If you want a pub in the city that lets you relax outside, the Empire Tavern has a good garden area. It can get pretty full thanks to its proximity to some largish companies that use it as their corporate local, but the lunches are hearty and the atmosphere is friendly. If you stick around into the night there's also live music every Friday and Saturday evenings inside the main bar.
CLEVEDON HOTEL
26 Kawakawa Bay Rd, Clevedon, ph (09) 292 8783.
A place for all ages - grab a drink, meal, or even stay the night. As well as the expected bar and garden bar, there is the Wairoa Restaurant - bistro-smart with a changing seasonal menu proudly featuring local oysters and wines. There are also regular quiz nights, local entertainers, bands and functions that support the local community.
NORTHCOTE TAVERN
37 Queen St, Northcote Pt, ph (09) 480 7707.
It isn't often you get the chance to sample a bit of history with your drink, but entering the Northcote Tavern is like walking back in time. It's not a trendy bar - it's a comfortable, friendly place with a decent range of cold beers and an amazing range of whiskies. It also gets points for having a stag's head on the wall, something rare in modern bars. The food is good, solid pub fare and the prices are more than acceptable, while the toilets are clean. Plus there's a lovely garden with picnic tables.
