinez'ers

Somehow it all manages to be serious, without being snobby; polished without being flashy, simple without being dull. There is little point in missing this gem next time you find yourself in Saint John, New Brunswick (but do check the time, they are only open Wed – Sat).

happinez wine bar
42 Princess Street
Saint John, NB
E2L 1K2
506.634.7340
http://www.happinezwinebar.com