About 103 Oriental Parade
103 Oriental Parade is the address of Coene’s Bar & Eatery , a popular waterfront restaurant and bar in Wellington’s Oriental Bay. It occupies the first floor of the historic Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club building . The bar’s name honors Lt. Commander Edgar J. Coene of the US Navy, who was stationed in Wellington during WWII . Coene’s opened in late 2017 (replacing a previous fine-dining venue), blending modern style with nautical history – even the bar stools were adapted from old US Navy chairs . With bright interiors and an open terrace over the water, the venue offers “the best view in Wellington” according to diners . It can seat roughly 85–90 guests and hosts up to about 130 people standing (full venue) . Locally it’s known for a laid-back yacht-club vibe and international share-plate menu, making it a signature dining spot on Oriental Parade.
Events and Programming
Coene’s Bar & Eatery isn’t a traditional concert hall, but it does host a range of events and specials. On most days it operates as a full-time restaurant (brunch, lunch and dinner service) . The venue occasionally features live acoustic music, DJ nights or themed parties on weekends, often coordinated by its parent Star Group. For example, Coene’s runs seasonal promotions like “Margarita Month” with $12 cocktails in February . The in-house AV system and microphone enable small presentations and speeches at private functions . In practice, most events are private bookings (weddings, corporate functions or parties) using the full space – weddings can use the waterside deck, while cocktail evenings use the lounge and bar. There is generally no cover charge for regular dining; tickets or reservations are only needed if a special ticketed event or pre-arranged function is advertised. Visitor reviews note that Coene’s sees a lively crowd on summer weekend evenings, but it remains first and foremost a restaurant/bar, not a nightly concert venue .
Tickets and Booking
Because this venue operates as a restaurant and bar, you typically do not need to purchase “tickets” like you would for a concert. To visit Coene’s you can simply walk in during opening hours, though booking a table is wise for busy times. Reservations can be made via the Star Group booking link or by phone (check their website for details). If Coene’s ever hosts a special event (like a wine dinner, themed party, or large private function), tickets might be sold in advance – but standard weekday dining is first-come. Note that peak times and weekend evenings can be busy, so it’s best to reserve early if you plan a large group. The venue does not have a box office and does not work through third-party ticketing sites for normal service, so guests usually book directly.
Seating and Layout
Coene’s is arranged as an open-plan bar/restaurant with panoramic windows and an outdoor deck. Inside, seating is a mix of tables and booth benches all oriented to enjoy water views. The standout feature is the waterfront terrace (deck) that extends out over Oriental Bay – tables here have unobstructed harbor vistas. Many diners consider these outdoor seats the “best view” spots in Wellington . The indoor seating area also has angled windows so even tables inside can see the bay. In total the dining room seats about 85–90 guests comfortably . There isn’t a numbered fixed seat map, but best seats depend on the experience: for sunset-view dining pick the deck; for quieter shelter pick an inside table by the windows. There is no formal VIP section, but the entire venue can be reserved for private events. Acoustically, new guests note that music from the bar area stays at a moderate level – the layout keeps the space lively but not overwhelmingly loud. Because it’s a casual bistro setting, there are no obstructed-view zones; however, windy or rainy days might make the outdoors deck less appealing, so some inside seats near glass are often in demand during bad weather.
