If there’s one city that knows how to party come evening time, Dunedin would be it - and if you’re looking to join that party, then Dunedin bars are a great place to start.
Home to a huge number of students over the study months, Dunedin nightlife is often packed with the young and enthusiastic who are determined to make the most of their leaving home experience. Dunedin bars cater to this crowd by ensuring there’s always plenty of places to hear thumping bass, funky live bands, or DJ music that’s impossible not to dance to. Looking for the most popular bar in Dunedin to spend your dollars and scuff up your dancing shoes? Simply follow the crowd - there’s no mistaking that the locals know what’s what when it comes to how and where to spend the small hours.
If you’re after something a little less thumpy, and a little more refined, then there’s a variety of Dunedin bars catering to exactly that. Pull up port side, head out the coast a little way, or wander down some more discreet inner city streets to find the sophisticated spots which for what they lack in young students, make up for with unbeatable drink menus and dapper staff.
A Beer Lover's Guide to Eating and Drinking in Dunedin
Steamer Basin Brewery & Taproom
Steamer Basin is hidden, yes. Secret? No. The journey may begin to feel like a wild goose chase, but persevere and you’ll be rewarded with micro-brewing gold.
The Swan
An eatery and taproom with great vibes, local flavours, live gigs, fresh coffee, cosy nooks and a sunshine-laden outdoor seating area.
PLATO
Hidden under the Otago Peninsula Road overpass you will find PLATO, an eatery that is retro both inside and out.
The Portsider
A cosy pub in Port Chalmers with a full menu and huge selection of craft beer.
