Bringing a slice of the best hotel bars in the world to Tāmaki Makaurau, Sunset is now open atop Sudima Hotel on Nelson Street.
Decked out with ‘70s-inspired pastel shades, textural tiles, stone, and timber across various seating zones (including the incredible west-facing terrace for those golden hour 'grams), the 132-seat bar boasts show-stopping views across Westhaven, the Waitematā Harbour, Waitākere Ranges, Freemans Bay, Ponsonby and beyond.
Creative consultant Andrew Glenn (founder of Waiheke’s The Oyster Inn) collaborated with Dana Johnston (founder of iconic bars like 1885, Agents & Merchants, 46 & York and Pineapple On Parnell), Mikey Ball (a globally respected consultant and former head bartender of London’s Milk & Honey and Dandelyan), and Simon Kelly to offer an eclectic wine list, locally focussed beer selection, and seasonal menu of bespoke cocktails.
Opening highlights include the Pepper Leaf Fix with pink gin, boysenberry, kawakawa pepper and golden grapefruit juice, and the Bianco Machi combining umeshu, Suze, vermouth and yuzu tonic—perfect for an end-of-day sip.
The succinct food menu for sundowner snacking reflects Executive Chef Harmeet Singh Nanda’s Mumbai heritage, with additional global influence from chefs Maximus Perry and Samson Stewart (two of the talented trio behind award-winning Christchurch restaurant 5th Street).
Think masala waffle fries with grated parmesan and tomato kasundi, golden fried chicken with curried mustard and pickled onion, and crispy poppadoms with whipped avocado, green chilli and pomegranate salsa.
If, somehow, the stunning views don't tick all your boxes, Sunset also offers a rotating DJ program curated by Paris is Burning founder Cam Robertson, with DJ Sunset Sessions running daily.
Sunset is now open from 4pm Thursdays–Saturdays—you can plan your visit here.
Image credit: Sunset