As someone looking to find the perfect evening cocktail in Christchurch, you’re spoilt for choice. Known for its resurgent cocktail scene and award-winning bartenders, this vibrant city on New Zealand’s South Island offers a plethora of choice, with a wide range of stylish bars and hidden speakeasies around every corner. Here we have curated a list of the top cocktail bars you must visit when in Christchurch.
1. The Last Word
Located in Christchurch’s New Regent Street, The Last Word is a whisky and cocktail lounge combining traditional charm with a pinch of modern sophistication. The bar offers a long list of cocktails that are as imaginative as they are delicious. Known for their exceptional whisky selection, come for the Old Fashioned cocktails, but stay for the cosy and relaxed ambience that might remind you of an old world gentlemen’s club.
2. Gin Gin
Gin lovers, rejoice! Gin Gin is a rooftop bar located on Victoria Street and is a slice of gin heaven with about 100 different gin blends on the menu. Besides their unique gin cocktails, the bar also offers breathtaking views of the city’s landscapes and is a true hotspot for bespoke cocktails and fervent chat.
3. Mama Hooch
For those who are looking for a little bit of everything, Mama Hooch is the place to be. It’s a breakfast cafe, a restaurant, and a bustling cocktail bar all in one. Located on Colombo Street, its fresh, rotating menu and chilled atmosphere set it apart. The cocktail menu is drink christchurch constantly evolving with creative concoctions that push the boundaries of conventional mixology.
4. Boo Radley’s
Inspired by the eclectic South, Boo Radley’s is a unique bar and music venue on Victoria Street. A place where zesty cocktails meet Southern comfort food, live entertainment, and good-old fashioned Southern hospitality. Their cocktail list boasts traditional classics and new-fangled mixtures which are sure to surprise and delight your palate.
5. The Dirty Land
The Dirty Land on High Street is a unique spot that brings the romance and mystery of the speakeasy era back to life. This moody cocktail bar takes mixology to new heights, showcasing signature drinks and classics with a twist. Its ornate decor and dimly lit ambience make it a perfect spot for a quiet evening cocktail.
6. O.G.B Bar & Cafe
Nestled in a remarkable heritage-listed building, on Cathedral Square, O.G.B. is a one-of-a-kind bar that truly captures the spirit and nostalgia of Christchurch. Their unique cocktail list features innovative renditions of timeless classics, all served in elegant glassware to further enhance the overall experience.
Each of these bars offers its unique take on cocktail culture. Whether you’re looking for classics with a twist, gin-infused creations or a unique concoction that pushes the boundaries, you’re sure to find a cocktail bar in Christchurch to suit your taste. So, why wait? Start exploring and indulge in the city’s exciting and diverse cocktail landscape.