The 5 Best Bars in Parnell for When You Need a Good Drink
David Sims
| Last Updated: October 2025 Auckland’s got no shortage of cool hangout spots, but when the group chat started to become crazy and everyone’s ready for a few drinks, Parnell’s the place to be.
We already went out and checked some of the best bars around the area. All that’s left for you to do is rally the crew and get the night started!
How much does visiting bars cost in Parnell?
1. Pineapple on Parnell
Address: 207 Parnell Road
Business hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Wednesday to Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
Pineapple on Parnell is just a short bus ride from the CBD, so it’s easy to get to. The decor here is classy with a jazzy vibe, and the seating is comfortable enough.
Our team tried some of their drinks, and we’d say the real stars here are the cocktails. The Kawasawa cocktail, with kawakawa-infused tequila and bergamot liqueur, is a flavour bomb that’s both bold and smooth.
Bartenders know their stuff too. They’re happy to give tasters or top up your water and pretzels so you don’t get too tipsy too fast.
Seasonal cocktails also add an element of surprise. However, after a couple of visits, our team felt the menu could benefit from rotating them more often to keep things fresh.
Music is live but not too loud since we could still hear each other.
There are, however, a few practical downsides. They don’t have a website or clear contact information. Some guests told us they struggled to make bookings.
A really classy spot
“We were doing a tour of ‘secret’ and trendy cocktail bars that evening, and this was one of our stops. Easy to get to on the bus from the CBD, and a really classy spot. We loved the decor and high-class, jazzy feel to it. It was quiet and comfortable. Free bowl of pretzels, I thought, was a nice touch. We enjoyed two VERY tasty pineapple-themed house cocktails, around $48 total.”
– Ben Wendelborn, Google review
Excellent interior, professional bartender, delicious drinks
“An atmosphere of ease, friendliness, and fun. Here you can meet interesting people, make new friends, and simply have a good time. Live music, an interesting themed evening, or just a friendly chat with the bartender—all this creates a unique atmosphere that makes you want to come back again and again. This is exactly what the bar I visited recently was like. Excellent interior, professional bartender, delicious drinks, and a friendly atmosphere—all this made my evening unforgettable. I can confidently recommend this bar to anyone looking for a place to relax and enjoy life.”
– Joshua Boehm, Google review
2. 46 & York
Address: 46 Parnell Road
Phone: +64 9 377 9675
Business hours:
- Monday: 3 PM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 9:30 PM
The cocktails at 46 & York are creative without being intimidating.
My favourite is the Better Late Than Never mix gin that comes with elderflower, prosecco, and a hint of yuzu lemonade. It’s perfect for those who want something tangy and a little sweet all at once.
There are fruit-forward and tangy options too. So even if you usually stick to gin or wine, there’s a chance to stretch your taste buds.
The bar is also stocked for wine and spirits lovers, so no one in your group will feel left out.
Food isn’t the main focus, but we tried some bites that were surprisingly good. Garlic bread is cheesy without being overwhelming, and the bruschetta is fresh and perfect for sharing.
It’s pretty relaxed here, but not perfect. We noticed that smoke from the outdoor area can drift inside on busy nights.
And while cocktails feel fair for their creativity, some beers and jugs are pretty pricey.
Really enjoyed the selection of cocktails and wines they had
“46 & York offers a nice place to grab drinks away from the main road in Parnell. We came here for drinks and really enjoyed the selection of cocktails and wines they had available. We got the ‘Better Late Than Never’, ‘Take it Sloe’, ‘In No Rush’ cocktails, and the Oystercatcher Pinot Noir. We also got a garlic bread as a nibble to go with our drinks…”
– Sang Hyun Kim, Google review
Always a great atmosphere
“Always a great atmosphere for after-work cocktails or a beer in the sunshine! Easily the best place to enjoy a sundowner – one of the only places on the east side of the city that gets that all-afternoon sunshine. Also, the food is consistently great – the curly fries with truffle – to die for! And there’s plenty of gluten-free goodness on the menu.”
– Tina Comrie, Google review
3. The Paw Bar & Eatery
Address: 225 Parnell Road
Phone: +64 27 788 7757
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 1 AM
If you’ve ever wished your night out could include both your favourite cocktails and your dog, The Paw Bar & Eatery makes that dream a reality.
