About Leroy’s
Leroy’s Dive Bar is a quirky American-style pub and burger joint hidden under Lambton Quay in the heart of Wellington’s CBD. Opened around 2017 by the team behind the Green Man chain , it took over the old Hideaway venue on Plimmer Steps. The pub spans roughly 500 m² and can hold on the order of 600 people . Inside you’ll find playful “dive bar” décor: old motorcycles hang from the ceiling, a half-vintage caravan is built into the seating area, and retro signs and string lights decorate the walls . These distinctive design touches – a classic carburetor tap pouring beer, a game of Plinko at the bar, and a twinkly little garden deck off the street – give Leroy’s plenty of character.
Leroy’s menu features hearty bar fare. Think big burgers (their “Big Boy” burger is a local favorite), crispy fried chicken, loaded wings, tacos and fries . The bar is well known for its fried “Firebird” chicken and generous pub classics . The food is reasonably priced (burgers typically in the mid-$ teens and up, cocktails in the low $20s according to reviews ) and the menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options . A broad selection of New Zealand craft beers and cocktails rounds out the offerings. In short, Leroy’s stands out as a beloved local nightspot for great burgers, value deals and a laid-back vibe .
Location-wise, Leroy’s sits on Plimmer Steps – a narrow historic laneway just off Lambton Quay. In fact, a bronze statue of city founder John Plimmer and his dog Fritz stand near the entrance , so the spot is steeped in Wellington lore. This “hidden alley” setting (2 Plimmer Steps) gives the venue extra charm. All told, Leroy’s matters to the local scene as a central gathering place: part garage-chic novelty, part neighborhood pub, and a link between Wellington’s heritage (Plimmer Steps) and its modern nightlife.
Events and Programming
Leroy’s is as much about its weekly events and deals as it is about food. Each day brings a special theme or promotion, as advertised on their site. For example, Monday is “2-for-1 Burger” all day, and Tuesday features a surprise “Mystery Deal,” often another meal special . Wednesday nights are reserved for trivia – a pub quiz runs from about 6:30pm – while Thursday is game night (“Spin the Wheel”) along with a $20 burger special . Fridays are celebrated with open-mic karaoke every week , so it’s common to see crowds singing along or local musicians on stage. There’s also a daily happy hour from 5–6pm with discounted drinks, and bar games like Plinko or a spinning “Beer Wheel” to keep things lively . These regularly scheduled events (plus occasional local band or DJ nights on weekends) mean there’s almost always something happening at Leroy’s – from quiz prizes to late-night sing-alongs – giving the pub a consistently upbeat, party-ready atmosphere.
Tickets and Booking
For the most part, Leroy’s operates like a standard pub: you don’t need tickets to enter or pre-book a table on normal nights. There’s no box office or online ticket seller; guests simply come in off the street, grab a drink, and enjoy the night. Entry is free, though on very busy quiz or karaoke nights it’s wise to arrive early to secure a seat. The only time a reservation is needed is when booking a private event. Leroy’s can be hired out upstairs, and their website notes that the upstairs function area “accommodates up to 200 guests” . In practice, anyone planning a party or large gathering (e.g. a big birthday or company holiday party) should contact Leroy’s in advance – they offer an “Enquire Now” event form online and space downstairs as well. Otherwise, for ongoing pub events and drinker crowds, no advance ticketing or reservation is necessary.
Seating and Layout
Inside Leroy’s, the layout is open and casual. The downstairs main bar area is a single room with the bar counter along one wall and high tables and benches scattered around. There is mixed seating – bar stools, high-top tables and a few booths – but much of the floor is open standing room (this helps squeeze in big crowds on busy nights). Downstairs you’ll also find a small dance floor or performance corner under the stage lighting. (In warmer weather a side patio area opens to Plimmer Steps, but this is relatively compact.) The upstairs section is a private mezzanine lounge that can be rented for events. Upstairs has more lounge-style seating and its own smaller bar; it’s like a separate room that overlooks the downstairs. In total, the sharedspace listing even notes ~500 m² total area with capacity for “1-600 people” , which matches Leroy’s own claim of 200 upstairs plus overflow downstairs. There’s no fixed “best seat” – many people gather around the bar itself or the booths by the walls. If you want a quieter corner, snag a table upstairs or sit near the back. (Anyway, with music and games always running, acoustics are lively everywhere. Leroy’s has a sound system sufficient for live-bands and karaoke, plus colorful disco lighting on Friday nights, so it feels more like a party hall than a quiet lounge.)
