About Empire Tavern
The Empire Tavern is a historic inner-city pub and rooftop bar in Auckland, renowned for its character and longevity. Built in the 19th century (around 1863) and operating as a tavern since the 1870s, it has become “central Auckland’s favourite watering hole for over 150 years” (stargroup.nz ). The Victorian-era brick building was carefully restored in the early 2000s, bringing the “grand old lady” façade back to life (www.resene.co.nz ). Today the venue blends vintage charm with modern touches. Its back courtyard – the leafy “Garden Bar” – features a semi-retractable roof, abundant plants and heaters, making a year-round outdoor lounge (empiretavern.wordpress.com ) (www.stargroup.nz ). The owners describe the Empire as “a pub with history, heart, and a hell of a lot of character… where everyone’s welcome, and the only rule is to have a good time” (stargroup.nz ). In fact, one local guide hails it as “one of Auckland’s leading entertainment venues with the best Garden Bar in Auckland” (empiretavern.wordpress.com ). In addition to the nostalgic interiors, the Empire includes a modern rooftop bar with city views and a private function suite (the “Press Room”) upstairs, so the building’s multiple levels accommodate both casual pub goers and private groups.
Events and Programming
Live music. The Empire hosts live DJs and bands on most weekend evenings. Star Group promotional materials advertise “good vibes and live music” every Friday and Saturday (around 6:30–9:00pm on Fridays and 7:00–10:00pm on Saturdays) (stargroup.nz ). Genres range from pop and rock to indie and dance, and the sound system and stage setup make it popular with both local cover bands and touring acts. (Even heavy rock shows pop up there – for example, a metal/punk gig in Aug 2025 listed a $10 advance admission (www.undertheradar.co.nz ).)Quiz and games nights. A weekly pub quiz runs every Tuesday at 7pm, drawing regular trivia crowds. The venue also hosts occasional novelty events (e.g. “Beats By Bingo” nights and holiday parties in Nov/Dec (stargroup.nz )).Sport and casual buzz. Each week the Tavern screens live sports in the bar area (“Sports Live & Loud”), so it’s a hub for fans to watch rugby, football, and other games on large screens (stargroup.nz ). Outside of special events, the atmosphere is relaxed; Thursday through Sunday the pub offers food all day (lunch and dinner), and regular patrons enjoy daily food-and-drink specials.Recurring deals. Empire Tavern takes part in Star Group’s daily promotions: for instance, Monday–Thursday pub lunches with a drink, burger-and-beer nights, schnitzel Tuesdays, and steak & fries Thursdays (many deals around $20–$30) (www.stargroup.nz ). These specials bring in after-work crowds and make the pub lively even when no music is playing.Notable acts. While it’s not a formal concert hall, the Empire has seen a mix of local talent. Many Auckland indie and cover bands have performed there over the years, fitting with its downtown pub setting. According to one review, the crowd often stands on tables and the place gets “full,” reflecting the venue’s standing-room-show nature (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).
Tickets and Booking
Empire Tavern generally operates on first-come entry, with no advance tickets required for casual visits. You can simply turn up as walk-in guests. The only time tickets or cover charges apply is for special music nights or promoted concerts. In practice, most live gigs at the Empire use a very modest cover fee – typically around NZ$10–$15 per person (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) – or are free to attend with a drink minimum. Those fees are often collected at the door or sold through local event sites (online purchase may be available, especially for higher-profile shows). For high-demand nights it’s wise to book ahead: the venue often recommends reserving tables for groups. In fact the pub’s own materials say “Book a table to lock in your spot” for busy weekends (stargroup.nz ). You can reserve tables directly through the Star Group’s booking system or by phone (the staff can advise on tickets if needed). In short, you usually don’t need tickets like at a theatre – just arrive early for popular shows or order a table in advance to secure your space.
