About Phoenix Cabaret
Phoenix Cabaret is a one-of-a-kind dinner cabaret venue on Auckland’s famed Karangahape Road (K’Road). It offers a live drag-queen stage show alongside a two-course buffet, creating a flamboyant “dinner theatre” experience (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). The setting is an intimate, newly-renovated space (with a full commercial kitchen) (www.bayleys.co.nz ), designed to feel like a cosy cabaret lounge. The theatre programming emphasizes award-winning Kiwi drag performers, high camp comedy, and dazzling costumes (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) – in fact, one local write-up even calls it “Auckland’s biggest Drag Queen stage show and dinner theatre experience” (paintvine.co.nz ). In other words, Phoenix Cabaret is notable for blending an upscale dinner with wild drag entertainment, making it a standout spot in Auckland’s central nightlife.
Located at Level 1, 258 Karangahape Road (Newton, Auckland CBD), Phoenix occupies a corridor frontage on bustling K’Road. This street has a long history as an alternative, queer-friendly entertainment strip (css.washingtonpost.com ), and Phoenix carries on that tradition with a modern fit-out. The interior has a stage at one end and closely-arranged dining tables; guests enjoy dinner at the table while watching the live show. Owners and producers include well-known Auckland drag artists such as Kita Mean and Anita Wigl’it (of Caluzzi Drag Cabaret), who often host and perform there (gayexpress.co.nz ). Phoenix Cabaret opened around 2019 and quickly became a home for drag-and-dine; for example, in January 2020 it hosted a charity drag-and-burlesque fundraiser for Australian firefighters (gayexpress.co.nz ). Overall, the venue’s signature is its lively, inclusive atmosphere – blending theatre, comedy and nightclub energy in the heart of Auckland’s city fringe.
Venue specifications: Phoenix is an indoor venue seating roughly dozens of guests (an intimate size rather than a large theatre). The space was recently refurbished with a full commercial kitchen and cabaret-style stage (www.bayleys.co.nz ), and features professional sound and lighting rigs suited to live performance. There is a bar counter inside serving cocktails, wine and beer, and the buffet dinner is served at guests’ tables (buffet dishes change but always include options like beef, chicken curry, fish, and vegan dishes (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz )). In true cabaret fashion, tables are arranged close to the stage for good viewing. The overall vibe is glamorous yet relaxed – think glittering sequins, neon lights and upbeat pop-and-dance music. While the décor is not historic heritage, it nicely evokes classic nightclub-cabaret style to fit the high-energy shows.
Events and Programming
Phoenix Cabaret is best known for its regular drag-and-dinner shows, but its calendar includes a variety of themed nights and guest performances. The standard offering is a multi-act drag cabaret show served with buffet dinner (usually running most nights or several nights a week). Beyond that, Phoenix often hosts special events targeted at the LGBTQ+ community and nightlife fans. For example, it has been the home of drag competitions like “Drag Wars” and “Drag Derby” (run by Kita Mean and Anita Wigl’it) (gayexpress.co.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), where contestants battle in lip-sync and costume challenges. These competitions recur regularly and draw a loyal crowd. Other recurring events include Pride Festival drag shows (such as “Trans Pride Drag Show: Auckland Pride Festival” (www.eventfinda.co.nz )) and party nights like the “BANG: Queer New Year Party” on December 31 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). These marquee events often sell special tickets on event platforms.
In addition, Phoenix hosts concerts and variety shows. Touring acts occasionally come through – for instance, famous drag acts from RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under have done meet-and-greet nights and performances at Phoenix (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The venue has also seen comedy and burlesque shows; in 2018 it ran a burlesque battle hosted by Kita Mean and Anita Wigl’it (gayexpress.co.nz ). Men’s revues and cabaret shows appear too: a show called “Men of Steel: NZ’s Ultimate Male Revue” ran at Phoenix in recent years (tickets around $54) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). So the programming mixes drag queens, male dancers, comedians and burlesque performers. Many events are sequenced: for example, a show might sell dinner-plus-show tickets, or have a separate performance with general admission. In summary, Phoenix’s program is typically high-energy and glittery, with drag queens as regular headliners and occasional guest artists or themed evenings.
