Amelia WilliamsFriends raising their glasses for a toast
When it comes to food and drinks in Auckland, the options are endless. But sometimes, all you really want is the cozy comfort of a good ol’ Kiwi pub.
Picture sinking your teeth into a hearty burger while sipping on an ice-cold pint – there’s nothing quite like it! That’s why we’ve searched high and low to bring you the top pubs in Auckland where you can grab a drink and enjoy a quality pub feed.
Let’s dive into the ultimate list of Auckland’s finest pubs!
Vultures’ Lane
Website: https://facebook.com/vultureslane
Address: 10 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 300 7117
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $$
Auckland has plenty of viaduct bars, but Vultures Lane is special in its own way. The place has this cool, cozy vibe with comfy pub chairs and an area to relax outside on the laneway.
You’re bound to discover a delicious drop to try here as they boast 22 rotating taps and over 75 bottled beers in the fridge. And if beer isn’t your thing, you can grab ciders on tap, or spirits and other drinks to pick from.
When it comes to food, they offer classic favorites such as mac and cheese, burgers, and potato skins, alongside some more unique offerings. Paired with a nice cold drink, eating out here is a sure way for a satisfying meal.
Whether you opt for outdoor seating or prefer to soak in the live music indoors, Vultures Lane provides a welcoming, down-to-earth environment to enjoy a beer and a bite. Plus, it’s conveniently located, not too far from the waterfront.
The Kingslander
Website: https://www.thekingslander.co.nz/
Address: 470 New North Road, Kingsland, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 849 5777
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Price: $$
If you’re heading to Eden Park, you have to make a pit stop at The Kingslander. It’s the ultimate spot to fill up before an epic night of cheering, clapping, and maybe even debating the referee’s calls.
Round up your crew and dig into their global sharing plates. Think smoked buffalo wings, pork belly bao buns, prawn and ginger dumplings, and loaded cheesy fries – the toughest decision will be choosing from their range of craft beers to wash it all down with!
Feeling fancy? Give their stone grill meals a shot. It’s complete with smoked meats and killer sides like rosemary-garlic potatoes and homemade béarnaise sauce.
Besides catching a game, The Kingslander also hosts all sorts of fun such as quiz nights, open mic sessions, live DJs, and bands. And if you’re into salsa, mark your calendar for Wednesday Salsa Night – it’s something you won’t want to miss!
The Shakespeare Hotel & Brewery
Website: https://online.shakespeare.nz/
Address: 61 Albert Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 373 5396
Price: $$
No Auckland pub crawl would be complete without swinging by New Zealand’s original brewpub. Tucked away on the corner of Wyndham and Albert Street, The Shakes has been serving up pub grub for over a century – you just know they have it down pat.
Here you’ll find tasty bites to share like woodfired pizzas, gourmet burgers, or classic pub staples like lamb shank, fish ‘n’ chips, steak, or BBQ ribs. And, of course, there’s a range of fresh craft beers available on tap to perfectly complement your meal.
What’s cool is that their head brewer isn’t afraid to get experimental. So, you’ll find a whole bunch of unique brews alongside the classics, which is just perfect if you’re eager to try something new.
With The Shakes doubling as a hotel, there are 10 cozy rooms available if you happen to indulge in a few too many brown lemonades and can’t quite make it home.
But for those wanting to take the experience home, they offer takeaway beer in 750ml bottles. Save one for a future date with your partner!
The Lumsden Free House
Website: http://www.thelumsden.co.nz/
Address: 444 Khyber Pass Road, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 550 1201
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
The Lumsden Free House is where you go for a good time in Newmarket. They’re all about keeping their customers happy and serving up food that’s good for the soul and easy on the wallet.
Their burgers and pizzas are next-level delicious. And if you’re up for a challenge, their crazy hot wings will set your taste buds on fire. But don’t worry, there are plenty of beer options (over 120, in fact) to cool you down!
