Six Auckland bars that specialise in classic cocktails

Everyone dreams about having their Carrie Bradshaw moment, clocking off work and sipping Cosmopolitans with your clique.

With Auckland bars experimenting with new cocktails and modern menus, it’s almost impossible to find a place where you can order a good-ol, classic cocktail straight off the menu.  

So, we took it upon ourselves to frequent some of Auckland's best bars to sniff out the classics worth rediscovering. Check out our top libations, here: 

The best spot for: Cosmopolitans Big Little Grill, Elliot Stables It might be known for its food, but they serve some of the traditional cocktails on their alcohol list. You can order a signature Cosmopolitan, Margaritas, Martinis, Long Island Iced Tea and Moscow Mule. Plus, they’re more than happy for you to stick to beverages but their platters are an ideal way to pace your way through the drink menu.

The best spot for: Margaritas Mo’s Bar, Federal Street Tucked away on the corner of Federal Street, Mo’s Bar has been serving up drinks for over 20 years. Mo’s has a wide selection of cocktails and is one of the unique spots that make the timeless classics, from Margaritas and Manhattans to Daiquiris.

The best spot for: Mai Tais Bedford Soda & Liquor, Ponsonby Famous for their delicious alcoholic creations, and ‘gramable presentation, this is the perfect spot to order a cocktail on a night out with friends. You won’t see traditional cocktails on their menu, but if you study the ingredients of their drinks you can order something pretty close to a classic. A pro tip: if you ask nicely your bartender might be willing to mix you up a drink request.

The best for: Gin & Tonics Gin Room, Vulcan Lane The Gin Room is classic parlour bar, dedicated to making cocktails. You can order all of the classics from their menu, and of course, we recommend ordering at least one gin cocktail.

The best for: Pimm's Jugs Britomart Country Club The open-plan bar is known for its social atmosphere. Scan the menu and you’ll see an array of fruity and fresh drinks, at the moment there’s one called the David Beckham. At the very bottom, you’ll see that they have an option of “all the classics”, so you’re free to order whatever you desire.

The best for: Espresso Martinis Mea Culpa, Ponsonby Mea Culpa is known for changing up its menu each week, and there’s always something fresh to try. If you feel like trying your first classic cocktail - order from one of their skilled bar staff who will be happy to oblige.