Waitoa Social Club — Restaurant in North Island

For a brewery the beers were in all honesty, nothing to write home about. The entire setup has a very "mom & pop" vibe to the place, especially as how the staff member who served us had to vacate the table that she was sitting on drinking wine so we could have a seat. The design of the place seems to be DIY, if DIY means "unfinished interior". As one of our party was driving, we inquired as to whether there was any orange juice available. Was told if ginger beer would be acceptable as they were unsure if they had any orange juice on site... despite advertising mimosas. Oh, and their hot chips come from the takeaway shop across the road... interesting when they charge $2.50 for a scoop of chips but then Waitoa upsell to $6. Little bit hard to hide the fact that they don't cook onsite when the staff from the local chippie come waltzing in the front door with a wrapped packet of chips. That might fly in the backwoods, but not in the city. Even on the outskirts of the city. So what happens when the takeaway shop closes...

Great experience! Came down to watch the Melbourne Cup, had a few beers and stayed on to do the pub quiz. Had a grand time. They have an awesome policy of allowing food in from the local area and are top blokes. Also they brew their own beers and they aren't too shabby at all.

One negative, the floor was drenched from where you had mopped the place. Dead slippy and not enough wet floor signs, nearly stacked it on the way out the bathroom. I can't see any reason why I won't bump this score up to a five after my next visit but wanted to give out some...

Very nice range of quality beer to enjoy while sitting among the vats. Cool! The quiz on Wednesday is super, winner gets a bar tab. A little light on atmosphere but the perfect setting for a chat or a board game during off-peak. AND they will order food on your behalf from the local takeaways and bring it to you which is a really great service. Plus they have free feminine hygiene products if you get caught out.

Incidentally, I also did a paint and wine night here too, which...