Cork Bar — Restaurant in South Island

Had high expectations after reading recent reviews of this establishment. General appeal of this place is inviting and “fine beverage” dining so was expecting just that. It wasn’t overly busy when we arrived. Drinks menu looks great and a good variety of whiskey so I will give credit for that. It is a cosy little joint so I will also give credit for that. Two bar staff on, neither of which seem fit for a funky bar such as Cork. Young lass who served us seemed stoned, was not helpful and dreadfully under trained. Failed to realise she didn’t put our order through properly and we watched as she then proceeded to wipe glass jars with the most uninterested facial expression. The other staff member was back and forth to checking his phone. Neither showing much initiative, care for customer service or pride in the establishment. Really disappointed in...

Hmm place looks great. Ordered a bottle of Valli Pinot Gris. Took a couple of slugs, eewww tasted more like a Riesling ! Glance at bottle in dim light, yep it’s a Valli alright. Oh well. Box on. My bad. Eventually my companion and I have a glass left to finish so I decide to Check the bottle again, this time lift it up and turn it around to read label up close. Yep it’s a Valli. But a Riesling! Stupid me, but in my defence never expected to be served the wrong wine varietal. Too much has been consumed to complain I figure plus in the end I should have checked properly sooner. But I shouldn’t have ever had to in my view so hence the down mark, to which the rather lack lustre service in general helped drag down further. Live and learn. Not all their fault but then I’m the...

First time leaving a bad review :( Disappointing experience. Bartender looked like he had zero bar experience. Spilt 1/3 of the drink while pouring it into the glass but didn't bother to rectify it. $16 Mocktail came out half full, tasted terrible and somehow not chilled. Didn't finish the drink. Mentioned it to the manager on the way out who kindly offered a replacement. Replacement (made by manager) was great but experience was dulled again when he said THREE times that 'maybe you just don't like this drink' instead of taking accountability for the poor bar staff. Pretty presumptuous given it was only a basic cosmopolitan. Such a shame as we were really looking forward to...