Getting There and Parking
The address 103 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington 6011 is easy to find on maps . It sits at the eastern end of Lambton Harbour, just north of the Parliament/Government buildings. If driving, street parking lines Oriental Parade – these on-street spaces are metered (typically 2-hour limits during the day) . The Freyberg Beach parking lot (at Oriental Parade & Oriental Terrace) offers additional off-street parking close by, though it fills up on weekends. The Wellington City Council manages paid parking in Oriental Bay, so expect charges weekdays and weekends (evenings often free). Rideshare or taxi drop-offs work best at the entrance by Oriental Parade; just tell the driver to stop at Coene’s near Freyberg Beach. Public transit is very convenient – several bus routes stop on Oriental Parade or nearby Courtney Place. In particular, Metlink buses 14, 24, 623, AX and City loop 1 all run along Oriental Parade . The nearest major bus/train interchange is Wellington Railway Station, about a 5–10 minute bus ride away (or ~20 minute walk along the waterfront path). From the station you can catch the 14 or 24 bus and ride directly to the Oriental Bay stop near Coene’s. Unlimited “CityLink” buses (free red downtown shuttles) also connect to Oriental Parade. If coming on foot, the scenic Oriental Bay promenade connects to Te Papa (southern waterfront) in 10–15 minutes. Overall, public transit or walking are often easiest for this central location.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll enter through street level into Coene’s buzzing bar/lobby area. Staff typically greet you (at busier times you may need to sign in or show a reservation). The atmosphere is casual and friendly, with décor blending yacht-club nostalgia and modern flair (notice the US Navy ship photo and the bright orange “start line” stripe that runs across the floor marking yacht race starts ). Lighting is generally warm and moderate. There is no formal coat check; guests usually store coats at their table or on provided hooks. The menu is displayed on boards and a printed menu – it features international-inspired share plates and main dishes, and patrons love comfort items like corn fritters or pancakes (as one review notes, “corn fritters with poached eggs, avocado, crème fraîche and chutney” and “pancakes with bacon” are on the menu ). The bar offers local craft beers, New Zealand wines and creative cocktails (e.g. margaritas and rosé specials). A kids’ menu is available, making it family-friendly by day. Bar and kitchen service is table service style. There is a restroom area in the back (including an accessible toilet). The venue is well-staffed and busy but walkthroughs in reviews note efficient, friendly service throughout . Free Wi-Fi is usually offered, so checking menus or transport is easy. If you’d like to linger, the outdoor deck seating (overlooking the beach) has its own heaters and umbrellas. Photography is allowed (most people take selfies with the harbor view!). Only standard safety – no outside food or alcohol is permitted, per Wellington city rules, and id checks happen if needed for late-night drinks. Overall expect a lively, informal vibe inside, with constant harbor views.
Nearby Amenities
Coene’s handsomely faces Oriental Bay, a sandy city beach just steps from the entrance. Freyberg Beach (directly below) has picnic benches and often lifeguards on duty in summer. For pre-dinner, Oriental Parade has several cafés and bars: the iconic Queen’s Wharf Mulled Wine stand (seasonal) is nearby, and parents can hit the children’s playground at Freyberg Park while waiting. Many guests pair a Coene’s dinner with a sunset stroll around Oriental Bay or along the waterfront path. Other dining spots a block away include Wonder Lamb (Thai sharing-plates), La Bella Italia (pizza/pasta) and the Paragon Hotel pub (on Oriental Terrace). If you want post-meal drinks, Wellington’s city centre is just a 5-minute walk away: the historic Embassy Theatre and Cuba Street’s bar scene are easily reached. Hotel accommodations near 103 Oriental Parade include the Copthorne Oriental Bay (literally across the street) and modern waterfront inns. If staying in the CBD, cabs to Oriental Bay are plentiful, even after midnight (just hail a taxi at Courtenay Place and say “Freyberg Beach/Oriental Bay”). In short, the venue sits in a lively cultural precinct – there are shops, cinemas, and the Te Papa museum within about a 15-minute walk, and plenty of late-night scooters or buses on demand for getting home safely.
