THE SCENE: An old converted garage on the newly revamped Britomart complex will always exude a knowing too-cool-for-school air. Stripped breeze block walls and steel frames downstairs create an industrial feel, while a small rooftop bar overlooks the docks and wharves. Open everyday from 11.30am until late, with regular DJs and live music, serving decent food and a range of drinks, it’s pretty much all things to all people.
BEHIND THE BAR: There are 12 bottled beers starting at $8.50 for Steinlager Pure, six beers and ciders on tap at $9 a pint, and a short-but-sweet cocktail menu including a rather elegant G&T containing lavender and rosemary-infused gin, St Germain elderflower, Quina Fina tonic, soda and grapefruit; and a sickly sweet Gingerbread Man, where Amaretto and Frangelico are spun and shaken with gingerbread spice liquor ($16 each). It’s also got an impressive wine list.
THE GRUB: Usual bar and pub fare of large (oily) cheese and meat-laden pizzas ($23), big steel buckets of thin fries, and hearty burgers weigh down the tables. There are also lighter options, such as calamari and spiced chickpea salad ($16). It’s all decent fare, and filling before a night on the drinks.
BILL PLEASE: Coming in at around $40 for a main and two drinks per person, it’s not bad given its insouciant air and location.
VERDICT: Decent, hip and with a broad appeal.
120 Quay St, Auckland tylerstreetgarage.co.nz
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