Parrotdog Bar: Lyall Bay’s relaxed brewery bar

Surfers often turn up in jandals with a board under one arm, and dog walkers take their pooches inside and cool off with a beer.

It’s also close to the airport, so you’ll find travellers nipping in for a cold one before or after their flight.

The bar mantra is “come as you are’’, and the eclectic mix of families, beach-goers, locals, and tourists are testament to that. Inspired by traditional pubs, retro decor brings the space to life. Funky wallpaper brightens up the walls, and antiques and taxidermy provide excellent talking points. There’s a pool table to keep you busy, and a window through to the adjacent brewery. Keep an eye on what’s brewing while you take your pick from the bar’s 17 revolving taps.

Inside Parrotdog Bar & Brewery there are tables, chairs, wood-panelling, a taxidermied deer head and a neon sign on the wall.

Stomachs are also satisfied at Parrotdog. Giving classic ‘pub grub’ a makeover, take your pick from salty snacks, tasty burgers, and salads.

If you’re looking for something to take home with you, Nice. Takeaway is right next door. The brewery’s cellar door has a generous walk-in chiller stocked with all your favourites. They also encourage punters to bring their flagons to fill from the 10-tap line-up. The knowledgeable staff encourage tastings and are always up for a chat. If you’re looking for a memento of your trip (or a great gift), pick up some branded Parrotdog merchandise.

Parrotdog began in 2011 when three university students — all called Matt — began brewing beer. It wasn’t long before they became one of the country’s fastest-growing craft brewers.

Crowdfunding allowed them to open their seaside brewery, Nice. Takeaway and Parrotdog Bar in Lyall Bay.

2 poeple share a beer tasting tray at Parrotdog Bar, with an Led sign above them that says Nice.

Heyday

In a city full of quality brewpubs, Heyday’s mint green exterior stands out. While a brew ferments away next door, you can relax in a fresh, friendly pastel atmosphere.

Fidel’s

At the top of eclectic Cuba Street, Fidel’s Café is a Wellington institution serving Cuban coffee, “good, honest food” and a bohemian atmosphere.

Golding’s Free Dive

This cool, kitsch, and cosy laneway bar is a shrine to great beer, great design, and great atmosphere.

August Eatery

From the glow of its walls to the menu, August serves up a warm Mediterranean twist on flavour and feel.

Garage Project Taproom

Established in a former petrol station garage, Garage Project is a brewery fuelled by a love of creativity.

A bartender faces the wall while standing behind a colourful, tiki-style bar.

Where to eat near the stadium

It doesn’t matter if it’s a festival, big game, concert, or conference – everyone needs some quality kai before attending something at the stadium.

Interior with customers sitting down chatting, light blue and orange painted walls light up the space.

Chaat Street

Finger-lickin’ good Indian tapas will open your mind and fill your belly.

Little Penang

There’s a good reason Little Penang is always full. The restaurant has made ex-pat Malaysians cry at their tables, from the joy of eating such good, and authentic, food.