What Makes This Venue Special
Coene’s Bar & Eatery stands out because of its **spectacular waterfront setting and unique history**. It’s essentially a yacht club café that the community rallied around to make welcoming – the decor honors Commander Coene and celebrates the harbour . The outdoor deck literally juts over the water, so every table feels seaside – diners frequently comment on “fantastic views” of the bay . Inside, original touches like the orange race start line and vintage Navy stools connect guests to Wellington’s maritime tradition . Additionally, Coene’s was deliberately designed to be inclusive to locals (the club said it offers “a wide range of dishes at varying prices, including sharing-style plates” to show yachting isn’t elitist ). This mix of casual coastal vibe with quality food makes it unique on the Oriental Parade strip. Unlike impersonal chain venues, Coene’s has a strong local identity: it’s a common spot for family brunches, sunset cocktails, and summer live music nights. Musicians and artists appreciate the warm indoor acoustics and harbor breeze outside. Over the years it’s become one of Oriental Bay’s signature gathering places – a venue where both celebratory events (like wedding toasts on the deck) and everyday meals allow people to share food and stories against a backdrop of Victoria Wharf and the South Pacific. Simply put, the blend of history (yacht club legacy), design (harbour-facing architecture), and community spirit (friendly staff, public events) gives 103 Oriental Parade a character all its own .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is on ground level with wide doorways and one level floor, so wheelchair access is generally fine. (Ask staff if you need a ramp to the deck.) An accessible toilet is available. What to Bring: Photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol. A light jacket is wise for evenings on the deck (it can get windy on Oriental Parade). Dress Code: Smart casual is best – the bar is informal but not beach-casual (flip-flops and tank tops are okay in summer, but slightly nicer attire is appreciated for dinner). No overly bulky bags are allowed. Under 18 or not: Children are welcome during daytime. After 9pm it’s mostly 18+ patrons (as a bar), so carry ID if you look under 25. Photography: Encouraged – the sunset and city lights from the deck are iconic. Food/Drink: You can share plates – portions are generous. If visiting for brunch, order early on weekends. Common pitfalls: Don’t assume free parking – bring coins for meters or pay by App. On public holidays or events, Coene’s can sell out, so plan ahead or call to check if walk-ins are likely. Public restrooms are only inside, so customers-only policy. Connectivity: Mobile reception is good and Wi-Fi is usually offered. Events: Keep an eye on Coene’s social media or the Star Group live-entertainment page – they occasionally publish themed nights or DJ lineups. Weather Check: If planning to sit outside, check radar – Oriental Bay breeze comes up quickly. Fortunately, the indoor room has the same view windows, so you can always request a harbor-view table if it rains. Enjoy the maritime ambience and plan to arrive a bit early to fully soak in the bay setting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets or a reservation to visit 103 Oriental Parade?
For normal dining, no tickets are required – Coene’s is a walk-in restaurant/bar. You can simply go on a first-come basis during opening hours. However, it’s wise to reserve a table (via the website or phone) for busy nights or large groups. If Coene’s hosts a special ticketed event (like a wine dinner or private party), those events will announce ticket details separately.
What kind of events or entertainment happen at Coene’s Bar & Eatery?
Coene’s mainly serves as a restaurant and social venue. Occasionally it features live acoustic music or a DJ, especially in the evenings and on weekends. It also hosts community events, quiz nights or themed parties (for example, margarita specials) from time to time. Most entertainment is casual – there is no nightly concert lineup. If any ticketed event or performance is planned, the venue publicizes details in advance. Otherwise you can just come for dining and drinks.
What is the seating capacity and layout at Coene’s?
Coene’s has an open-plan dining area and deck. The restaurant seats about 85–90 people in tables and bar seats . The entire venue (including outdoor terrace) can hold roughly 120–130 people standing . There is no fixed numbered seating – tables are mix-and-match for different party sizes. The best seats for views are on the waterfront deck; inside tables nearest the large floor-to-ceiling windows also get a panorama. The layout is flexible, so you can request a specific area (indoors vs outside) when booking.
What are the parking options and costs at Oriental Parade?
Street parking is available along Oriental Parade, but it’s metered (typically 2-hour limit during the day) . Rates follow Wellington City Council pricing (around $4–$6 per hour) and apply 7 days a week, so bring coins or a pay-by-phone card. The nearby Freyberg Beach car park has more spaces but also requires payment. On-street parking is free in the late evening (after about 6pm on weekdays, all day Sunday) when meters are off, but always check signs. Rideshare drop-offs are easy – just ask the driver to stop at Freyberg Beach near Coene’s. There is no private parking lot for restaurant customers.
How can I get to Coene’s Bar by public transport?
Multiple bus routes serve Oriental Parade. Metlink bus numbers 14, 24, 623, AX and City Loop 1 all stop near Oriental Bay . For example, catch bus 24 from Wellington Railway Station or central Wellington straight to the Oriental Parade stop at Oriental Bay. The free “CityLink” bus (route 1) also loops through the area. If arriving by train, get off at Wellington station and transfer to one of those buses. Victoria Shuttle (Circle line) doesn’t reach Oriental Bay. In summer, the Oriental Bay beach is a short walk from Courtenay Place by following the waterfront promenade east – about 10 minutes’ walk.
