Christchurch's finest places to go for a cocktail
Friday, 22 March 2024
This was originally published on Neatplaces.co.nz and has been republished with permission.
No matter the weather it is always the right time for a cocktail. It could be the height of summer, the sun is shining, you’re with good friends and fruity concoctions are flowing. Or perhaps the temperatures have taken a dive, cosiness is key and your drink of choice also has the job of providing some much-needed warmth.
Luckily for those of us in Ōtautahi Christchurch, the cocktail game in the garden city continues to go from strength to strength. We’re blessed with both seasoned hospo veterans and fresh faces to the scene bringing their A game and we get to enjoy the spoils of their hard work. Not only are the beverages top-notch, but the establishments serving them are delivering on all fronts; good vibes, swoon-worthy interiors and service that leaves an impression.
So next time a glass of wine or pint of beer just isn’t going to cut it, select any one of our neatest picks for a cocktail and you won’t regret it.
Unit 6/2 Papanui Road, Merivale
On the edge of the city centre on Papanui Road, you will find Londo, tiny in size but this wine bar packs a punch and over-delivers given its square footage. While Londo is known around town for their natural wine offering they also serve up some incredible cocktails, plus an ever-changing food menu celebrating local produce. The fact that it is only a two-person team behind Londo makes it all the more impressive. Harry is responsible for mixing up the drinks and his skills lure in other bartenders and hospo workers from around the city. While Robert produces phenomenal food, you would never know he’s working out of the city’s tiniest kitchen- he picked up a Cuisine hat in 2023. We think it’s pretty clear that this is the spot to head to with your best mate or partner, share some dishes and have a drink shaken up based on your preferences.
Level 8/159 Manchester Street
Two words… Spectacular. Views. No other bar in the city centre can quite compete with the Pink Lady when it comes to providing 360-degree visuals of everything Ōtautahi has to offer, from the hubbub of town to the Port Hills to the coast. Found at the top of the Muse Art Hotel, this rooftop bar is buzzing with energy from early afternoon to the wee hours of the morning. Taking inspiration from both the Hamptons and Miami, their range of cocktails is on point and will suit whatever kind of mood you’re in. Whether you’re meeting a friend for a cheeky drink after work or you’re looking for somewhere to kick off your night in style, Pink Lady is always an excellent choice.
New Regent Street Precinct
The Last Word on New Regent Street is a whiskey and cocktail lounge that is warm and inviting, with a cosiness that will make you feel right at home. With over 350 whiskeys lining the shelves, The Last Word are experts when it comes to this spirit but they are also master cocktail creators and like to put their own spin on the classics. With an extensive cocktail list, we wouldn’t blame you if you have trouble making up your mind, have a chat with one of the team and they’ll guide you to the right choice every time.
4 New Regent Street
One of the prettiest places for a cocktail in the city is hands down gin gin on New Regent Street. If aesthetic vibes are one of your main criteria for picking where to go for a cocktail then this is it. Not surprisingly based on the bar’s name, gin is the hero on the cocktail list and there are so many to choose from. You can go classic with a variation on a G&T, try a seasonal creation or if gin isn’t your cup of tea there is a section on the drinks list that will cater to your tastes too. Make sure to order some of their pizzettas to go with your drinks, and if you're feeling extra peckish the cheeseboard is also top-notch.
161 Cashel Street
If you are looking to be transported back in time to the prohibition era and the world of speak-easys then make your way to Austin Club. Located in an alleyway between Cashel and High Street, make your way down to the basement and come prepared to give the password at the door (check out their socials as it changes monthly). With its moody lighting and low ceilings the club is intimate and often has live music, stand-up comedy or a vintage film playing. Some of their cocktails are inspired by musical trailblazers and are unlike any you have come across before. Austin Club is unique on the Christchurch nightlife scene and a must-visit if you are a cocktail connoisseur.
779 Colombo Street
The Victoria Free House is a quintessential British-style pub and while its cocktail offering may be concise, there is an excellent pedigree behind that shortlist. Owner Luke Dawkins is the former co-owner of gin gin and as we have already highlighted they are no strangers to a good cocktail and this is thanks in large part to Luke. Growing up in the UK, his family owned a pub and The Victoria Free House is his opportunity to showcase what he holds dear to his adopted city of Christchurch. So if you love a pub atmosphere but still want an elevated cocktail this is the spot for you.
225 High Street
If you like to experiment with flavours and push your tastebuds’ boundaries then you must immediately make plans to visit Rascal for some cocktails. Located on High Street in the city, this modern bistro is all about inventive food and drinks, with both the kitchen and bar staff embracing their creativity and producing some magical concoctions. If you need further convincing one look at Rascal’s Instagram feed will have you ‘ooooing and aaaahhing’ over their cocktail creations.
6 Poplar Street
Found on Poplar Street and known as Dux Central’s little cousin, The Poplar Social Club embraces speakeasy vibes and is dedicated wholeheartedly to the art of the cocktail. While Dux Central next door is bustling with people, live music and big energy, The Poplar Social Club is perfect if you want a more intimate spot to enjoy a well-made cocktail or two.
28 Cathedral Square
OGB is one of the city centre’s most popular after-work drinks spots and for good reason… make that many reasons! Located in one of the city’s remaining Neo-Renaissance buildings from the 1900s, the bar oozes charm and style. Whether you choose to find a cosy spot inside or revel in the sun-drenched tables outside, the atmosphere is always spot-on at OGB. Then of course there is the most important factor - the cocktail list and all palate preferences are catered for here. The bartenders are expert mixologists, they even offer cocktail masterclasses if you are looking to indulge your love of cocktails further.
101/96 Oxford Terrace
If you find yourself at Riverside Market and the want - no need - for a cocktail arises, head upstairs to Midnight Shanghai. Specialising in elevated modern Chinese cuisine, they are also well known for their ability to shake up some amazing cocktails. They even have some dessert cocktails, so for those with a sweet tooth, this is the spot for you. Enjoy your drinks out on the balcony, it’s perfect for people-watching and after a few cocktails you might be feeling brave enough to try one of Midnight Shanghai’s karaoke rooms.
Level 1/79 Cashel Street
The Terrace is a destination for food, drinks and good times in the city centre. One of the finest spots to go for a cocktail along here is Monarch, found inside the renowned King of Snake restaurant. With an opulent and luxe interior, great views looking out across the Terrace from the balcony and a cosy fire on chilly days, not to mention a cocktail list that is creative and substantial. Tasting notes accompany each cocktail, so even if you’re not quite sure of all the ingredients you can be guided by your taste bud preferences. Monarch also offers a selection of bar snacks if you’re hungry or you can move through seamlessly to King of Snake for a bigger meal.
76 Hereford Street
Another popular spot along The Terrace is cocktail lounge Kong, the experts when it comes to mixing up the perfect drink and delivering a sophisticated environment to enjoy them in. There is something to tempt everyone in your group at Kong, from those who like to stick to the classics, to the ones who like to try a place’s signature selections, through to that person who can’t make up their mind and opts for a cocktail flight. Options and plenty of them are what Kong does best!