About TomTom Bar & Eatery
TomTom Bar & Eatery was a lively gastropub-style venue in Freemans Bay, Auckland, housed in the heritage Victoria Park Market building. Opened in the 2010s, it became known for its expansive layout and social atmosphere . One standout feature was “Auckland’s largest rooftop deck” overlooking Victoria Park and the Sky Tower . The décor blended old-world charm (refurbished market halls and exposed beams) with modern bar fittings. TomTom offered a diverse menu drawing on European, Mediterranean and Mexican influences alongside classic pub fare (surf’n’turf, burgers, ribs and share plates) . Signature cocktails and a wide range of local and international beers and whiskies added to the appeal . Friendly, efficient service and spacious balconies made it popular for both small gatherings and large groups . The venue could hold roughly 500 people in total (with about 150 in each of its indoor dining area, marquee section, and open deck) . *(Note: As of late 2023 TomTom has been listed as “Permanently Closed” by local guides . Above information is retained for historical and practical context.)*
Events and Programming
TomTom Bar & Eatery regularly hosted a mix of casual dining and entertainment. Weekend nights often featured live DJs spinning dance music to a young crowd, and there were themed “dance nights” highlighting genres or cultures (for example Latin/Reggaeton, 80s/90s retro, etc.) . On occasion local bands performed live on the rooftop or main floor; guests have noted “ducats when their band is playing” for a lively evening . Brunch hours were also animated — the bar was known for a popular bottomless-brunch menu on weekends, often with live music or DJs to boost the daytime vibe . In its events listing, TomTom offered full private-hire packages with an experienced event team, function menus, AV equipment and even a DJ and projector . (For example, one wedding or engagement party report praised the “incredibly helpful” staff, dedicated bar setup, and great outdoor ambiance during a birthday event at the venue .)
While standard dine-in was freely accessible, special events could carry an admission or cover charge. Past listings (via ticketing sites) show occasional ticketed parties, especially holiday events, though the bar’s own promotions often offered free or door-cover entry for casual nights. When events were ticketed, sales were handled by local NZ event platforms or on-site entry. In practice, most guests just arrived and paid cover only if the night’s program called for it. Regular event promotion came through social media and word-of-mouth rather than a formal box office. TomTom also accommodated private bookings: groups looking to party or celebrate (birthdays, corporate functions, etc.) could hire space in advance, and last-minute large parties were often seated warmly if space allowed.
Tickets and Booking
For most nights TomTom Bar & Eatery operated like a pub – no tickets were needed and entry was free (aside from any cover charge for weekend club nights). Walk-ins were welcome, and guests simply ordered food and drinks at the bar or waited staff. The only time tickets might apply was for special events (DJ guest appearances, themed parties, etc.). In such cases, tickets would typically appear on New Zealand ticketing sites or on the venue’s social media. However, by 2023 there were few publicized events and TomTom’s website was not active, so walk-ins remained the norm.
Table bookings were possible but not usually required for casual dining on weekdays. When expecting a large group dinner or holiday crowds, calling ahead was recommended. The main booking channel was by phone (TomTom’s listed number was 09 377 5737 ). There was no dedicated box office or email booking system reported. Popular weekends could fill up with guests early, so arriving before peak hours (especially on Fridays/Saturdays) helped secure a table. If a high-profile event was announced, organizers often offered early-bird tickets or advance tables via common NZ platforms (e.g. Eventfinda/iTicket), but details were handled like any nightclub booking rather than through TomTom’s own website.
Seating and Layout
The venue had a flexible mix of seating and standing room across its two floors. Inside, the main dining area and bar held tables and high stools in a mix of group and couples seating. Outdoors was the highlight – a two-tiered rooftop deck overlooking Victoria Park. The upper deck included a semi-covered marquee section (with seating and bar service) and an open-air lounge area with bench seating and tiles underfoot. A small function-area balcony also hugged one corner of the roof for private groups. In total, the outdoor deck could seat roughly 150 people, complementing the indoor seating of a similar size .
