Hidden bars of Wellington (and how to find them)

The capital isn’t known for its subterranean establishments, but this tucked-away bar makes a good case for them. Head down the stairs below the stag head on Cuba Street to Dee’s Place. There you’ll find one of the city’s biggest selections of American whiskeys, interesting cocktails, and plenty of atmosphere.

The menu at Dee’s Place is constantly changing, with the day’s selection written up on the chalkboard behind the bar. Owner TK and his team showcase “interesting stuff that we would like to sit at the bar and drink ourselves.” Wine, beers, and classic cocktails change weekly. 

Low-fi meets luxury at this hideaway bar on the ground floor of The Intrepid Hotel. The interior glows with emerald green velvet, brass fittings, and chandeliers. Despite the glam, it’s a casual spot for a drink with a friend. Quirky details like taxidermied animals (yes, there is a puffin) pack the space with personality.

Puffin serves organic and minimal intervention wines. Check out the board for what is currently pouring by the glass. The menu also includes classic cocktails and beer on tap. To go with your drink, there’s a thoughtful selection of charcuterie and cheese, oysters, and small plates.

Through a discreet door on Ghuznee Street, you’ll find a narrow, winding staircase. Follow the stairs up, up, up, (three whole flights), and right at the top, you’ll find Ascot.

Serving the unique combo of hot dogs and wine (trust us, it works), Ascot is a bar worth seeking out. With funky, eclectic decor inside and a rooftop terrace outside, it’s a great spot to finish the day or start the evening. The terrace’s surrounding parapet walls mean you trade views for shelter from the wind. But the great music and cosy feel make it somewhere you’ll want to spend a few hours.

Step into a discreet elevator on Taranaki Street and head for the roof. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by an extensive rooftop bar. The bar is made from a shipping container, and surrounded by a dance floor, fairy lights, and panoramic views across Wellington’s entertainment district.

Dirty Little Secret is Wellington’s hidden rooftop bar, set right at the top of Courtenay Place. With a view worthy enough of an Instagram pic, get a spot by the glass windows and watch the city go by below.

Elixir is Wellington’s premiere bitters and Chartreuse bar. Found down Chews Lane off Willis Street, it provides a cosy oasis among the busy office and apartment blocks. It also boasts the only full kitchen attached to a cocktail bar in the city. Elixir caters to serious aficionados and people keen to learn about unusual wines and the subtleties of spirits. Its friendly and knowledgeable bar staff can steer you through the eclectic drinks list.

With a 1920s speakeasy or gentlemen’s lounge vibe, Hawthorn Lounge is a hidden gem you must seek out.

Head through the unmarked doorway, go up the stairs and you’ll find a swanky spot where the bartenders really know their cocktails. Sit at the bar as the staff entertain you with a history lesson on your favourite cocktail. Or, nab a leather couch by the open fire and relax as they concert your own bespoke drink.

Started by Wellington couple Kerry and Dean, Mean Doses is a local craft brewery. What began in a basement is now a fully-fledged bar and taproom on Tory Street.

A lineup of taps pours Mean Doses’ classic brews, alongside some exclusive house beers. A small selection of wine, gin, and single-malt whisky will tempt non-beer drinkers. Cool and casual, the space is upstairs from Mabel’s restaurant, which provides the bar snacks. A mix of classics and intriguing Burmese dishes are great nibbles. You’ll need to stay fuelled, as there are games galore. Challenge your friends to pinball, pool, shuffleboard, or classic arcade games.