Seating and Layout
Main Bar. The heart of the Tavern is the indoor bar area, which has a raised stage and performance space. It is a standing-room-friendly space with bar stools and high tables. (Reviews note that the interior is “much larger than the bar area appears from the street,” including an adjoining dining room that extends the public space (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).)Garden Bar. Through the main doors you enter the enclosed garden patio at the back. This inner-city oasis can be partially closed for rain or opened for sun – it even has a controllable roof (www.stargroup.nz ). It has its own private bar and heaters, and can accommodate about 250 people standing or 170 seated (www.stargroup.nz ).Rooftop Bar. Above the main building is a small open-air rooftop terrace. It comes with umbrellas and umbrellas and is fully private (though wet-weather dependent). This space fits roughly 50 cocktail-style or 30 seated people (www.stargroup.nz ), and offers expansive views of the city skyline.Press Room. On the upper level there is a curtained-off “Press Room” function lounge. It has a separate entrance and bathroom, making it useful for private events. Its capacity is about 80 standing or 45 seated (www.stargroup.nz ). When not used privately, it serves as extra bar seating or a meeting room.
Getting There and Parking
Empire Tavern is located at 137 Victoria Street West in Auckland’s CBD (corner of Nelson Street) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). It’s just a block from the Sky Tower and nearby the Aotea Square/Grand Théâtre area. By car, on-street parking is very limited and mostly metered. The nearest public parking lots are Wilson Parking’s lot at 156 Victoria Street West (just down the road, with casual rates from about NZ$6.50/hr) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ), and the Victoria Park Market carpark at 210 Victoria Street West (entry from Blake Street, roughly NZ$12/hr) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Street parking is timed, so paid lots are recommended. By public transit, the venue is well served: many city bus routes run along nearby Victoria and Wellesley Streets, and the Fremantle/Britomart train station is around a 10–15 minute walk. Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Ola) can easily drop off on Victoria St just outside the pub. In short, the CBD location means it’s convenient to reach by foot, bike, bus or car, but allow a few extra minutes if driving to find parking.
Inside the Venue
Inside, expect a lively pub atmosphere. The main bar area has rustic décor with wood and brick, plus TVs for sports. During events the lights darken and stage lights focus on the performers, but in daytime it’s well lit. Extensive beer taps line the bar – reviewers note “many beers on tap” including craft ales (though prices are moderate) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Food is served via a full kitchen: classic pub fare like burgers, pizzas (e.g. a Margarita pizza listed at ~$26) and steaks. (One reviewer even noted a special $10 scotch fillet steak deal (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).) A quick look at recent reviews shows the menu has salad, steak, pizzas and platters all averaging $15–$30 (www.tripadvisor.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The Tavern also runs drink specials during happy hour and early evening (e.g. beer jugs, cocktails). The upstairs Press Room and private areas stay accessible from inside. Restrooms are available on each level (the Press Room has its own washrooms) (www.stargroup.nz ). One nice amenity for locals is free Wi-Fi – patrons have reported “they even had free wifi” on site (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Coat racks or checkroom are not advertised, so it’s common to keep coats at your table. Overall the vibe inside is casual and friendly – as one reviewer put it, the staff are quick and the atmosphere “bright, airy” and welcoming (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Just note that popular nights can get crowded, so service can slow; patience and chatting with neighbors is part of the fun.
Nearby Amenities
The Tavern’s location means a host of amenities are within easy reach. For pre-show dining or late-night snacks, there are dozens of restaurants and cafes within a few blocks – everything from casual cafes (Odette’s, Prado for brunch) to quality eateries (Culprit Dining, Depot Oyster Bar, Cassia Indian Kitchen, etc.) a few minutes’ walk away. You’ll also find pubs and bars nearby, especially along Victoria Street and at SkyCity (e.g. Federal Diner, Sails Restaurant). After a gig the city centre is busy, so buses, taxis and Uber are widely available. Nearby hotels include the Ramada Suites and Swiss-Belsuites on Victoria Park (both within 500m) for out-of-town guests. If you arrive early, Victoria Park is just around the corner for a stroll or coffee. In short, everything you need – food, transit, even ATMs or grocery shops – is within walking distance of the Empire Tavern.