Dogs are welcome at every table, and there’s a dedicated doggy menu. Plus, the “dogtails” cocktail menu is very creative. Examples are Foxhound Island, Chow Chow on the Beach, and Pomeranian Playful.
My personal favourite was the Cavoodle De Fun. It’s fruity with the kiwi and a little minty. They really put thought into flavour as much as concept.
We also loved how they thrive as a social hub. Trivia nights, live music, and a hidden cocktail lounge turn a regular visit into an experience.
They even have board games scattered around to encourage a playful interaction. We felt like this bar really fosters connection between people, and between people and their dogs.
It’s not perfect, though. Food can take a while to arrive, even with simple pre-orders. If you’re hungry and impatient, it might test your patience.
A great place for anyone looking for somewhere both dog and family friendly!
“A hidden gem of a local and a great place for anyone looking for somewhere both dog and family friendly! Chill with great vibes, friendly service, and so much going on: a secret cocktail lounge, Thursday quiz nights, live music, free games to play, and dog beer + a dog menu!!”
– Gemma Bell, Google review
Each drink is expertly crafted and beautifully presented
“The Paw Bar & Eatery is a gem! Their drink selection is top-notch, offering a wide variety of craft beers, signature cocktails, and fine wines. Each drink is expertly crafted and beautifully presented. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, the bartenders here never disappoint. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends. Highly recommend.”
– Bishal Narabhat, Google review
4. The Paddington
Address: 117 Saint Georges Bay Road
Phone: +64 9 309 3586
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
The Paddington’s vibe is cosy but never sleepy. We appreciate how the staff make you feel like they actually want you there. People keep coming back not just for the drinks, but also for the way the place makes you want to hang out and linger longer.
Their food is surprisingly solid for a bar. The burgers are big, juicy, and exactly what you want after a long day.
Drinks cover the basics well. There’s a mix of tap and bottled beers and ciders—nothing fancy, but nothing disappointing either.
For sports fans, this bar will be very appealing. There’s a large TV where you can catch everything from rugby to UFC.
There’s even a pool table and dartboard for a more casual, social kind of night.
That said, the layout is a bit questionable. The pool table’s placement can make it a little tricky to play. The outdoor seating also sometimes carries a hint of cigarette smoke.
Great for simple drinks after meetings
“I went from never going here to suddenly all of my mates wanting to go, and so I have multiple times in like a month, haha. Great for simple drinks after meetings, as well as maybe being my new favourite pub to watch the ABs. Burgers are excellent and then the other bar food is good for the games.”
– Geoff Wilson, Google review
Good selection for drinks and a cool vibe
“We went on a Friday with a group. I had a great beef and Guinness pie with mash and peas, and loved it. Everyone else in the group enjoyed their food as well. Good selection for drinks and a cool vibe. If you’re looking for an English-style pub definitely worth checking out.”
– Luke Gardiner, Google review
5. Twofold Brewery & Restaurant
Address: 196 Parnell Road
Phone: +64 9 553 8989
Business hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Beer lovers will be in their element at Twofold Brewery & Restaurant. The taps are well thought out, and the pints are solid enough to keep you coming back.
But they don’t stop there. This is also a cocktail playground. If you want something fruity and fresh, the lychee and sunflowers cocktail drink is a good start.
Mulled wine in the colder months is a bonus too. There are also wines on tap, and one of our researchers said it was dangerously smooth. Basically, whatever you taste, you’ll find a drink to love.
The staff here also adds a lot to our experience. They’re friendly, approachable, and know their stuff.
Most of the time, service is quick and attentive. However, some customers have mentioned to us about the occasional wait when the place gets busy.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth keeping in mind if you’re in a rush.
Each item offers a variety of tastes
“If you enjoy phenomenal food and great craft beer, this is a must-visit in Auckland. The food offered is far beyond a normal brewery – each item offers a variety of tastes and textures in every menu option. I have yet to have an item that I didn’t like. There are cocktails, beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic options which makes this a perfect place for everyone to enjoy.”
– J Dalton, Google review
Great service and cocktails!
“Great service and cocktails!! Love the mulled wine and any place is 10* in my books if they are serving Tallow fries!! So good.”
– Laura Kennerly, Google review