For best views, the rooftop deck was unbeatable – it offered far-reaching city vistas and direct sightlines of the Sky Tower . Inside, tables by the front glass got the natural light; those near the back bar were closer to the DJ booth on party nights. Because the space was open-plan, all seats had a fair view of both dining and dance areas, but the far corners (under the awning or behind support beams) were slightly more isolated. Guests who preferred to avoid loud music often chose street-level tables or leaned on the deck’s balcony railing. The venue was mostly general admission, with no fixed reserved blocks except for locked-off private hires. On busy nights, arriving early meant more seat choices. Note that during live events the roof deck could get crowded and lively – finding a quiet table away from the main speakers was advisable for sensitive ears.
Getting There and Parking
TomTom Bar & Eatery was centrally located at Victoria Park Market, 27 Drake Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland . This spot is on the western edge of the CBD, near the corner of Victoria Street West and Drake Street. For cars, the Victoria Park Market multi-storey parking provides the most convenient spot (entry/exit on Victoria Street West or Drake Street ). Rates were moderate – roughly NZ$12 for the first hour and about $6 for each additional half hour if paying by app (ParkMate), or ~$8 in the machine . A 12-hour day rate was about $35. Because street parking in Freemans Bay is very limited and often metered, most visitors used the market car park or nearby paid lots. On busy evenings the lot could fill up, so some guests preferred alternative transport.
On public transport, TomTom was very accessible. Several bus routes run along Victoria Street and nearby Karangahape Road. In particular, buses 106, 22N (Inner Link), 24R, and the late-night NX2 stop right at Victoria Park Market . These connect from most parts of central Auckland and suburbs. The nearest train station is Britomart (on key Eastern/Southern/Western lines) which is under 1 km away – about a 10–12 minute walk through the Viaduct area. Ferry riders can disembark at Downtown Auckland (Pier 12) or Devonport and then catch a quick bus or walk south to reach Drake Street. Taxis and rideshare cars can drop passengers at the corner of Drake Street and Victoria Park West, right in front of the main entrance. For nighttime departures, city buses and the late-night Link services run past the area until midnight or later; otherwise taxis/Uber are the norm after hours.
Inside the Venue
Entering TomTom, guests would step into a spacious open-plan venue. There was usually a host station or doorway where staff greeted patrons (especially on busy nights), but often it was see-your-own-seat or wait-to-be-seated on quiet nights. Security was generally minimal – standard practice was that any minor ID check could happen at peak times (18+ to drink, NZ law). The atmosphere inside was friendly and bustling. The large wooden bar sat by the entrance, fully stocked with spirits, local beers and wine. A lounge area with couches and coffee tables provided a casual pre-dinner spot, while dining tables lined the floor. Upstairs, a second bar on the roof deck served as the focal point for cocktails, and even had a dedicated outdoor tap system during events . Restrooms were located on the ground floor inside (and likely one facility upstairs), and both were well signposted.
The menu covered pub-style share plates and mains (see FAQ). Drinks ranged from craft beers on tap to a broad wine list and many signature cocktails – staff were known to recommend off-menu creations if asked. The rooftop area was equipped with heaters and a retractable canopy in places, so it could be used in moderate weather. For connectivity, free WiFi was available (guests often noted it, especially during events) . The air-conditioning inside and outdoor fans on the deck kept the air comfortable year-round. Coat hangers were available by the bathrooms, but TomTom did not advertise a formal coat-check service – most people kept coats on chairs or shrugged them as needed. There was no merch counter or ATM inside, so carry small cash or use cards at tables.
Food arrivals could be paced after ordering at the bar or with staff. During busy times (weekends or when large parties ate), service was generally friendly though sometimes slow – reviewers mention staff doing their best under pressure. The kitchen served until closing so late diners were not turned away 10 pm. Guests noted that downstairs could get quite loud once the DJ started, whereas the upstairs deck allowed conversation even with music playing. Notably, the staff often went “above and beyond” for guests; for example, one party accidentally left gifts behind, and the team kept them safe and returned them – even when the bar was closed for a holiday . Overall, the venue’s internal vibe was one of casual fun – a place to relax for drinks or get the party started with friends.