What Makes This Venue Special
Empire Tavern stands out for blending rich Kiwi pub heritage with a unique city setting. It isn’t a soulless chain bar – it’s a “heritage-listed” looking building (though not formally a listed site, its age and style are significant) that has seen generations of Aucklanders pass through. Its mix of indoor bar, covered garden courtyard and rooftop patio is rare in a downtown pub. Many visitors mention the friendly, casual vibe – it’s often described as “cozy with great vibes” and “awesome drinks” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Patrons especially love the atmosphere of community: as one TripAdvisor reviewer summarized, it’s a cozy place with “delicious pub food, friendly staff, and awesome drinks… perfect for a chill night out!” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The venue also has some legendary deals (for years the $10 steak-and-drink combo drew word-of-mouth praise) and fun traditions (weekly quiz buzz, themed parties) that keep people coming back. In short, Empire Tavern’s personality comes from its history and its people – an informal pub where offtimes “business deals, birthdays, and big nights all blur into one” (stargroup.nz ) – combined with convenient modern amenities. That mix of authentic heritage and city-bar energy is what fans say makes it special.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning a visit, keep in mind that Empire Tavern operates year-round with some seasonal changes. It’s generally open 11am–10pm Monday–Thursday, 11am–11pm on Friday, 12pm–10pm on Saturday, and closed on Sundays (stargroup.nz ) (stargroup.nz ) (double-check on holidays). The kitchen typically serves until closing. Entrance is via the main door on Victoria Street; no tickets are needed unless a specific event is sold out. The venue is listed as wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), with a step-free entry from the street and accessible restrooms. However, because it’s in an old building, some areas may have narrow passages, so you may want to arrive early to get a convenient spot. The Pub Quiz and most live events are officially 18+. Children may come for daytime lunches, but after dark expect an adult crowd – for most gigs and late nights they require ID for alcohol purchase. Dress is casual (jeans and t-shirts are fine). The Empire allows mobile device use (e.g. phones and cameras) – just remember to be respectful during performances. You cannot bring outside food or alcohol. If you want to guarantee a table (especially Fri/Sat nights), it’s best to call ahead or use their online booking; otherwise arrive early or be prepared to stand or mingle at the bar. For connectivity, the pub offers free Wi-Fi (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), and most spots have cell coverage. Lastly, watch your wallet: some bills, and raids – standard bar etiquette. In short, bring your ID, cash or card, a friendly attitude, and an appetite for Kiwi pub culture – and you’ll get the most out of a night at the Empire Tavern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Empire Tavern located?
Empire Tavern is at 137 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, on the corner of Nelson Street. This central location (near the Sky Tower and Aotea Square) is within walking distance of many buses and about a 10-minute walk from Britomart train station (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for events at Empire Tavern?
For most pub nights and casual live music, no pre-sold tickets are required – entry is generally first-come, first-served. However, for special concerts the venue may sell tickets or charge a cover. Typical covers are quite low (around $10–$15) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). If an event you want has limited capacity, you can often buy tickets online or via local event platforms ahead of time. For ordinary nights, just show up early in the evening. Reserving a table in advance is recommended for Friday/Saturday peak times (stargroup.nz ).
What kinds of events and music does the Empire Tavern host?
The Empire Tavern offers a mix of entertainment. Every Friday and Saturday they have live music and DJs (featured acts vary from cover bands to local rock or indie groups) (stargroup.nz ). On Tuesday evenings they hold a pub quiz at 7pm (stargroup.nz ). The pub also screens live sports nightly. Special events are held on occasion (for example, holiday bingo parties (stargroup.nz ) or one-off concerts like the metal show on Aug 30, 2025 (www.undertheradar.co.nz )). When no event is scheduled, it’s a casual bar environment. There is no fixed genre or lineup; check the Empire’s announcements or local event listings for details on any given night.
Is there a cover or ticket price at the door?
Most of the time there is no cover; you can enter just by walking in and buying drinks. اما during special gigs or higher-profile shows a small cover may apply. As one event listing shows, doors often charge roughly NZ$10 pre-sale or about $15 at the door (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Check each event’s notice. Regular weeknight music and quiz nights are usually free with a drink purchase.
