The Best Beer Spots In Wellington

Little Beer Quarter is Wellington’s hidden oasis for beer lovers, tucked away in the Edward St Precinct. LBQ knows a thing or two about beer, and with 14 rotating taps, you can try a new beer on every visit; or begin to work your way through hundreds of bottled beers in the fridge. Sample the best New Zealand has to offer or dabble in a selection of international brands. If you’re after an unorthodox brew then order from the windswept and interesting section of the menu – warning to the brave, these beers pack a punch. The Yeastie Boys Gunnamatta is an Earl Grey Blue Flower IPA with a prominent floral aroma and an old-world twist. If you find the menu daunting due to its sheer size, turn to the professionals and let the Beertenders recommend a few favourites.

There’s nowhere we’d rather be; than sitting on a beanbag with a beer in hand, looking out across Wellington’s waterfront. Rally the troops for a sun-soaked afternoon session at St Johns Bar and Eatery. Enjoy a range of local crafts and international beers from the iconic Heineken to Tiger, Tuatara, Black Dog Chomp and Lagunitas. With 12 beers on tap and more in bottles, you are sure to find a draft to suit your palette. A personal favourite is the Lagunitas IPA; the caramel malt barley softens the hoppy flavour, making an easy to drink, well-rounded bev. Grab a handful of small dishes to line the stomach; the fried chicken and jalapeno rice balls are unforgettable.

The Hop Garden is the perfect spot for sunny afternoons, mid-week catch-ups and weekend brunches. Whether you’re looking for the best draft to pair with your Sunday roast or starting the day off on a hoppy note, The Hop Garden has a beer for every occasion. The easy-to-read menu will help guide you to the right choice; a few sections you’ll come across are dark and red, Belgian style and old world, pale and hoppy, or lager and pilsners. The tap beers frequently change to showcase new and exciting flavours alongside the classics. Experiment with an iconic pint of Guinness, a handle of lager or a Bayland’s black IPA.

Fortune Favours Beer started a crusade to introduce Kiwis to outstanding beers that were accessible for everyone. That means if you can’t come to visit in person, you can order online and have a case of your favourite beer delivered to your door. The core range of beers includes popular numbers like The Wellingtonian IPA, The Adventurer pilsner with herbal and citrus hops, and The Trial Blazer, a hoppy lager that is a bold alternative to the classic version. If you need a quick bite to eat, try the beer-battered onion rings; or the buffalo-hot wings with a blue cheese mayo.

Craft beer enthusiasts have a haven in The Rogue and Vagabond bar. Specialising in beautiful beers and a variety of live music, this craft beer bar is the perfect spot for lazy summer afternoons. Lounge in the sun and listen to jazz, blues and rock ‘n’ roll; as you work your way through the beers on tap. Everyone knows that burgers and beers go hand-in-hand; grab the O.G beef burger with American cheese, mustard and tomato chutney and wash it down with a cold pint of pure lager. Take your taste buds on an adventure with Baylands Brewery NightRyder; this chocolate rye stout is rich and indulgent, with subtle hints of coffee and a silky finish. Explore a range of hazy IPA’s, stouts, witbier, porters and APA’s.