Nearby Amenities
Right below TomTom is the Victoria Park Market itself, a hub of eateries and shops. For pre-show dining or a casual drink before entering TomTom, nearby options included the Italian eatery La Zeppa and the Mexican-label restaurant Atico Cocina (both in the same market precinct) . A short walk leads to a wider choice: on Victoria Street alone there are cafés like Four Shells (coffee and brunch), the popular Dice & Fork bar-grocery hybrid, and Four Shells’ upstairs taproom. To the west on Ponsonby Road (about 500m away) are numerous bar and dining spots – locals recommend Portland Public House on Ponsonby (craft beer and pizzas) or Little Easy. The SkyCity area and Viaduct Harbour (10 minutes’ walk east) offer many high-end restaurants, nightlife bars, and the Star Casino complex.
For drinks, craft beer fans could visit the Hop Garden (nearby), while wine bars like ChimChooRee or Akarua are 10–15 minutes by taxi. If staying overnight, there are several hotels in the CBD within easy reach. Sofitel, Cordis (Novotel), Grand Mercure, and Ibis on Queen Street are well-known chain options (all under 2 km away). In nearby Freemans Bay/Grey Lynn one finds boutique lodgings like Hotel Fitzroy or local B&B’s, but the city centre is more convenient for theatre and events. An early arrival (30–45 minutes before dinner or showtime) is wise: it allows time to find a seat in TomTom or grab a quick appie next door, as tables can fill up later in the evening. After late shows, the area has 24-hour cafés (just in case) and a taxi stand on Victoria Street. Evening buses (especially NX1/NX2) run until 2am, and Uber/Lyft are very active in this part of town.
What Makes This Venue Special
TomTom’s identity was defined by its huge rooftop deck and vibrant atmosphere. Few other city-centre bars offered a deck of that size, so it became a draw for those wanting to catch fresh air and views while partying . The vantage point put Auckland’s urban scenery into perspective: drinkers could enjoy skyline views from the market roof that many downtown venues lacked. Architecturally, TomTom repurposed a historic brick market building – original wooden floors and beams were complemented by up-to-date furnishings . This blend of old and new appealed to Auckland’s appreciation for heritage. Culturally, it carved out a niche as both a dinner spot and a nightlife hub. Patrons mentioned legendary nights of live music or dance parties that felt “like a mini music festival in the city.” The loyal mix of locals and visitors loved the place; one guest said they would “never travel to Auckland without this spot” for its “superb service and unique ambiance” . In short, TomTom was special for bringing together good food, friendly service, and a one-of-a-kind outdoor venue right in the heart of the city.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The ground floor is level and accessible, and the doorways are wide. However, the main attraction – the rooftop deck – is only reachable by stairs (there was no public elevator), so mobility-impaired guests have limited access to the upper area. If wheelchair access is needed, it’s best to arrive early and confirm available seating at ground level.
What to Bring: A valid photo ID or passport is required for anyone intending to drink alcohol (NZ law requires ID checks, typically enforced after 8pm). There is no formal luggage or coat check – carry smaller items or jackets on chairs. Cameras and phones are fine for casual photos, but some performances may prefer no flash photography. Since the venue is partly open-air, bring a light jacket or shawl for cool evenings.
Age & Dress Code: TomTom was casual – no formal attire needed, but smart casual was typical. T-shirts, jeans, and sneakers (or nicer) were common; there was no strict dress code. On weekend nights or special events, some guests dressed up a bit more. Under-new legislation, the bar enforced an 18+ drinking age indoors after dark, so adults should carry ID. Children were generally allowed during daytime hours (especially as the menu and atmosphere are family-friendly until evening), but after 8pm most patrons were 18+ accompanied or otherwise.
Do’s and Don’ts: Outside food and drinks were not permitted inside. (Water is fine, but no outside alcohol – by license you must buy drinks on-site.) If you’re sensitive to loud music, seating near the back or outside is quieter. Tip generously if you enjoy the service – staff were noted for their friendliness. Feel free to ask bartenders for house cocktail recommendations. Check weather if planning a rooftop visit: in heavy rain or wind the top deck might be closed, in which case the roomy indoor area handles all guests.
Final Advice: Aim to arrive a bit early (about 30 minutes before peak) on busy nights to grab a good spot. Be respectful of space – the venue could get packed, so don’t block pathways. Leave valuables safely (one group even had their forgotten gifts returned by the bar staff! ). Enjoy the lively vibe and remember this is a place to unwind; plan your transport home before the last hour. For any special accommodations (dietary needs, event setup), contacting the venue in advance via phone was helpful when it was open. Overall, both first-timers and regulars found TomTom to be friendly, fun, and a highlight of the local scene .