Getting There and Parking
Leroy’s is centrally located at 2 Plimmer Steps, right off Lambton Quay in Wellington . The building is under the Novotel, facing the intersection of Whitmore and Lambton. For public transport, almost any city bus that runs along Lambton Quay will drop you near Plimmer Steps. The main feed of routes from suburbs like Hutt Valley, Miramar or Karori all stop on Lambton Quay, just a minute’s walk from Leroy’s. Wellington’s main train station is about a 10-minute walk away (just down Featherston and Lambton Quay), so you can also catch a train to the station and then walk or take a connecting bus. Rideshares/taxis can drop customers off on Lambton Quay at Whitmore Street and walk a few steps into the stairwell.
If driving, on-street parking right at the door is very limited. There are metered parks along Lambton Quay but these fill up quickly and are time-restricted. A better option is the nearby Plimmer Tower parking garage (entrance at 2 Gilmer Terrace, back of Plimmer Steps). Wilson Parking runs this lot with casual rates starting from about NZ$4 per hour . (Parkopedia shows roughly $8 for two hours there.) Other city lots such as the Victoria Street Parking Centre or the left-bank sites are also within a 5-10 min walk. Just be aware that Lambton Quay parking is generally pricey. Alternatively, Wellington parking apps and metered street parking (after 6:30pm some spaces become free) can help if you plan late-evening visits.
Inside the Venue
On entering Leroy’s you’ll immediately notice the relaxed, slightly industrial vibe. Staff are friendly and approachable – this isn’t a pretentious spot, just a lively neighborhood bar. Everyone orders at the front: grab a stool or table, then go up to the counter to order food. When your meal is ready, Leroy’s uses a buzzer pager system (the blog wittily calls it the “vibrating waiter”) so you know when to collect it . Drinks are ordered and paid for at the bar, which has taps along its length – some even pour beer from an actual carburetor apparatus as theme. There is no formal table service or coat check, so people often keep belongings beside their chairs or hang jackets on hooks if available. The restrooms are down a hall from the main room (one of each gender). Unlike many modern pubs, Leroy’s decor deliberately keeps a bit of grit – expect some worn wood, concrete and vintage art, but it’s scrupulously clean. At night the music volume is upbeat but not deafening – still loud enough for dancing on Fridays, but you can hold a normal conversation. You’ll commonly see the staff running Bar games like Plinko or spinning a beer wheel on special nights, and patrons enjoying burgers or “K-Fries” (Korean-style loaded fries) under dim lighting and neon signs.
The atmosphere is casual. Dress code is simply “come as you are” (jeans and tees are fine). The crowd is a mix of young adults, professionals and students – basically anyone looking for a fun night out. Security is relaxed; on busy nights there will be a doorperson checking IDs (you must be 18+ to drink in NZ), but most evenings it’s just people coming in off the street. In short, expect a friendly, unpretentious party vibe inside, with staff ready to guide you through the food menu, taplist or drink specials.
Nearby Amenities
Leroy’s location in the CBD means there’s no shortage of nearby options. Literally outside the door you’ll find more bars and restaurants along Lambton Quay – budget grab n’go spots like deli counters or Asian takeout, as well as sit-down places. A few steps away on Whitmore or Willis streets are pubs (e.g. the old Hanover or Duke of Gloucester), coffee shops and late-night eateries. If you walk a few blocks south toward Cuba Street, you enter Wellington’s popular Cuba Quarter, packed with cafes, trendy bars and diverse restaurants (New York-style delis, Vietnamese, Mexican, casual grills, etc.). This makes Leroy’s handy for a pre-game meal or a post-bar dessert down Cuba. For hotels, the nearest are a 5–10 minute walk: the James Cook or Rydges hotels on Boulcott Street, or the Novotel above Plimmer Steps (where Leroy’s is actually located). If you’re coming from a show or sporting event at the nearby TSB Arena or St. James Theatre, Leroy’s is a convenient bar stop just a short cab ride (or a 10–15 min walk) from the entertainment venues. There are also several small convenience stores and liquor shops in the area if you need last-minute items. Finally, outside hours taxis and Uber lines usually cruise Lambton Quay, and a number of bus routes pass within one block, so it’s easy to continue after-hours transport from here.
