Albar — Restaurant in Otago

Normally, Albar is a bar that has the right kind of friendly local atmosphere and beer selection that makes me want to give it a visit when I'm near the Octagon for drinks. Which is exactly why, when my family came to visit and we were waiting for a restaurant to open, I suggested we have some beer and tapas there.

However yesterday, the bartender (and I believe manager) named Frankie (woman perhaps in her thirties with brunette hair) was clearly having a bad day. When she was talking with some of the (presumably) locals that she knew, she was friendly. However, when dealing with my family and other unknown patrons, she was decidedly sour in demeanor and confrontational. My brother simply asked to taste of one of the sours you currently have on tap, and she proceeded to pour a small glass, drink it in front of my brother, and then describe it. I'd have even understood if she said they're not meant to give away samples (though how you know if you'll like a sour without a tiny sip, I don't know), or that you had to pay.

I'd like to think that Frankie was simply having a bad day and that this was an exception to the norm. However, her behavior was beyond neutral and well into being rude and unprofessional. There are plenty of other good places around Dunedin to have a drink. Frankie's rudeness has put a "sour" taste in my mouth about Albar, so I likely...

Amazing to have irish trad music on the Tuesday night. We arrived around 8 and left at around 9:30. They only played 2 songs in that time. We would have stayed longer if they played more often. Not a bad band. I'd give them 7/10. Tapas were really nice and a reasonable price. I surprised to see no Guinness or Kilkenny on tap (although realise that it is a scottish bar and not an Irish one). I had a Cassell milk stout which was a bit warm. Weird taste too. Maybe dirty lines? Overall, Alibar has so much potential but not quite hitting the spot for me. Could easily become my regular with...

A very nice Scottish bar in the centre of Dunedin. The atmosphere is cozy and there is a nice vibe to the place. It is quite small inside however, so on cold / rainy days it can be crowded inside. They have a good selection of many different beers and drinks. Their beer tasting is also quite nice, 5 beers for $14. A good way to try some different styles. The guy at the counter was very helpful in giving me advice on the drinks. Overall a good place to come and have a drink and...