Brothers Beer Orakei

Overview

Way back in 2010, local chaps Anthony Browne and Andrew Larsen decided to go into business together and start their own bar and brewery. After copious amounts of research they came together to fill a gaping hole in the Auckland market for those who wanted their beer to be more than just cold and fizzy. Thus, Brothers Beer in City Works Depot was born.

Aucklanders loved the place from day one, and we recently rated it as one of the best craft beer bars in Auckland. They've done it again with their brand new Orakei bar, recreating their winning formula with the same eclectic decor and amazing beer selection— over 120 in the bottle and over a dozen on tap.

There's a few important differences at the Orakei bar though. For one, there's a view out over Hobson Bay from a spacious beer garden decorated with hanging vines and picnic tables. Secondly, they've stepped up their food game. Sara Simpson of Clooney, The Tasting Shed and The Botanist fame is in charge, and has created a burger menu that's refreshingly different but comfortable and familiar at the same time. The pork and mussel burger was our favourite, featuring a juicy patty bursting with flavour and a zesty chilli and lime dressing. There's a whole menu of gourmet burger creations like this one, as well as a selection of standard pub bites like hot wings and fries.

The actual bar is a typical Brothers joint— a warehouse setting with high ceilings, 18 shining taps behind a stone bar, and of course, retro Kiwi furnishings like an ornate chandelier and plaid chairs straight out of the '70s. You'll also notice the silver brew tanks at the back, installed especially for brewing sour beers, a trend that's taking off around New Zealand. There are dozens of barrels along the left wall for aging these brews and bringing out complex and tart flavours. Brothers are making some of Auckland's best too— they were pouring a nectarine sour, and a cucumber sour when we popped in, both of which were bloody delightful.

If the lads keep pouring good beer and serving delicious burgers we predict this will be an Orakei favourite for many beers and many years to come, as well as another success for Anthony and Andrew of Brothers Beer.