What Makes Leroy’s Special
Leroy’s has carved out a niche that combines surprise and nostalgia. Its dive-bar aesthetic – complete with US road-trip memorabilia – is unique in Wellington, where many pubs trend modern. Riding on Ian Fleming’s Wild West imagined by Păl, the motorcycles, neon lights, and quirky games set it apart from your typical beer cellar. At the same time, Leroy’s is firmly rooted in the local scene: its Plimmer Steps address ties it to Wellington’s history (with the John Plimmer statue at its doorstep ), and the friendly “Kiwi pub” service means everyone from office workers to international visitors feels at home . The venue is famous for making every night feel special – repeated Quinn’s Pub events like trivia and karaoke can turn a midweek visit into a highlight. Musicians and students love Leroy’s for its open-mic stage and playlist of rock classics, putting it on many “best of live music bars” lists. In short, this bar matters because it throws together bold design, local culture, good food and cheap drinks in a way that keeps the crowds coming back. Many Wellingtonians now consider Leroy’s a landmark in the CBD nightlife: a place where the quirks of a dive bar and the comforts of a neighborhood pub meet under one roof, making it beloved by locals and travelers alike .
Visitor Tips and Information
Access and ID: Leroy’s is wheelchair-accessible according to its listing , and the bathrooms include an accessible stall. All patrons buying alcohol must be 18+, so always bring a valid photo ID (even if NZ residents, they often check at the door). The entry is straightforward – there’s no ticket or cover charge on normal nights, just show up and head inside. On very busy nights like quiz or karaoke, lines can form, so arriving a bit early (5–10 minutes) helps.
Food & Drink: Don’t miss the daily specials: if it’s Monday, take advantage of the 2-for-1 burger offer; on Thursday go past 5pm for the spinthewheel game and $20 burger. Happy hour is 5pm–6pm daily . Menus are counter-order, so one person can settle the bill at the till. Grab a buzzer for your food and sit anywhere; when it vibrates, head to the kitchen window to pick it up . Note that French fries often aren’t included by default – you may need to order “chips” or extra if you want them, as one reviewer pointed out . The vibe inside can get loud, so if you plan to chat, squeezing into a quieter booth or upstairs table is wise. Tipping isn’t required in NZ, but feel free to round up if you had great service.
Seating: Seating is first-come. On busy quiz nights people get all the front tables, so coming right before 6:30pm for a quiz is smart. Upstairs seating is generally reserved for private groups, so stick to downstairs on public nights. If you want to save seats for friends, you can usually do so, but avoid blocking major passageways or the aisle. Bar stools along the counter are good if you’re just ordering drinks; small tables along the walls can fit 4–6 people. In general, any spot is good for a view – bass amps, disco lights and games keep every corner animated.
Do and Don’t: It’s a casual place, so jeans/shorts and tees are fine. Don’t wear heavy coats or large bags (there’s no official cloakroom, and space is at a premium). Outside food/drink is not allowed of course. Smoking is banned indoors (by law), but there is usually a designated outdoor smoking area by the Steps entrance. Phones and cameras are fine; plenty of people snap selfies with the cool decor. If you’re bringing kids, note that after 6pm Leroy’s is officially an adult venue. Under-18’s can accompany parents before evening drinking hours, but at night it’s mostly 18+ drinkers. Finally, keep an eye on opening hours: Leroy’s is open Monday–Friday (11:30am–late) and closes to the public on Saturdays . If you see a Friday event advertised, it may run late, but remember they could also shut down early on inactive nights.
Insider Tips: Follow Leroy’s social pages for one-off events (like album launches or guest DJs) not listed on the main schedule. If planning to dine, know that food can take 15–20 minutes at busy times – the staff try to keep up, but it’s casual ordering. For a quieter experience, try coming in early evening (before 7pm) on a weekday. Late at night the scene can get rowdy and crowded. Finally, if parking on Lambton Quay, check meters and after-hours rules; some zones become free after 6pm, and street parking fills fast during workday, so plan ahead.
Where is Leroy’s located?
Leroy’s is at 2 Plimmer Steps in central Wellington, off Lambton Quay. This historic alley has a bronze statue of city founder John Plimmer and his dog, and Leroy’s entrance sits just under the Novotel hotel in the CBD .
What are Leroy’s opening hours?
Leroy’s is open Monday through Friday from about 11:30 AM until late. It does not open to the public on Saturdays (the space is reserved for private events) and is closed on Sundays .
Is there a cover charge or tickets for events at Leroy’s?
No – Leroy’s operates like a normal bar. There’s generally no cover charge or ticketing for quiz nights, karaoke or other in-house events. You just pay for whatever you order (food and drinks). The only tickets involved are self-service – you fetch a buzzer for your meal and collect your food when it’s ready . For large private parties, the upstairs can be booked out (up to ~200 people) , but that’s arranged by direct booking, not a public ticket sale.
What kind of weekly events and specials does Leroy’s have?