Is Coene’s Bar & Eatery wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has ground-level entry (no steps) to the main dining area and deck. Paths to tables are wide enough for wheelchairs. An accessible restroom is available. If isolating entrances or ramps are needed (for example, up to the deck), staff are very helpful and can assist. The space is generally flat once inside, making it navigable for wheelchairs and strollers. Still, ahead-of-time notice can help them prepare any extra assistance.
Are children and pets allowed at the venue?
Children are welcome at Coene’s during daytime hours – the menu has kids-friendly options. Highchairs are available and families often come for brunch or lunch. After around 9pm it shifts to a more adult bar atmosphere, so it’s advisable to bring kids earlier in the evening. As for pets, only service animals are allowed inside (by law). Some diners do bring well-behaved dogs onto the outdoor deck, especially earlier in the day, but it’s best to call ahead if you wish to bring a pet.
What is the dress code at Coene’s?
The dress code is casual smart. During the day casual or summer beachwear is fine (shorts, t-shirts, sandals). In the evening people often dress up a bit – think smart casual (no need for a suit, but clean clothes, shirts, nicer dresses or shoes). It’s not necessary to overdress since the atmosphere is relaxed, but swimwear is not appropriate (you can’t enter in just swim trunks). Overall, business casual or weekend casual will match the vibe.
Are there any item restrictions or house rules?
Coene’s follows normal restaurant rules. Outside food and alcoholic drinks are not allowed. Large bags or backpacks might be inspected for safety (common in many bars). Smoking is not permitted indoors (New Zealand law bans indoor smoking) – smokers should step outside, and the deck is a common spot to smoke. If attending a private event you might have an entry check-with staff, but for dining, simply show up ready to order. Be mindful that noise levels should stay reasonable – it’s a social dining spot, not a nightclub.
Is Wi-Fi available inside Coene’s?
Yes, Coene’s offers free Wi-Fi for customers. The signal is generally good throughout the indoor dining area and sometimes reaches the deck. You may need to ask staff for the network name and password when you arrive.
What are Coene’s Bar hours and do they change seasonally?
According to the official site, Coene’s is open Monday–Friday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and on weekends from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM . It closes late with kitchen service typically ending at 9:00 PM. These hours are fairly consistent year-round. On special holidays or event days they may open later (e.g. for New Year’s), but generally no seasonal hour changes occur beyond these stated times.
What is the typical price range for food and drinks?
Coene’s is moderately priced. Starters and share plates range roughly NZ$15–$25, and mains are around NZ$20–$30. Cocktails and glasses of wine start at NZ$10–$15. For example, during “Margarita Month” cocktails were around $12 each . Overall you can expect to spend about $40–$60 person for a meal with drinks, making it mid-range in Wellington terms. The menu offers both casual snacks and more substantial meals to suit different budgets.
Is Coene’s suitable for hosting events or gatherings?
Yes. Coene’s often hosts private events (weddings, parties, corporate functions). You can book the entire venue – the website notes it can accommodate up to 130 cocktail guests or 85 seated as a full-venue hire . There’s a restaurant area (up to 50 standing/40 seated) plus the terrace. The in-house AV system, microphone and flexible layout make it good for speeches or presentations. To plan an event, contact the venue’s functions team; they can arrange food packages and tailor the space. For casual gatherings without hire fees, groups can reserve large tables in usual hours (no special permit needed). The rooftop deck especially is popular for receptions.
Why is 103 Oriental Parade considered historically significant?
The building at 103 Oriental Parade is the Wellington Yacht Club’s original clubhouse. Its historical significance comes from World War II connections and architecture. Coene’s commemorates Lt. Commander Coene, who led US naval operations here in the 1940s . Even features like the sailing race start-line painted on the floor reflect that heritage . Though the dining area is new, the venue is part of an older waterfront structure, showing Wellington’s maritime history. It’s a place where local culture (yachting club) and modern leisure (social dining) meet. Many visitors value this mix of heritage and hospitality when visiting.
What COVID or weather policies does the venue have?
While pandemic rules have eased, Coene’s follows Wellington health guidelines. In practice, this means you should book ahead (space may be limited if there are any ongoing restrictions). The kitchen and drink service operate normally, but the outdoor deck is open-air – in bad weather the deck might close or seating moved indoors. If you have concerns (like needing extra spacing), let the staff know when booking. Always check the venue’s home announcement for any special COVID protocols or dress warmly for the deck in winter.