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a ticket to enter TomTom Bar & Eatery?
TomTom was primarily a bar and restaurant, so most evenings were open-access – no ticket was required for entry. Guests could simply walk in and purchase food or drink. Only special events (like big DJ nights or private parties) used tickets or cover charges. For those rare ticketed events, details (pricing, sales info) were usually posted on local NZ event websites or the venue’s social media.
How do I get to TomTom Bar & Eatery by public transport?
TomTom was very accessible by public transit. Buses 106, 22N (Inner Link), 24R, and the late-night NX2 all stop right outside Victoria Park Market near Drake Street . If taking the train, alight at Britomart Station (town centre) and walk west along Albert or Victoria Street – it’s only about a 10-minute stroll. Ferries arriving at the downtown terminal (by Quay Street) will also put you within walking distance, or a short bus ride if you prefer. In busy evenings there are frequent buses and taxi ranks along nearby Victoria Street.
Is there parking available at TomTom Bar & Eatery?
Yes. The Victoria Park Market multi-storey car park (entry off Victoria Street West or Drake Street) served TomTom patrons . Casual rates were about NZ$12 for the first hour and ~$6 per half hour thereafter using the ParkMate app (or $15/$8 with the pay machine) . A full day (12-hour) rate was roughly $35. Note that street parking in the area is very limited and mostly metered. So for driving in, the Market car park or nearby paid lots are recommended. At night some guests also used nearby unmetered side streets after 9pm, but this was not guaranteed free.
Can I use rideshare or taxis to get to TomTom?
Absolutely. Rideshare services like Uber or local taxis can drop you right at the door. The best drop-off point is on Drake Street at the corner of Victoria Park West (in front of TomTom’s market entrance). It’s a busy one-way street, so drivers usually let passengers out near that corner. This is also convenient for pickup if you need a ride home. Rideshare prices are generally similar to other inner-city trips in Auckland, though traffic at peak hours can add a few minutes.
How do I reserve a table at TomTom Bar & Eatery?
TomTom accepted reservations by phone. You could ring the venue’s number (09 377 5737 ) to book a table, especially for large groups or weekends. There was no online booking system. For regular dining or small parties on weekdays, reservations weren’t usually necessary – walk-ins were fine. However on busy nights or holidays, it was wise to call ahead. If a big event was happening, customers often reserved weeks in advance. Parties larger than about 10 people could also arrange private hire (exclusive use of parts of the bar). Note that even if you reserve, timely arrival helps secure your table, as TomTom did strictly hold booked spots for only a short grace period.
What is the capacity of TomTom Bar & Eatery?
The overall capacity was about 500 people . This includes indoor dining areas and the roof deck. Specifically, each of the three main sections (covered marquee, open deck, and indoor dining) could seat roughly 150 people . On the busiest nights, nearly 500 patrons could comfortably spread throughout the venue. For private events, the venue did offer full exclusive hire for up to that number. In regular operation, max occupancy was governed by fire regulations, so even though 500 is the theoretical cap, on any given night staff might limit entry once the space felt too full.
Is TomTom Bar & Eatery wheelchair accessible?
The ground-floor area was wheelchair-accessible, as the venue is on one level at street entry. However, the main attraction – the rooftop deck – was only reachable by stairs, so it was not wheelchair-friendly. Unfortunately, there was no public elevator to the upper levels. Mobility-impaired guests were still welcome and could sit in the indoor section or the small ground-floor patio. If accessible facilities (like bathrooms) were needed, those existed on the entry level. It was best for anyone with mobility needs to plan to stay downstairs, and if in doubt they could call ahead to confirm access arrangements.
What days and hours is TomTom Bar & Eatery open?
Typical opening hours (when it was operating) were Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM until 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM . It was closed on Mondays . The kitchen generally stopped taking new meal orders an hour before closing, but the bar stayed open until closing time. During late-night events the venue sometimes extended its hours (e.g. closing at midnight). Always check ahead if planning an early visit on Sundays, since the later open time means it’s effectively closed in the morning. Likewise, Mondays were always a rest day.