Leroy’s has built a weekly routine of events. For example, Mondays are 2-for-1 burger day and Tuesdays have a surprise “Mystery Deal.” On Wednesdays the pub quiz starts at 6:30pm , and Thursdays feature a “Spin the Wheel” game night along with a $20 burger special . Fridays are known for open-mic karaoke that runs all night . There’s also a daily happy hour (5–6pm) with discounted drinks and bar games like Plinko or a spinning beer wheel to enjoy . These repeating events mean every night can have something unique for patrons.
Do I need to make a reservation at Leroy’s?
For normal nights, no reservation is needed. Leroy’s is mostly walk-in. On quiz or karaoke nights you can usually just turn up (though arriving early is a good idea if it’s busy). The only time to book ahead is if you want to rent the venue for a private event. Leroy’s notes on its site that the upstairs area (capacity ~200) is available for hire – in that case you’d “Get in touch” through their website to reserve the room.
What happens if I arrive very late?
Leroy’s stays open late on weeknights (often past midnight, especially on event nights). If you arrive after peak times the atmosphere will be winding down – bartenders will still serve you, but the crowd may be smaller. The last kitchen orders are usually around 10–11pm. If you arrive very late (close to closing), there may be limited seating. It’s generally best to arrive before 10pm on busy nights to get a seat and order all you need in time. Since there’s no fixed ticketing, the only real risk of arriving late is missing your friends or the end of the event, not access.
How do I pay for food and drinks at Leroy’s?
Payment is straightforward: when you order food at the counter or drinks at the bar, you pay immediately. Leroy’s accepts common payment methods (cash, debit/credit card). For food, they’ll hand you a pager that buzzes when your order is ready (so you pay upfront and come pick up). There’s no separate tab to settle later – each order is paid in real time at the point of sale .
Is there parking available near Leroy’s?
Paid parking is available nearby. The closest and cheapest is the Wilson Parking garage at Plimmer Tower (2 Gilmer Terrace), which is just around the corner via Plimmer Steps. Casual parking there starts at about NZ$4 per hour (around $8 for two hours). On-street parking on Lambton Quay is limited to metered spaces (often in high demand), so most drivers use the Plimmer Tower or other nearby lots like the Victoria Street car park. There are also some parking apps and privately-run lots in the CBD within a short walk. If you’re arriving from out of town, this is generally the most convenient parking option.
Is Lloyd's wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. Leroy’s is listed as wheelchair accessible on its site . There is level (ramped) access from Plimmer Steps, an accessible toilet, and no major steps on the main floor. Wheelchair users can typically enter through the main door under the Novotel and navigate the bar area without difficulty. (As always, if you have any concerns, it’s a good idea to call ahead for the latest accessibility info.)
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options at Leroy’s?
Yes. The menu clearly marks vegetarian and gluten-free items . Burgers can be ordered on a lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun, and there are salads and veggie-friendly taco or wing options. The staff can also accommodate dietary requests on many dishes when possible.
Does Leroy’s allow children or have family seating?
Leroy’s is primarily an adult bar, especially in the evenings when alcohol is served prominently. Legally in New Zealand, children (under 18) can be on the premises only if accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervising adult activities before 10pm. In practice, after 6pm the crowd is almost entirely 18+. If you have kids and want dinner, an early lunch or afternoon visit (when bookable) could work, but Leroy’s has no designated family/kids area. Keep in mind the music and games might be loud, so it’s best suited for teens or older.
Can I smoke inside Leroy’s?
No. New Zealand law bans smoking (including e-cigarettes) inside bars. Leroy’s has non-smoking policies indoors. There is a small outdoor area by the Plimmer Steps entrance where people may step outside to smoke. All seating inside is smoke-free.
Is there Wi-Fi or phone charging available?
Leroy’s doesn’t advertise free Wi-Fi, and signal inside can be spotty depending on your carrier (it’s underground, after all). Most people simply use their mobile data. As for charging, there are no public charging stations; plugging in phones isn’t really an option. It’s best to go fully charged or carry a portable battery if you need one.
Is there a dress code at Leroy’s?
No formal dress code – Leroy’s is very casual. Jeans, sneakers, shorts or T-shirts are all perfectly fine. You’ll see most people dressed in relaxed “night out” attire. In short, dress for comfort and the dive-bar vibe.
Can I take photos at Leroy’s?
Yes, casual photography is generally fine. Many visitors take pictures of the fun decor (the motorcycle and caravan makes for a good selfie spot). Just be mindful of other guests’ privacy, and don’t use a distracting flash on performers or quiz teams. Staff typically won’t mind you snapping a photo of your food or drinks either.
Does Leroy’s do a coat check?
No, there is no formal coat/service counter. Space is tight, so most customers keep their jackets on the backs of chairs or hang them on wall hooks if available. On busy nights it helps to travel light or use coat racks up the stairs if the staff provides them.