Ticket prices vary by event: the signature dinner-cabaret is a fixed-price package (currently $169 all-inclusive) (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ), while standalone shows are ticketed per performance. For standard shows (non-dinner), expect ticket tiers ranging from budget ($20-30) up to ~$60 or more for premium seats or special acts. Events like drag competitions or holiday parties sometimes have tiered pricing. In general, Phoenix targets a crowd happy to spend a full evening out, so prices reflect food and full production values. (Folks on a budget often come for individual drinks or skip the dinner night.) No matter the event, programming is lively and communal – attendees can expect roaring drag numbers, audience participation, and plenty of sing-along or dance-along moments.
Tickets and Booking
For Phoenix Cabaret’s regular dinner show, tickets must be booked in advance – there’s no walk-up ticketing on the night. The official website handles reservations, and payment is taken online. The price is flat: $169 per person for the two-course buffet and show (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). (This covers the full evening – you arrive, eat, and watch the show at one set price. Drinks and any extras are extra.) Groups are welcome, which is why the venue often markets to hens parties, birthdays and corporate functions (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) – but each person still pays the per-head price. If you have dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, allergies, etc.), you’re asked to note that when booking; the kitchen can accommodate many diets (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). All in all, booking the standard drag-dinner show is simple: choose a date on the website, pay online (handy to carry ID later), and you’re set. Reservation confirmations and any pre-event instructions are sent by email.
Special events and guest shows (non-dinner evenings) may have separate ticketing. These are typically sold through trusted ticket platforms or the Phoenix site. There is no public box office counter – even walk-in sales for shows usually go through the online or phone booking line. The venue suggests booking popular events early. Advice: check the Phoenix Cabaret “Events” page or social media for announcements of upcoming shows (Drag Wars, holiday parties, etc.). These can sell out quickly during busy seasons (summer, Pride, New Year’s, etc.). When buying, expect booking fees on third-party sites, or the full amount on the website. If an event offers a sort of “buy before X date” deal, that is worth it, but otherwise the listed price is standard. In short, plan ahead: book the beef-soy with spit effects (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) (i.e. the dinner show) well in advance, and snap up hot tickets for one-off drag events as soon as you can.
On the day of your reservation, the venue opens around 7:00 PM for sign-in (for example, the dinner nights begin seating promptly at 7:30 PM (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz )). Staff will check your name at the door. Typically, each booking is guaranteed a seat, but arriving late can be risky since the show starts on time. Phoenix’s policy asks that all guests be seated by 7:30 PM for the show start (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). Unlike a general admission club, there’s no “rush for the front” – your table is assigned when you book. For big groups, it’s prudent to arrive together so everyone is seated. Overall, the ticketing approach is straightforward – it’s a sit-down dinner theatre, so treat it like reserving a restaurant table for a special show.
Seating and Layout
Phoenix Cabaret’s floorplan is an intimate dining-theatre layout. The main area is a single room with a stage at one end and dining tables facing it. Each table seats 4–8 people and has a clear view of the stage; there are no large pillars obstructing sightlines. Seating is assigned by staff (and likely corresponds to how you group-booked). The best seats are typically at smaller tables close to the stage, as they offer an unobstructed view and a more immersive feel when performers are within arm’s reach. Larger groups might get longer tables a bit farther back. There’s no traditional balcony – all seating is on one level. For guests who want that premium proximity, aim to book early (front tables go quickly).
In dimensions, the stage is modestly sized (just large enough for dance numbers and quick costume changes). Typical acoustic is club-quality: the venue has professional PA speakers and stage monitors, so vocals and music come through clearly. The shape of the room means sound fills it nicely without echo. Lighting-wise, there are stage spotlights and color-changing LEDs to enhance each act. As a result, even back-row tables enjoy good audio and lighting, though front rows get the best sense of presence.
One unique feature: because it’s a dinner show, there are servers walking amongst the tables. This means if you’re seated at the back, it might take slightly longer to reach the bar or restroom (servers have to weave through rows). Also, the walkway for staff to the kitchen does partially cut behind some tables, so those seats might occasionally see silhouettes moving in the back. For shy guests, a seat in the center-front row gives full-on stage views. For party-goers who prefer mingling, the back tables leave quick access to the entrance and bar during breaks.