Can I reserve a table or get assigned seating?
The Empire Tavern does not have traditional reserved seats for concerts – the main areas are mostly general admission. However, you can reserve tables for dining or group gatherings. For busy nights (especially Fridays and Saturdays) it’s wise to book a table in advance as recommended by the venue (stargroup.nz ). Otherwise seating is on a first-come basis: tables and chairs are scattered throughout the bar, garden patio, and rooftop, so early arrival secures better spots.
What is the seating and layout like inside the Empire Tavern?
The Empire has multiple interconnected spaces. Inside is a large bar area and dance/stage area (mostly standing room with some bar stools/tables) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Through the main doors is the covered Garden Bar , a patio with tables under a retractable roof (www.stargroup.nz ). Upstairs there’s a separate opened-air Rooftop Bar terrace. There is also a private Press Room lounge (with its own entrance and bathroom) that holds groups. In total, the Garden Bar can fit ~250 people (170 with full seating) (www.stargroup.nz ), the rooftop about 50 (30 seated) (www.stargroup.nz ), and the Press Room about 80/45 (www.stargroup.nz ). In other words, it’s a medium-sized venue – bigger than it looks from outside – with mixed standing and table seating.
Is Empire Tavern wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Empire Tavern is listed as wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The street-level entrance is step-free, and there is room to maneuver inside the main bar and Garden Bar areas. However, note that even though it’s accessible, some corners may be tight due to the old building’s layout. If you need any assistance, staff are usually happy to help. (The upstairs rooftop and Press Room are also accessible via ramps or lifts within the building.)
What are the venue’s hours of operation?
Typical hours are: Monday–Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday 11am–11pm, Saturday noon–10pm, and Sunday closed (stargroup.nz ) (stargroup.nz ). (Kitchen service usually ends an hour before closing.) These hours may vary during holidays or special occasions, so it’s a good idea to double-check the current schedule before planning your visit.
Is there parking available at or near Empire Tavern?
There is no free parking on-site. Nearest paid options include Wilson Parking at 156 Victoria Street West (about a block south, with casual rates starting around NZ$6.50/hr) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ), and the Victoria Park Market carpark at 210 Victoria Street West (also nearby, ~$12/hr) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Street parking is metered and limited, especially on weekends. It’s recommended to allow extra time for parking or use public transit or rideshares (Uber/Taxi drop-off is allowed directly outside on Victoria Street).
What kind of food and drink does Empire Tavern serve?
Empire Tavern offers full pub dining and bar service. On the menu you’ll find classic pub fare – burgers, pizza, fries, steak dinners, seafood platters, salads, etc. Portion sizes and prices are typical of a pub (for example, pizzas and mains run in the ~$20–$30 range (www.tripadvisor.com.au )). The bar has an extensive beer list on tap (many ales and lagers) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), plus wine, spirits and cocktails. Happy hour specials (e.g. jug deals before 7pm (www.tripadvisor.com.au )) and daily meal deals (like $10 steak nights) are common. One reviewer even noted getting a hearty steak scotch fillet and sides for NZ$10 with a drink purchase (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). In summary, it’s full bar service with a variety of food – everything from snacks to full dinners, so you can dine there or just grab a beer.
What is the dress code and age policy?
Dress is entirely casual – jeans, tees, and smart-casual wear are all fine. There is no formal dress requirement, and many patrons come in every-day attire. As for age: the Empire Tavern is a licensed bar. Children and teens are generally only welcome during daytime dining hours (with a parent) and not during late-night events. Most live music shows and evening hours are 18+ law (the venue will check ID if needed) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). If you plan to drink alcohol or attend a concert, bring valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, etc.).
Can I bring children to Empire Tavern?
Children are not banned outright, but be aware the Tavern is primarily a bar environment. In practice, families might visit for an early lunch or afternoon, but during evening hours it caters to adults (especially after 6pm NZ licensing rules). Evening events like live music nights are strictly 18+ (ID is required). If you wish to bring kids, stick to daytime hours and ensure they leave well before it gets late in the evening.
