It’s that time of year again when every man and his dog take the solemn oath to give their bodies and brains a break. A mid-week catch-up over beers, after-work Friday cocktails, a birthday bottomless—alcohol may feel as core to our social lives as friends themselves but we’re here to tell you going boozeless doesn’t mean you miss out.
Our mates at AF Drinks are footing the bill for 10,000 non-alc cocktails all over NZ. Score drinks like AF Apero Spritz, AF Dark & Stormy, and more at over 50 bars and restaurants across the country. Grab your car keys and hit up one of the venues on the AF map. If you're stunned for choice, below are our top picks to (not) drink at this July.
Auckland
Atelier
Fast becoming a K Rd staple, Atelier is an avant-garde restaurant that takes pride in its artistic approach to gastronomy, blending flavours, textures, and presentation to create plated masterpieces. Wild pork, raclette cheese croquettes with black garlic miso and mille-feuille topped with salted butter caramel and chantilly cream are musts for your dining hit list. Clean lines, a concrete ceiling, they’re boasting sleek decor with a neon sign we’d bet good money you’ll take a cheeky pic of.
Baduzzi
Fresh pasta, monster meatballs, cured meats, Baduzzi is Italian cuisine in all its ancient glory. A gift to the people of Tāmaki Makarau that has us going back again and again no matter the occasion. With a menu designed to share, although our favs are the crayfish meatballs and duck ragu, Baduzzi is vegetarian-friendly with many plant-based options to fill your table. Pull up a bar stool, sink into their booths or snug up al fresco and enjoy.
Lilian
Nestled in a neighbourhood corner, Lilian takes the feeling of comfort and runs with it. Wooden furnishings, vintage accents, and soft lighting make you feel like you're being invited home. This warmth carries right through to the food, a dinner at Lilian is only complete with one of their woodfired pizzas. Celebrate heartwarming flavours, ambience and of course, people here.
Sunset Bar
Travel back in time with 70s-inspired pastels and textured interiors at Sunset Bar at Sudima Auckland City. You won’t forget the name as the Waitākere Ranges and Waitematā Harbour views turn from sparkling water to a twinkling skyline. Order every dish on the Mumbai street food-inspired menu and flood your tastebuds with flavour—the masala waffles are essential. Pair with live music on Fridays, Saturdays and of course an AF Classic G&T.
Hamilton
Ernest
Ernest is bringing back the golden era of late-night lounges smack bang in the heart of Hamilton. Have you ever been the last table in a restaurant and waiters are not so subtly cleaning around you? You won’t find that here. Settle in for a long catch-up, you’ve got the whole night. Share bar bites other venues can only dream of. This isn’t onion rings, this is Cloudy Bay clams, char siu duck and picanha steak with bone marrow butter—yum.
Wellington
Astoria
Astoria stands as a beacon for coffee aficionados and brunch enthusiasts alike. This playful cafe is THE spot to kick-start your day no matter how leisurely or late the start is. No guilt in pairing a boozeless Sparkling Rosé with their signature baked Turkish eggs, chilli oil and dukkah. For those craving something sweeter, the oat milk panna cotta with granola and pear is a creamy delight.
Champagneria
We’re so excited Wellington’s own champagne and sparkling wine swimming hole is going zero per cent. Head to upper Courtenay Place for a rustic venue that dances between garden bar and garden shed. Bring a friend or ten, the impressive tapas and platter menus are vegetarian—almost all vegan—and designed to share. Why stop at friends? Champagneria is dog friendly and even has a dedicated pup menu.
Little Beer Quarter
Fondly known as LBQ, Little Beer Quarter is slightly off the beaten track in the Edward Street precinct but impossible to miss their iconic yellow exterior. A self-proclaimed “beer geek heaven”, LBQ’s offerings are anything but little. If you’re thinking of heading in the arvo, get in quick because LBQ is a super popular spot for post-work drinks and snacks—rightly so.
Christchurch
Bar Yoku
Paying homage to izakaya bars, Bar Yoku offers an urban sanctuary inviting you to retreat into its dim settings and internal garden. For fusion, don't skip the sushi tacos - rice is used instead of tortillas to house a filling of your choice. For a more authentic Japanese, try yakitori. Marinated and barbequed chicken pieces—thigh, breast, knee joint or heart if you're feeling adventurous. Paired of course with an AF Sparkling Sake.
The Lane
What we think we know about sophistication and refined elegance gets remixed at The Lane. You get the full five-star bells and whistles but without the stuffy atmosphere providing the perfect setting for intimate dining or a special celebration. Even take away the stress of researching the menu and ‘Trust The Chef’, enjoy a full three-course dinner chosen by head chef Troy Tolentino.
Dunedin
Amigos Dunedin
If Mexican morsels and (not so boozy) AF Grapefruit Margs make you happy, then Amigos will be like one big hit of dopamine. Slinging 16 choices of soft taco combos, mains and yummy sides to amp up the lively marketplace vibes. And did we mention their $6 Taco Tuesday? Andale!
Queenstown
Little Mez
Tucked beneath Queenstown icon Margo’s, lies its sophisticated sibling, Little Mez—This underground speakeasy-eske bar is Queenstown’s first Agaveria AKA home of agave-based spirit, don’t worry, lots of mocktails on offer. If you can’t make up your mind, the passionate team of mixologists will introduce you to the ‘Trust Little Mez’ option—sit back, relax and let the team create a unique flavour profile to suit your taste.
Wanaka
Alchemy
A classic bistro on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Alchemy is all about the views. Whether you’re after a long brunch or a welcoming spot for dinner, this contemporary eatery provides the goods from morning until late, seven days a week. Have a toastie in the AM and pork belly in the PM, this is warming food with an Alchemy twist.
Check out the AF map for the full list of venues and ask your bartender for AF Drinks. They’re footing the bill so why not?