There is also a small raised platform area on one side (sometimes used as a VIP or “escorting” spot). On regular nights it’s just another table but can be reserved for special packages if offered. In any case, avoid sitting near the speakers (usually stage left) if you’re sensitive to volume. Otherwise, every table gets equal footing once the show starts – performers love circulating through the audience, so even “side” tables can be in the middle of the action. Lastly, note that the venue is generally sold as all-seated during dinner shows (no standing room); outside of dinner-events there may be some standing at the back for general-admission nights, but most visitors at Phoenix expect to be seated.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Phoenix Cabaret is located at 258 Karangahape Rd (Level 1) in Newton, just off the southeast end of K’Road, a few minutes’ walk from the main Queen Street / CBD nightlife area. The address is inside the “Hippopotamus” building complex. It’s easy to spot by walking under the large neon sign and stairs up to the first floor entrance. If you’re arriving on foot from downtown, walk down K’Road from Queen St or take Grafton Bridge on the east – either way it’s roughly a 10-minute stroll from Aotea, Myers Park or the CBD. For orientation: it’s across the road from St Kevin’s Arcade (near Mercury Lane) and just west of Scotland St.
Public Transit: Many Auckland buses run along K’Road and stop nearby – routes like the 14, 18, 22, 27, 75, 295 and CTR (Central Ring) service K’Road directly (www.karangahaperoad.com ). As the Karangahape Road precinct’s site notes, buses generally run from about 6 AM to 3 AM, so you can easily get a ride late at night (www.karangahaperoad.com ). (Check the AT Mobile app or Google Maps for specific routes and times.) The upcoming City Rail Link will add a K’Road station by 2026, but currently the closest train stations are Mt Eden (about a 15–20 min walk) and Grafton (about a 15-min walk) (www.karangahaperoad.com ). In practice most visitors take bus or ride-share straight to K’Road or nearby Queen Street.
Driving & Parking: If coming by car, there is limited street parking on Karangahape Road and side streets. Expect to pay roughly $4.50 per hour in paid parking spaces near Phoenix (www.karangahaperoad.com ). Vacancy can be tough on busy nights (weekends), so allow extra time to find a spot. Alternatively, there are pay parking buildings nearby. For example, a Wilson Parking lot on Liverpool St or Cross St charges about $8–$12 per hour (www.karangahaperoad.com ). The Karangahape Road district page suggests nearby lots often charge $6–$10/h (rates by location vary) (www.karangahaperoad.com ). If you plan to stay late, note special parking deals: some street meters and some Wilsons lots allow up to 12 hours (e.g. West St has $12 max for 12 h (www.karangahaperoad.com )). Rideshare drop-offs are easy too – just ask your driver to let you off on Karangahape Road near Scotland or Liverpool St. There’s a taxi stand on Queen Street/Uptown easily walkable, but otherwise normal ride-share apps work well in Auckland.
Accessibility: The venue is on the first floor up a staircase, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues. (Check in advance if there is a lift – if not, bring this up at booking time.) K’Road has curb cuts and footpaths, and AT’s accessibility map can guide transit stops with ramp access (www.karangahaperoad.com ). Several AT buses on K-Road are wheelchair-accessible, and there are on-street Disability carparks along K’Road (e.g. near Mercury Lane). If travel is an issue, consider parking at a nearby station and walking, or contacting Phoenix in advance for assistance. Overall, K-Road is somewhat hilly but fully urban, so it’s doable with care. For families or group travel, taxis or Uber to K-Road are often the most convenient option.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at Phoenix Cabaret, you’ll enter at ground level and head upstairs to the performance space. Expect a friendly host at the door to greet, take your name and show you in. Security is low-key but polite; larger bags might be checked. Once inside, the ambience is nightclub-casual: warm low lighting, retro-cabaret decor, and live music or chatter from before the show. The room layout has all tables facing the stage, so seating is in a theatre-in-the-round style (with the stage at one end). The bar is along the side or back wall – after being seated, you can order drinks (cocktails, wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks) from your server or at the bar during the show’s break. A coat rack or coat check service may be available near the entrance if needed, but most wear jackets on chairs (space is limited). The overall mood is fun and lively; many guests dress up a bit (glittery outfits and heels are common), but there is no formal dress code as long as you’re not in beachwear.
