Looking to catch up with a friend over a bevy? There are plenty of options across Manawatū.

Whether you’re after a crafty; Brew Union, Tony’s Pizza, something a little more classic; Neighbourhood (formerly Brewer’s Apprentice) Speight’s Ale House, Hilltop, or you want to share some tea, while sipping some pinot with girlfriends; The Strong Room, Focal Point, Bubbles.

There truly is something for everyone!

What sort of list would this be without a roundup of the Irish bars in town?

Rosie O’Grady’s, The Celtic Inn and Murray’s Irish Bar all offer the classic Irish pub feel with live music and happy hour specials throughout the week. They also just so happen to be home to some of the best weekly pub quizzes across the region.

If you’re hunting for even more quiz action, why not gather your brightest mates for Munch every Thursday, where you can outwit the competition and enjoy a fun night out. Or, keep an eye on The Cobb for their regular quiz nights—ideal for some after-hours team bonding and a dash of healthy rivalry.

And don’t miss Essence Cafe in Feilding! This local favourite brings the community together with its popular quiz nights every Thursday; it’s a fantastic place to challenge yourself, tuck into something delicious, and soak up the friendly Feilding vibe. Grab your friends, pick a team name, and see how you stack up against the locals!

After something a little fancier? Manawatū is home to some creative (and delicious) cocktail crafters!

You’ll know the local faves like The Fish and Little Savanna but have you heard of the new rooftop bar on Main Street - Teacher Teacher? This intimate cocktail space is open Thursday through Saturday.

While all of the bars on our list offer great food to accompany your drinks - trust us, eating is most certainly NOT cheating - we thought these few were worth an additional shout out.

Beaver and Bear offer sharing size plates from wings to poutine, yum! While Libre will spice up your life with Mexican tapas, and woodfired pizzas at The Farmers Son in Feilding can be perfectly paired with a cold pint and shared with friends. 

Don’t worry we didn’t forget about our friends living and working rurally.

There are a range of great, classic country pubs to choose from; Āpiti Tavern & Eatery, The Chelty Hotel, The Stockyard Bar and The Bunnythorpe Tavern can tell a few yarns.

Pull up a pew and chat to the locals, you won’t be disappointed!