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 quizzes are your thing, be sure to also check out Munch every Thursday or keep an eye on The Cobb for their frequent quiz nights. It’s a great excuse for some after hours team bonding!

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 the woodfired pizza at Drovers Bar and Kitchen in Feilding is worth the drive.

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!