The atmosphere during show time is energetic. Performers engage with the audience – expect impromptu banter, group games or photo moments. There might be some participatory bits (e.g. guests being called onstage for mini sketches). If there are breaks (e.g. between courses), lively entertainment or music keeps the crowd tapping. Photo-taking is common, but staff may discourage flash photography on stage (so as not to blind the performers). You can usually snap pictures of the show if it’s allowed – just be discreet. Drinks and snacks can be refilled during the show intermissions. The restrooms are located off to the sides, typically one on each side of the hall, so you won’t miss much if you step out quietly during a shift change (shows often schedule short breaks between sets). WiFi likely isn’t a focus – it’s more about unplugging and enjoying live fun – but your mobile should get decent reception inside.
In terms of amenities: there’s a full bar serving everything from beer and wine to spirits and soft drinks. Expect the typical late-night lounge cocktail menu. Food is served buffet-style by staff (you don’t roam to a buffet line yourself). Servers deliver plates and replenish drinks as needed. There’s a small merchandise area near the door where performers might sell postcards or photos of themselves, though it’s not used heavily (fans tend to collect autographs instead). A cloak check service is not guaranteed (as seating is tight and real estate is premium), so it’s best to travel light or tuck coats under your chair. Overall, inside you’ll find a casual yet polished club setting – no injected scents or gimmicks, just a straightforward supper-club vibe with pulsing music and lots of laughter.
Security and policies: The venue promotes a safe, friendly environment. Bags might be lightly screened at the entrance. Outside beverages/food are not allowed. Smoking indoors is banned (as per NZ law), though there may be a small sheltered smoking area outside if needed. The event staff and doormen keep an eye on comfort levels; in the rare case of any trouble (e.g. someone too intoxicated), they are quick to intervene. In short, expect a high-energy but well-managed event atmosphere.
Nearby Amenities
Karangahape Road is famed for its eclectic mix of cafés, bars and restaurants – it’s part of the fun of visiting Phoenix that you can explore the area before or after the show. For pre-show dinners (if you come extra early), options include local favorites like Coco’s Cantina (Italian, pizza/pasta), East St. Cantina (Mexican taqueria) or Oromo Café & Bar (coffee and small plates) a block away. There are also shops like SAVA (pizza, cocktails) and casual spots along K’Road. If you prefer to do pre-drinks, several wine bars and cocktail lounges line the street. On a weekday or late Sunday, some places may be quieter, but weekend evenings K-Road buzzes with nightlife. Remember that Phoenix’s own two-course buffet starts as soon as the doors open, so arriving very early to eat elsewhere might not be necessary unless you want extra time to socialize.
After the show, K’Road offers plenty of late-night eats. Indeed, many patrons head for pies or fast food, but there are also Asian eateries (Cantonese and Korean spots along Symonds Street, a block north), or the classy Motel bar a few blocks in the other direction for nightcaps. Ride-share vehicles commonly pick up in the area, so it’s easy to get home late. Taxis tend to head to main roads, but for a quick ride you might walk a few blocks toward Queen Street to hail one (or use an app like MyTaxi or Uber).
Hotels near Phoenix include several inner-city options. The Grand Millennium Auckland, CityLife Auckland and SkyCity Hotel on Queen Street are a 10-15 min walk away for upscale stays. For boutique lodging, nearby Ponsonby or Westmere have bed-and-breakfasts. The Karangahape-Kingsland area has a few budget hostels too. (If you’re on a K’Road bar crawl, plan accommodations in town or nearby suburbs.)
Timing Tips: If your show starts at 7:30 PM, arriving around 7–7:15 PM is ideal. This gives time to check coats (if possible), use the restroom, and settle in for dinner service. Doors typically open 15–30 minutes before showtime. Aim to be inside by showtime exactly, as performances usually begin promptly. As K’Road has live music venues nearby, noise in the bar area before doors open can be high – go upstairs early if you see the door open. After the show, note that transport runs late: the last buses on main K’Road routes can run until 2-3 AM (www.karangahaperoad.com ), and taxis/Ubers are plentiful. Plan your trip back (or stay in the city center) if your show ends very late.
What Makes This Venue Special
Phoenix Cabaret stands out because it carries the legacy of Auckland’s legendary drag and queer culture into the modern era. Karangahape Road has long been a safe space for drag performers – as one travel article notes, the street’s early clubs (like the Las Vegas Club and Windmill Follies) were “the] first drag performer” venues where entertainers could be themselves ([css.washingtonpost.com ). Phoenix taps into that history. Its co-owners/performers like Kita Mean (RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under winner) and Anita Wigl’it have decades of drag experience, so guests are seeing top-tier Kiwi drag talent. The close-up, cabaret style of the venue means performers often interact with the crowd – the connection between “drag performers and largely straight audiences” is something K-Road venues have been praised for (css.washingtonpost.com ) (css.washingtonpost.com ). In other words, even if it’s your first time at a drag show, Phoenix makes it accessible and fun for everyone.
