Hops & Claret — Restaurant in Devonport-Takapuna

We popped in before (and again after) a show at the Bruce Mason Centre, and this little bar was the perfect spot. On a cold night, its dimly lit, cosy atmosphere felt warm and inviting — and it absolutely delivered.

There’s a small but well-curated selection of wines, some lovely artisan gins, and what looked like a good beer list too. While the prices are on the higher side, the quality makes it worthwhile — I’d highly recommend the Yalumba 2022 Shiraz.

Although we didn’t have time to eat, the menu of delicious-looking share plates was very tempting. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, and the whole place had a relaxed, lounge-room vibe.

Great spot — we’ll...

Very unwelcoming, sarctistic woman working behind the bar. We waited at the door for a while but no one attending so we went inside and to the bar that has no current customers at it. We waited at this bar area for another few minutes before asking the bartender if there was an available table and she coldly and sarcastically told us to sit down where you can find. To which we did, not wanting to take a reserve table, but subsequently as we were not seated by the waitress we waited for service for around 5+ minutes as she passed us constantly but typed into the POS System. We eventually ended up getting up and leaving which is unfortunate as the menu...

A really lovely dining experience enhanced by the delightful Louise, who was there when we needed her, and discretely in the background when we didn't.

The food was amazing and very well priced, we had Beefcheek Croquettes, Morrocon Chicken Skewers and a cheeky side of shoestring fries. All perfect for sharing.

Everything came with it's own chef-crafted sauce or dip. Very yum!

A great discovery for us, and we look forward to our return the next time we are...