TOP 50 BARS 2020
1947 EATERY, ACHO'S, APÉRO, ALIBIBREWERS LOUNGE9, AN-NABELS, AZABU, BAR CÉLESTE, THE BEER SPOT, BROTHERS BEER, CARETAKER, CLAY, CLIP-PER, COCO’S CANTINA, COLEY AND PUNCH, COUNCH, DEAD-SHOT, DEBERTTS KITCHEN, FREI-DA MARGOLIS, FUKUKO,
KEY
OPEN LATE (PAST 1AM)
ESPECIALLY GOOD FOR DATES
ESPECIALLY GOOD FOR GROUPS
1947 EATERY
60 Federal St, City
The drinks list here is a leather-bound bible, the clasp opening up to a long list of curated cocktails that showcase the passion of the in-house expert, Sahil Patel. Think house-made pepper-and ginger-infused vodka or oolong liquor or even a topping of popcorn foam. Either park up at the bar near the back or lounge in plush, low couches around the room’s moody edges. Some okra fries and curry chips sound like a good idea, too.
605
605 New North Rd, Morningside
It’s always a good time at 605. You pull up in the evening for some live music or a comedy show, or to huddle around a table in the cosy outdoor area during happy hour. Locals pack in for Thursday quiz night and Wings Wednesday (10 good wings for $10) and even if you don’t live local, you’ll feel like one. Plus, free popcorn.
ACHO’S
St Kevins Arcade, 183 Karangahape Rd, K Rd Precinct
You can’t really get a pinot gris here, but why would you want to? Soak up St Kevins late-night atrium atmosphere over a glass of something Japanese you can find only at Acho’s and maybe not even on the menu (ask for their specials). An interesting assortment of hot and chilled sakes, whisky, plum wine and shochu will go well with something deep-fried and savoury. A classic Japanese beer will do the trick, too, of course.
ALIBI BREWER’S LOUNGE
70-72 Onetangi Rd, Waiheke Island
Alibi Brewer’s Lounge is one of the best spots for a cold beer on one of Waiheke Island’s hot summer’s days, hidden away and done up in a brick-lined, speakeasy style, with dim lighting and leather armchairs. The best go here is to load up a tasting paddle with four seasonal craft brews aged in wine barrels, sample the intriguing notes and then choose a favourite for a full glass, with some snacks to match.
ANNABEL’S
277 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby
Annabel’s is the best small wine bar in Auckland that has its own deli slicer on the bar. All wood, leather, and sun, Annabel’s is a perfect spot to spend a long Sunday afternoon picking at platters and sipping interesting wines or an intimate night over expertly made traditional cocktails.