On top of that, this place is super welcoming. Bring the whole family, including the little ones, who can have a blast doodling on their chalkboard tables. Even your furry friends are invited to chill on their patio overlooking Lumsden Green.
And with space invader machines and a pool table, boredom is simply not an option, even on awkward dates.
If that wasn’t enough, The Lumsden goes the extra mile – broadcasting nearly every sporting event, hosting popular weekly trivia nights, and offering personalized beer and bourbon tastings.
The Occidental
Website: http://www.occidentalbar.co.nz/
Address: 6/8 Vulcan Lane, Auckland City, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 300 6226
Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
Mussels, schnitzel, and roast lamb? You’ll find them all at the Occidental– a place is famous for its mouthwatering pub grub, right in the heart of the city!
You won’t want to miss their steamed mussels in creamy white wine and garlic, paired perfectly with their famous frites and house-made mayo.
For meat lovers out there, the South Island venison pie or a hearty 500g Angus rump steak with a beer taster tray are must-tries.
Now when it comes to beer, they have ever-changing taps that feature Belgian and craft specialties, so you’ll always find something new to try. For something different, check out their wide selection of bottled Belgian beers.
While you’ll come for the food and beer, you’ll surely stay for the atmosphere. It’s lively and fun, with a billiard room and a reading room to boot. Plus, they host live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, so if that’s your jam, time your visit accordingly.
The Flying Moa
Website: https://joylab.co.nz/the-flying-moa
Address: 65 Lunn Avenue, Mount Wellington, Auckland 1072, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 570 2800
Operating hours: Sunday – Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Price: $$
The Flying Moa is the spot for sports fans, foodies, and anyone who loves a chill vibe. In fact, the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted by TVs playing live sports in every corner.
And when it comes to grub, you can build your own pub feast! Choose seafood, steak, or mix them up, then pick two sides (you can’t go wrong with beer-battered fries and slaw) and your sauce.
You can also keep it simple with the classic slow-braised pork belly.
Best of all, The Flying Moa knows how to keep things laid-back with live music every Friday and quiz nights every Tuesday. With these, the pub has become a favorite hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.
Added bonus is the great deals they have on offer: $1 wings every Monday, $28 jugs available in tap options every Thursday, and $25 loaded schnitzels available in four flavors every Wednesday!
The Chamberlain
Website: https://www.thechamberlain.co.nz/
Address: 120 Quay Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 218 9251
Operating hours: Monday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Tuesday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Price: $$$
Just like the pub’s charming vintage interior, The Chamberlain in Britomart keeps things simple yet satisfying.
You won’t find fancy gourmet dishes here, but their classic pub grub with a modern twist will surely impress your taste buds. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, their meals have a delicious hint of smokiness that adds to the experience.
So, kick back with BBQ squid and their ever-changing “beast fries” during after-work drinks with your colleagues. You can choose from their selection of cocktails, wines, and tap beers.
You can also dive into one of their classic burgers or fresh fish and chips for a hearty dinner.
It’s a good idea to book a table (you can do it through their website) since the place tends to fill up quickly, especially on Tuesdays for their quiz night. Come along during that time if showing off your genius is your thing!
The Clare Inn Irish Pub
Website: https://www.theclareinn.com/
Address: 274/278 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 623 8233
Operating hours: Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
This Irish pub situated on Dominion Road is the go-to spot for those craving a frothy Guinness and a satisfying meal.
To kick things off, treat yourself to Clare Inn’s irresistible cheesy bacon ‘tato skins. It’s the perfect appetizer to get your night started.
Then, dive into the main course, where you’ll be spoiled for choice with options like the mouthwatering slow-cooked duck, the classic beef Wellington, or the sausages paired with creamy mash and a whisky-infused sauce.
When it comes to entertainment, throughout the week, the pub hosts live performances. These include traditional Irish music, exciting quiz nights, laid-back open mic sessions, and thrilling Texas Hold’em poker tournaments.
But perhaps you’re just looking for a chill spot to hang out with your crew. For that, head upstairs to enjoy the great outdoor space with a brand-new Guinness Pool Table and Jukebox for some jazzed-up fun with your pals.