Phoenix also brought a fresh chapter to K-Road’s nightlife by combining the drag hunt with dining. There are few places that offer an all-in-one night out: you arrive as dinner guests and leave as audience members (and vice versa). This fusion of dining and drag-100% live entertainment is relatively unique in Auckland. Historically, K-Road had cabaret nights (e.g. Caluzzi’s drag dinners) and dance clubs, but Phoenix combined elements of both. Its interior (recently refurbished (www.bayleys.co.nz )) reflects a modern nightclub with a theatre stage – allowing designers to include risers, lighting rigs and even LED screens (if used on special nights) that many older venues can’t easily accommodate.
Culturally, Phoenix is significant because it’s all-ages-friendly by approach (though shows are adult-themed, they are not explicitly 18+ events in policy), and it draws a wide range of people. Families, straight couples, tourists, stag/hen parties, and LGBTQ+ patrons all mingle here, bridging communities. Local tradition aside, Phoenix has become a bit of a rite-of-passage for visiting entertainers too – several high-profile performers have chosen it for their Auckland debut. Even the broader Auckland community has embraced it; for instance, during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup festival, it attracted international Pride festival crowds. In short, Phoenix Cabaret matters to the city because it revives a classic cabaret form with a contemporary twist, and it strengthens Auckland’s reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly cultural hub.
Notably, Phoenix does more than entertain; it also supports the community. Through fundraisers like the one for Australian firefighters (gayexpress.co.nz ) and hosting local drag charity events, its presence has a positive social impact. Economically, it keeps K-Road vibrant and drives foot traffic that benefits nearby bars and taxis late at night. Performers often say they love Phoenix because it’s run by artists who care about the experience – meaning the production values and atmosphere feel genuine, not corporate. Legendary local drag performers often hail Phoenix as their favorite stage due to this close-knit vibe. All these factors – its top-tier drag roster, its melting-pot audience, and its role in keeping K’Road’s queer heritage alive – make Phoenix Cabaret a special cornerstone of central Auckland’s nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: If you have any mobility issues, ring ahead to ask about elevator access. The venue is on level 1 (first floor up a staircase), so hope for an elevator or assistance with stairs. Otherwise, large strollers or wheelchairs may be difficult. Restrooms appear to be single stalls, so “tablestoilet” (i.e. plan breaks between courses) is helpful. Hearing-impaired guests will find the sound level loud during music numbers; consider earplugs if needed. Phoenix can accommodate dietary restrictions if advised in advance (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) (gluten-free, nut-free, vegetarian or vegan options are available on the buffet). Let them know at booking time about allergies so they prepare safe dishes (as noted on their menu disclaimer (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz )).
What to Bring / Wear: Dress code is smart-casual. You’ll see dresses, jeans and dress shirts, and of course plenty of drag-inspired outfits. It’s not formal, but a little colourful flair fits the vibe. Comfortable shoes are wise – worn heels can be precarious on a small dance-floor stage. Bring a form of ID if you plan to drink. Photography gear beyond your phone (like professional cameras) is best avoided unless approved. A small bag (purse-sized) is fine; there’s no large locker. Note, however, that umbrellas and large backpacks should be checked or left in the car – space is tight inside.
General Tips: Arrive on time. Late arrivals risk missing the first act because shows start promptly. Have dinner first if you must, but remember the Phoenix buffet is included. If you eat out before, treat Phoenix’s dinner as an additional treat. Do use the restroom before the show starts (the small audience size means there's often a short break, but you won’t want to leave mid-act). Tip generously if a server has done a good job – the service is part of the experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t think of Phoenix as a regular nightclub; it’s a sit-down theatre format. That means no loud interactive clubbing until after the final curtain. People sometimes mistakenly line up for drinks thinking the show is still centered in a club. Instead, focus on the performance – applause and dancing in your seat. Another mistake is underestimating the price: $169 includes dinner and the show, so don’t expect a cheap night out. But it usually delivers solid value given the quality of entertainment and food.
