The Ten Best Summer Bars in Wellington
With summer definitively here, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to find you the best spots to stop and take stock with a thirst-quenching brew.
With summer definitively here, we've taken it upon ourselves to find you the best spots to stop and take stock with a thirst-quenching brew. Or two. Wellington's notorious blustery conditions can make it tricky to find somewhere to revel in the joys of summer without being swept off the face of the earth, or having your hair whipped up into a less-than-flattering bird's nest at the very least. We've sought out Wellington's best summer safe havens, the quality bars and restaurants offering shelter, sustenance and hydration during this difficult time.
1. The Bresolin
The Bresolin brothers are slowly taking over the Wellington food scene, and we couldn't be happier. From the gentlemen who have brought us Scopa, Duke Carvell's, Tommy Millions, Crazy Horse Steak House, comes The Bresolin. Situated in a transformed Edwardian villa on Willis St, The Bresolin has so much to offer, we could stay here all day. And hey, with an all weather courtyard, why not? With attentive staff, chic but not ostentatious surroundings, and a menu to die for, The Bresolin's courtyard is the place to inhabit this summer. You know you're onto something amazing when a menu has a breakfast cocktail called Hair of the Hog with bacon-infused vodka ($15). Bacon. Vodka. Don't fret – you can wash it down with a Healthy Green smoothie ($8) if you're feeling guilty.
278 Willis Street, Lambton Quay
2. Southern Cross Garden Bar
Southern Cross is a well-loved Wellington institution – for good reason. Tucked away in the concrete jungle just off upper Cuba Street, you'll find the better half of Wellington hiding out and playing giant jenga underneath the lanterns that will soon fill your Instagram feed. With a pint of cider in hand and live music in the background, it's pretty dreamy. Ideal for larger groups and lazy Sundays in the sun.
39 Abel Smith St, Te Aro
3. Karaka Café
Karaka Café's summer bar on the Whairepo lagoon is an amazing sun trap, usually well-sheltered from the elements. Beanbags on the lawn are a popular attraction, so you'll have to move quickly. Bonus points for complimentary use of sun hats (pink cowboy hat, anyone?), and the regular offer of sunscreen from friendly staff. We recommend checking out the snack and platter menu, especially Whakapipi Iti (sliders trio) ($15) and Kaimoana Wera (seafood nibbles) ($18/$22) accompanied by a glass of New Zealand wine. Watch members of the Wellington Rowing Club doing sporty things while you don't have to.
1 Cable Street, Waterfront
4. St John's Bar and Restaurant
Although no longer the house for ambulances as it was in the 1930s, St John's is still in the business of resuscitation. Nab yourself a beanbag on the lawn, admire the art deco architecture and settle in for a while. The staff, aware of how difficult it is to move once immersed in a beanbag, will come to you. International and guest tap beers from Wellington's Black Dog Brewery are all on offer, as is an extensive wine list. St John's "secret recipe" 2L jug of sangria ($35) is a must.
5 Cable Street, Waterfront
5. Olive
If you're looking for a garden oasis, Olive has you covered this summer. In the evenings Olive offers a garden grill menu, hosts an outdoor bar, and stokes hot fires to keep you warm when the sun goes down. The Olive garden is renown for its excellent wine list, most of which are available by the bottle, and artisan beers. Also a great soothing location for Sunday recovery brunch.
170/172 Cuba Street, Te Aro
6. Mac's Brew Bar
With the complete range of Mac's beers on tap, there's something for everyone at Mac's Brew Bar. $10 cocktails should satisfy your fancier friends. As the weather warms and the sun beats down, the Mac's territory extends right out to the middle of the waterfront, so you can enjoy the summer action and people-watch from the comfort of your perch.
4 Taranaki Street, Waterfront
7. The Hop Garden
For chill courtyard vibes, dappled sunlight, and craft beer, head to The Hop Garden in Mt Victoria. Branch out and try something new, advised by expert staff, and enjoy beneath the vines.
13 Pirie Street, Mt Victoria
8. Spruce Goose
Worth venturing out of the city to watch the surf break and the planes jetting in and out. The amazing view of Lyall Bay and affable staff make it worth the trip. We predict the two decks and beanbags on the grass will be a popular haunt in the summer months.
21 Cochrane St, Lyall Bay
9. Prefab
Although technically more a café, it was hard to get the image of sunshine streaming through the windows of Prefab out of our minds while compiling this list. And hey, they're licensed for beer and wine. With fresh bakery items, coffee roasted on site, delicious everything, and décor that perfects the art of industrial chic, Prefab is a Wellington must. The outdoor area is sun-drenched on most days – thankfully, sombreros are available for use.
14 Jessie St, Te Aro
10. Matterhorn
For a civilized evening, head to Matterhorn's courtyard and peruse their carefully crafted cocktail menu, and top quality wine list with wines grouped helpfully by flavour. Although one of the more pricey options, you certainly get what you pay for at Matterhorn. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for announcements of live gigs.
106 Cuba Street, Te Aro
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