Matakana Village Pub
Website: https://www.thematakana.co.nz/
Address: 11 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana 0985, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 422 7518
Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
No trip to Matakana is complete without swinging by the Matakana Village Pub. Despite its roots dating back to 1903, this pub’s menu is far from outdated – it has dishes that would make any pub enthusiast drool!
You need to try their BBQ pork belly with fennel and potato gratin. But honestly, their fried sriracha hot wings and crispy polenta chips with whipped feta were an easy favorite.
Then, pair your meal with one of Matakana’s local brews to wash it all down and kick back in their beer garden.
They’re open every day until late at night, but it’s best to make advance bookings. To secure your spot, especially if you’re planning to visit on a Friday for their live music, head over to their website to check availability.
If you happen to fall in love with the place during your visit, good news – the Matakana Village Pub is up for hosting events of all sorts and sizes. Why not plan your next birthday bash here?
The Lula Inn
Website: https://joylab.co.nz/the-lula-inn
Address: 149 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 365 2690
Operating hours: Monday – Tuesday: 12:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM | Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$$
The Lula Inn is a laid-back South Pacific spot and hands down one of Auckland’s top pubs. Located along the Viaduct Harbour, it boasts a prime waterfront spot, perfect to enjoy their delightful selection of craft beers, traditional beers, wines, and gins.
If you’re up for a good time, Saturday nights are where it’s at, with live bands kicking off around 10:00 or 11:00 PM.
What’s on offer at the pub? They have bottomless brunch-appropriate mocktails, bubbly, and cocktails for $49.5 per person (choose your own date). They also have bottomless beer, bubbles, and dumplings for just $47.50 per person every Thursday.
As for the vibe, it’s nice and casual, which is a breath of fresh air in Auckland. But if you prefer to dress up, don’t worry – you’ll still fit right in!
The Good Home – Mt Eden
Website: https://www.thegoodhomemteden.co.nz/
Address: 37 Normanby Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 630 7740
Operating hours: Monday – Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM | Wednesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Sunday: 111:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
The crew at The Good Home is all about creating a warm and cozy atmosphere for everyone who walks in, and their menu is no exception. It’s full of rustic, hearty dishes that feel like a comforting hug from home.
If you’re hanging out with friends, their sharing platters are a hit. The meat feast is as hearty as it sounds, but if you’re after something lighter, the veggie board with spring rolls, veggie crudités, and stuffed dolmas is a winner.
When it comes to drinks, you’ll be spoiled for choice with their selection of tap and bottled beers, and wine (there are non-alcoholic beverages too).
To top off your visit, be sure to indulge in their homemade classic tiramisu – the hazelnut praline topping is an absolute delight you won’t want to miss!
Just a heads up for all you brainiacs out there: Wednesday nights are quiz nights here! Entry is free, but be sure to book your team in advance through their website, as slots are extremely limited.
Danny Doolan’s
Website: http://dannydoolans.co.nz/
Address: 204 Quay Street, West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 358 2554
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 AM
Price: $$
Another top spot in Auckland and a favorite among locals, Danny Doolan’s is one of the city’s top Irish pubs. They keep the good times rolling all week with live music that sets the perfect vibe.
One of the things that sets them apart is their amazing deal on jugs. You can grab a cold jug of Export/Tui for just $18, making it one of the cheapest offers on the Viaduct.
And when it comes to dining, Danny Doolan’s delivers with its bar food menu, featuring Irish garlic bread, buffalo wings, nachos, mac ‘n’ cheese nuggets. They also have their famous Danny’s wedges, market fish bites, steakhouse fries, and salt & pepper calamari.
When the end of the week rolls around, they have ‘Fricken Chicken Fridays’ you shouldn’t miss. But if it’s your first time here, it’s simply unforgivable if you don’t try their best-selling Sunday Roast!.
Don’t forget to book a table for you and your friends (through their website) before you stop by! Booking is required to ensure you get a spot.