Age Restrictions and Family Friendly? The shows are adult-oriented (comedy and innuendo, not raw eroticism), but they are generally open to older teens with parents. There’s no official child policy noted, but it’s safest to treat this as “teen-and-up” entertainment rather than a children’s show. (We’ve seen groups of teens with parents here, but babies in arms or very young kids would likely find it overstimulating.)
Parking and Transit Later: If you drive, note the late-night on-street parking rate: after 6 PM, meters often drop to $2–$3/h (K’Road has a mixed schedule). Some Wilson lots allow overnight stays (look for 15 CityRd or 75 K Rd, which have up to 12-hour pricing (www.karangahaperoad.com )). For trains, keep an eye on alerts after midnight – if services stop, you may need to cab or bus home. Alternatively, book a ride-share for drop-off at the end; Ubers can line up around Queen Street after big events.
Last-Minute and Walk-Ins: Unless it’s a very slow night (rare on weekends), Phoenix rarely has unsold seats. There is no traditional queue or ticket counter at the door; you can try asking at the entrance if space is available, but even then the $169 dinner seats are probably sold. Spontaneous shows (like a drag improv pop-up advertised on social media) may allow on-the-spot tickets, but confirm by phone first.
Insider Knowledge: If you really want to guarantee a great spot, call Phoenix on the day and mention you’d love a front table (they sometimes accommodate requests based on availability). Also note that performers often come out to mingle after the show – lining up for autographs or quick selfies can be fun. Finally, grab a coat-check tick before the crowd leaves (if offered); it gets quite cool stepping out into Ponsonby’s night, and coats pile up on just benches otherwise.
In summary: arrive early (7–7:15 PM), bring ID, enjoy the included buffet, and get ready for a lively, theatrical evening. You’ll leave feeling you’ve seen a big show in a small space – because Phoenix’s mix of dinner and drag truly is something you won’t find just anywhere in Auckland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Phoenix Cabaret?
Phoenix Cabaret is an intimate venue. It seats roughly several dozen people around dining tables facing the stage. Exact capacity isn’t published, but it’s small enough that most shows sell out – think on the order of 50–80 guests, not hundreds.
How do I buy tickets for Phoenix Cabaret shows?
Tickets are sold online, typically via the Phoenix Cabaret website or authorized ticket platforms. For the standard dinner-show, you book in advance on the Phoenix site (it’s $169 per person) (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). For special events (like Pride shows, drag battles, etc.), tickets also go on sale via Eventfinda or similar. There’s no public box office counter; you should buy before the night of the show.
What is the pricing and what's included?
The standard drag-cabaret dinner is a flat $169 per person, which includes a two-course buffet dinner and the full show (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). Drinks are paid separately (a cash or card bar is available). Special events have their own pricing – for example, some drag competition nights might be $20–$60 depending on seating. Club shows and guest acts range from about $20 up to $80. Always check the listing when booking.
Is there a way to get tickets at the door?
Generally, no. Phoenix Cabaret relies on advance reservations, especially for the dinner shows. On busy nights, all seats are usually pre-sold. You can inquire on the day, but it’s unlikely unless it’s an atypically quiet evening. Best strategy is to book online ahead. If any tickets remain unclaimed shortly before showtime, staff may release them at the door, but this is rare.
What time should I arrive for a show?
Doors open around 7:00 PM, and seats are taken by 7:30 PM for a 7:30 PM start (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). Plan to be inside by 7:15 PM to settle at your table. Late arrivals risk missing the beginning. If you arrive very early, you may have a short wait in the lobby area while staff prepare seating.
Are children or minors allowed?
Phoenix Cabaret’s shows are adult-oriented in content (drag comedy, innuendo, etc.). There’s no strict posted age limit, but parents with teens should use discretion. In practice you’ll see mostly adults, though well-behaved older teens (e.g. 16+) with families sometimes attend. It’s not designed as a kids’ show, so very young children might find it loud or confusing. If in doubt, check with staff before booking.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Phoenix is on level 1 up a flight of stairs. If there is an elevator available, it’s best to confirm with the venue. Some patrons arrange to meet at street level if stairs are a problem. Karangahape Road has accessible buses and curb ramps, but the performance space itself may have limited wheelchair access unless pre-arranged. Call ahead if you need assistance, as staff can advise the best option.
What is the seating arrangement? Are there different sections?
