About
Empire Tavern, located at 137 Victoria Street West in Auckland's CBD, is one of the city's most respected craft breweries and bars. Known for its consistently excellent house-brewed beers and welcoming atmosphere, it's carved out a loyal following among both serious beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers. The brewery takes pride in its rotating selection of IPAs, stouts, and experimental brews that reflect both classic brewing traditions and innovative local flavours. It's become a genuine hub for Auckland's craft beer community, without ever losing the accessible, unpretentious vibe that makes it feel like a proper local.
Visitors should expect a relaxed, energetic bar packed with character—exposed brick, industrial fittings, and enough beer taps to justify serious decision-making. The space suits everyone: couples on a date night, groups of mates after work, solo drinkers at the bar, and even families earlier in the evening. Plan for at least 90 minutes if you want to properly sample a flight of beers and soak in the atmosphere. The bar staff know their product inside out and genuinely enjoy talking beer, which elevates the whole experience. It's not fancy or Instagram-focused; it's just a really good brewery that does the fundamentals right. Peak times (Friday and Saturday evenings) can get crowded, so aim for a weekday if you prefer a more relaxed visit.
Empire Tavern sits in the heart of Auckland CBD, making it an easy stop during a city exploration or a standalone destination if you're specifically seeking craft beer. It pairs naturally with other Victoria Street West venues and is well-positioned for visitors exploring the broader Auckland food and drink scene. Year-round it's worth visiting, though summer outdoor seating (when available) adds extra appeal. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just after a genuinely good local bar with character, it delivers consistently.
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