Best Cocktail Bars in Wellington (2026)

Wellington punches above its weight for cocktail bars. These are the spots with real craft behind the bar — not just expensive drinks with a fancy name.

20 places

$$$

Hawthorn Lounge

4.6(878)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Hawthorn Lounge is an intimate and inviting little speakeasy that is a home away from home for both the cocktail connoisseur and the cocktail curious.

artisan drinks cocktails creative cocktails

609 reviews

Cuckoo Emporium

4.5(340)

cocktail bar · 57 Customhouse Quay

Hidden gem on the waterfront, we provide outstanding coffee, a great drinks selection and an interior.

cocktails coffee drinks selection

310 reviews

Hanging Ditch

4.7(500)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service, great atmosphere, and tasty cocktails, making it a popular spot in Wellington.

500 reviews

ABV Rooftop Bar

4.4(124)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

We pay special attention to our ingredients, and seek to share our creativity through our food and cocktails. We take pride in the libations we curate, and we seek to share that through offering a unique list of craft beer, whiskey, rum, tequila, and more obscure liquors.

craft beer craft cocktails moreish snacks

124 reviews

The Black Sparrow

4.3(71)

bar · Mount Victoria

The Black Sparrow is nested beneath the iconic architecture of The Embassy Theatre, a hidden gem of old-school class and sophistication.

cocktail lounge cocktails craft beer

34 reviews

The Library

4.5(3,586)

bar · Te Aro

Book-filled lounge with a cozy, traditional vibe offering craft cocktails & inventive NZ bites.

bar snacks cocktails late-night menu

2,026 reviews

Dee's Place

4.9(135)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, delicious cocktails, and the relaxed atmosphere.

135 reviews

Puffin Wine Bar & Shop

4.3(367)

wine bar · Te Aro

We are a wine bar with a focus on natural, organic and minimal intervention wines. That said, we are also partial to a few beers, spirits and cocktails too. Come try some of our favourite things, and maybe find some of yours too.

cocktails craft beers minimal intervention wines

361 reviews

Crumpet

4.5(544)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional drinks and cosy atmosphere, making it a great spot for conversations.

544 reviews

$$$

Dragonfly

4.6(1,818)

restaurant · Te Aro

Restaurant & bar serving Asian dishes & cocktails in a stylish, intimate space with a courtyard.

asian fusion cocktail bar contemporary dining

1,623 reviews

The Arborist Rooftop Bar

4.3(1,430)

bar · Te Aro

The Arborist is a must see venue in Wellington, offering a selection of nature inspired seasonal dishes & cocktails.

cocktails modern new zealand share plates nature inspired seasonal dishes

1,410 reviews

St Johns Bar and Restaurant

4.2(2,002)

restaurant · Te Aro

Modern restaurant & bar featuring a menu of contemporary New Zealand dishes & patio seating.

cocktails contemporary new zealand menu international tap beers

2,002 reviews

Dirty Little Secret

4.1(1,435)

bar · Te Aro

Dirty Little Secret is Wellington's favourite rooftop bar. Equal parts cozy, inviting, and upbeat. Your home of rooftop DJs, and great vibes.

cocktails craft beers high-end wine

1,435 reviews

Minibar

4.5(472)

bar · Te Aro

Nestled in the lively heart of Courtenay Place, Wellington, Minibar stands as a beacon for rock enthusiasts and those in search of a genuine, welcoming atmosphere.

cocktails happy hour live music

256 reviews

Gallery Lounge

4.5(2)

bar · Te Aro

Enter into intrigue and pour into opulence at the Gallery Lounge, an ultra-chic gin bar adorned with a famous art collection, where creativity meets mixology.

artisanal drinks creative mixology gin cocktails

2 reviews

Whisky & Wood

4.9(128)

event venue · Te Aro

Whisky & Wood is an elevated and accessible function venue in the heart of Pōneke, Wellington, perfect for private dining, bespoke events, and landmark celebrations.

128 reviews

BL3

4.1(32)

bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly staff and the quality of the food, particularly the pizzas. However, there are concerns about service consistency and closing hours.

32 reviews

Rumours Rum Bar

5.0(26)

bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the unique atmosphere and the extensive selection of kombucha and rums, along with the friendly service from the owner, Robin.

26 reviews

Tipple in the Nook

4.9(21)

cafe · Wellington Central

A hole-in-the-wall espresso and wine bar with something for everyone.

cafe espresso outdoor seating

21 reviews

La Serre

4.7(3)

bar · Wellington Central

La Serre Bar is a chic lounge bar specialising in local gins, beloved by locals and guests alike.

chic lounge bar local gins

3 reviews