What type of cuisine and dishes does TomTom serve?
TomTom’s menu was very diverse. It drew on European and Mediterranean flavors, with a Mexican twist in places . Appetizer and share plates included things like dips & breads, nachos, crispy polenta, kebabs and sliders. Mains ranged from grilled meats and seafood to burgers. For example, their Angus beef burger was $22 NZD, and premium dishes like 250g angus sirloin or lamb shanks ran in the $30–35 range . They also had weekly specials in the kitchen and a bottomless Sunday brunch menu (brunch dishes plus drink packages). Vegetarian diners were well catered for, with a 3-prep tasting platter and other veg/vegan options on the menu . In short, you could expect hearty pub favourites and international-inspired dishes, all presented in generous portions.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options on the menu?
Yes. TomTom offered a dedicated vegetarian tasting platter and several meat-free dishes . Vegetarian and vegan options were clearly marked. For example, the vegetarian tasting platter (about NZ$43) included grilled vegetables, polenta sticks, dips and breads . Many salads and sides were meat-free, and the kitchen could usually modify certain dishes on request. The staff confirmed that they had a variety of vegetarian/vegan items to accommodate different dietary preferences . Customers with allergies or strict diets were advised to mention it when ordering and the kitchen would advise suitable choices.
Is there a dress code at TomTom Bar & Eatery?
The dress code was smart-casual. There was no strict uniform requirement, and guests usually dressed for comfort or a night out. Casual attire (jeans, T-shirts, dresses, etc.) was perfectly acceptable. On club nights and weekends some people chose to dress a bit nicer (e.g. skirts, collared shirts), but there was no official enforcement of formal wear. In rainy or windy weather, sensible shoes and a jacket were recommended, since part of the venue is outdoors. In short: dress nicely enough for an upscale pub, but comfort was key. Athletic wear, sports shoes, or overly beachy outfits were generally avoided by patrons, but were not explicitly banned.
Can I bring pets or outside food and drinks?
Outside food and alcohol were not allowed inside. By NZ law the venue could only serve liquor and attendees needed to purchase drinks on-site. Bringing a small snack (like a homemade sandwich) would likely be frowned upon. Water bottles were fine. Pets weren’t permitted in the bar area. (Service animals, such as guide dogs, were allowed by law, but otherwise no dogs/cats inside.) Smoking was not allowed indoors; there was a designated smoking area on the outdoor deck. In general, just bring yourself and your ID, and everything needed (drinks, food) could be obtained at the venue.
Is WiFi available at TomTom Bar & Eatery?
Yes, TomTom offered free customer WiFi. The network was typically open to patrons (password posted or staff could give it). Guests at larger bookings often mentioned using the WiFi for work or sharing photos of the view. The signal extended throughout the ground floor and into the covered part of the roof deck. As with all public WiFi, performance was faster when fewer people were online. In any case, mobile reception in the city center is also excellent (4G/5G), so most phones worked fine if needed.
Does TomTom Bar & Eatery provide coat check or storage?
No formal coat-check service was advertised at TomTom. Guests usually left coats and belongings at their table. There were hangers near the restrooms for jackets, or staff might help hold a guest’s coat behind the bar during peak hours if asked. Personal items could also be stowed under chairs or on empty seats. For large group events, an event coordinator could help arrange storage of gifts or items (as happened with a lost engagement gift box) . Essentially, treat the place as you would a casual pub – keep valuables with you, but jackets could safely be draped on a nearby chair or hanger.
What is the approximate price range for food and drinks?
TomTom’s menu was mid-range for an upscale pub. Small plates and appetizers were typically NZ$8–17 (for example, fries $8, sliders ~$14 each). Larger shared platters or special items could be $30–43 (the tasting platters and brunch packages) . Mains like burgers and grills were around $20–25 (the Angus beef burger was $22 ) and premium steaks or lamb shanks were $30–35 . Cocktails were roughly $15–20, wine by the glass maybe $8–12, and domestic beers about $8–10. In short, expect to spend on the higher end of pub pricing – a full meal with drinks for two might run NZ$80–120 total. Happy hour specials (often run on weekdays) could lower drink costs, but no fixed discount was guaranteed.
