The Bluestone Room - CLOSED

Overview

Founded in 1861, The Bluestone Room is almost as old as the Treaty of Waitangi. And with over 150 years of experience at hosting some of NZ's finest patrons, they've become quite adept at serving our fine city with some damn fine sustenance.

Upon entering the establishment you almost forget that the old, exposed-stone interior is located on Durham Lane in the center of the Auckland CBD. And in the early evening on the Thursday that we went along the place was absolutely humming with a vibe that can only be described as jovial.

The Bluestone Room offers classic gastropub food that begs to be served alongside the house craft beer range, Monteith's. Opting for the seasonal Summer Ale we got ourselves established and drank in the rich history of one of NZ's oldest watering holes (all puns intended). Featuring all of your favourite comfort foods, the menu offers such classics as ribs, bangers and mash, and the Bluestone Room Man Pie of the Day. Without hesitation we ordered the 300g sirloin steak ($29.50) and lamb shanks ($25) that the friendly wait staff recommended as house specialties.

As you would expect, both meals were rich, full of flavour, and decidedly awesome. The steak was seared to perfection and the creamy mushroom sauce had the desired mouth-watering taste and consistency. The lamb practically fell off the bone once plate met table and was served with beautifully roasted root vegetables. Both too full for individual desserts, it was agreed one to share would be a more prudent choice and the unanimous decision to get the warm chocolate brownie ($9.50) was made. Simultaneously moist on the inside and crisp on the outside, it was lovely and well complemented by the always-necessary vanilla ice cream.

Whether you're heading out for an inner-city casual drink after work or the quintessential gastropub experience, The Bluestone Room should definitely be one of your first choices.