Bartender Bar Tour With Amy Sykes from Havana Bar

Amy Sykes, the 24-year-old native Yorkshirian bartenders who works at the super quaint Cuban bar Havana has been in the drinks-making industry for the past six years. We talk to her to find out her favourite Wellington haunts.

Concrete Playground: What's your favourite drink?
Amy Sykes: I'm a massive beer fan, can't go wrong with a good pint! Followed by a rum.

CP: What is your opinion on Wellington's nightlife?
AS: It's got some real quirky little places! It could definitely do with some more good late night bars, but it generally has some real good vibes and a good live music scene.

CP: Tell us an interesting story about yourself.
AS: I've travelled for 5 years with the same group of friends I met overseas! (And picked up a few along the way.)

CP: It's the weekend, finally. Which bars would you recommend our readers go to?
AS: Havana, Cuckoo, Rogue and Vagabond, Laundry, Crumpet.

1. Havana

Havana has such a good variety of drinks, and the food here is amazing too! Whether you want a cheeky nibble or a massive meal its real versatile. The music is good, the vibe is bouncing, the staff are happy! We'd come here for a cocktail and tapas to kick off our night. Definitely a good bar to get your night going.

Insider tip: It's a rum bar, it'd be rude not to have one or two!

2. Cuckoo

The furniture is for sale! What an awesome idea, imagine waking up in the morning with a sofa at your door! Hangover cured. And it's got a cheeky pool table which is always a winner.

Insider tip: Have a chat with the bartenders, they'll make you something you haven't tried before.

3. Rogue and Vagabond

Awesome beer selection, live music, real genuine bar!

Insider tip: Try something new!

4. Laundry

Laundry is pretty unique! its got a pretty small bar but the staff really know how to work it! they have live music and real good DJs playing. When it's cold on quieter nights they put the fire on and the ambience is amazing. So relaxing. Also if you get peckish there's a camper burger van out the back!

Insider tip: Ron Varadero rum, sip it, shot it, mix it.

5. Crumpet

Crumpet is really cool, it's like going back in time when you're in there. They also have some really knowledgable bar staff. I'd definitely scoot past the bar for a late night crumpet Negroni.

Insider tip: Ask to try some of their house products.