Seating at Phoenix is table-style, all on one floor in front of the stage. You’ll be assigned a specific table or seat area mid-level or front, depending on your group size and booking. There are no balconies – it’s a single-room cabaret set-up. Some tables are just a few feet from the stage. Typically, all seats have a good view, though smaller front tables get the concentrates of the action. There are no strict sections labeled in advance, but servers do their best to honour any seating requests when possible.
Are drinks included or do I pay extra at the bar?
Drinks are paid separately. The ticket price covers only your food and entertainment. Phoenix has a full cash/card bar. You can order wine, beer, cocktails or soft drinks during the show. It’s a good idea to bring a credit card or cash along with your entry, as drink orders are tabbed to your seat.
What are the parking options and costs?
You can park on the street or in nearby lots. Street parking around Karangahape Road is roughly $4.50/hour (www.karangahaperoad.com ) (and meters may apply from 8 AM to late evening). Nearby Wilson Parking lots charge about $6–$12/hour (www.karangahaperoad.com ). For example, the lot on 15 City Rd is about $10/h. Check Parkopedia or signage when you park; also some lots have maximum daily rates (like $12 for 12 hours). If you arrive during the day and stay late, consider a long-term lot. Alternatively, rideshare drop-off (Uber, Lyft) on K-Road is common and often easiest to avoid parking hassles.
Are there age restrictions for entry?
Phoenix Cabaret doesn’t enforce a strict age cutoff, but it’s mainly geared to adults. Performances have mature humor. Minors are usually allowed if accompanied by an adult, but very young children might not enjoy it. No ID is checked at the door unless you plan to buy alcohol. If any event has its own restriction (say, an over-18 men’s revue or similar), it will be noted on the event listing.
Is there a dress code at Phoenix Cabaret?
The dress code is smart-casual. Guests often dress up a bit – think nice trousers or dresses. Sparkly or retro outfits fit the vibe. No shorts or sportswear. It’s better to be a bit overdressed than too casual. Comfortable shoes are recommended (the floors are flat but you will be dancing in your seat).
Can I buy tickets at Phoenix’s box office?
Phoenix doesn’t have a traditional “box office” window. Most sales happen online. For last-minute needs, you could call them, but be prepared that the show might be full. Generally, plan to book online or by phone in advance, rather than expecting to walk up the night of a show.
What happens if I arrive late?
Shows begin promptly at the advertised time (usually 7:30 PM for dinner nights (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz )). If you arrive after the start, you may miss part of the opening act. The show may not pause extensively for latecomers. If unavoidable, slip in quietly and find your table; just know the show often goes on schedule. Best to arrive slightly early.
Does Phoenix Cabaret serve vegetarian or gluten-free food?
Yes. The buffet menu includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. When booking, you can note special dietary requirements (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). For example, salads are vegan/GF, and dishes like vegan korma or vegetables are fully GF/vegan (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ) (www.phoenixcabaret.co.nz ). Just inform the venue in advance to ensure plenty is prepared.
Are cameras or phones allowed during the show?
Yes, most guests take photos or videos with their phones (usually without flash). Flash photography may be discouraged during performances, so be discreet. The entertainers often encourage selfies or group pics with the crowd after numbers. Please be respectful; no professional photography or filming rig without permission.
Is Phoenix Cabaret family-friendly?
Phoenix is not a children’s show. There’s mature humor and adult themes in the drag performances. However, it’s a judgment call: some older teens and playfully open-minded younger adults enjoy it. The venue itself is not “no kids allowed,” but be aware of the content. Many patrons consider it an 18+ atmosphere, even if that isn’t enforced. It’s safest to treat it like attending a late-night variety club.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your ticket confirmation (printed or on phone) and a valid ID if you plan to drink. Carry some cash or card for drinks. A jacket or wrap may be wise for after the show (it can get cool on K-Road at night). You don’t need to bring much else – everything is provided. Dress comfortably but festively, and get ready to have fun!
Does Phoenix Cabaret have a history of memorable performances?
As a relatively new venue, Phoenix’s history is short but vibrant. It’s known for launching events like the drag battle “Drag Wars” and hosting NZ drag celebs. Many visitors cite seeing Kiwi drag icons like Kita Mean live there as a highlight. It was even used as a set for Kita’s music video in 2021 (gayexpress.co.nz ). In short, patrons often remember Phoenix for its high-energy shows and being part of Auckland’s queer nightlife tradition.
