About Frank Bar + Eatery
Frank Bar + Eatery is a combined restaurant and nightlife venue in central Whanganui (60 Ridgway Street). Uniquely, it operates out of the city’s historic Old Post Office building (built c. 1940) , with preserved marble-carved facades. Since opening its doors in 2015, it’s become a beloved local spot for creative cocktails, warm ambiance and quality food . The owners – a family behind Whanganui’s Mint Café and “Big Orange” eateries – have modernised the interior while celebrating its heritage. During the day Frank even serves brunch (think gourmet donuts and egg dishes) before transitioning into a lively bar and nightclub in the evenings. The menu is fresh and seasonal: the kitchen offers locally–sourced share-plates and hearty mains for dinners , alongside brunch favorites in the arvo . Overall, Frank Bar + Eatery combines historic charm with a modern NZ-style eatery and entertainment venue.
Events and Programming
Frank Bar + Eatery hosts a mix of live music and DJ nights across genres. Regular programming includes local indie, acoustic or reggae bands and electronic/club DJ sets on weekends. They’ve even run an open-mic style series called “Frank Chats” featuring local songwriters (for example, a recent “Frank Chats #2” highlighted artists Jackie Ranken and Julie Greig ). Saturday nights often bring dance or club events late into the night (up to 2am). Cover charges and ticket requirements vary by event: typically no entry fee for casual nights, but $10–$20 cover for bigger shows. (Many events sell out, so checking local listings or social media in advance is recommended.)
Tickets and Booking
For most nights you can simply show up – Frank operates walk-in style. Major concert or club events may require tickets or a cover charge, usually sold through local ticketing outlets or at the door. There is no traditional box office on site, so check announcements for online sales or call ahead. Popular gigs are often announced weeks in advance; it’s wise to grab tickets early when they appear. If a night has reserved seating, tables can usually be booked by phone or on the venue’s website. Overall, booking strategies mirror those for small NZ clubs: monitor listings and arrive early for big shows, or just turn up for casual bar nights.
Seating and Layout
Frank is largely an open-plan space (about 540 m² on the ground floor ), so seating is informal. There are scattered tables and stools plus a main bar counter. Most shows are “general admission” – that is, standing around the stage – with some bar stools along the sides. The best views of performers tend to be up front near the stage or along the bar, while back corners are less ideal for sight- or sound-lines. There are no fixed theatre seats or traditional VIP boxes. Acoustically it’s lively rather than tuned (near the speakers it can be loud), which suits dancing. Overall it feels like a roomy pub/bar setup with a DJ booth or small stage up front and plenty of open floor for crowds.
Getting There and Parking
Frank Bar + Eatery is located at 60 Ridgway Street in downtown Whanganui. By car, there are roughly 20+ private parking spots behind the building plus metered street parking on Ridgway and St Hill streets. A larger public lot is also a short walk away on Taupō Quay. For public transit, note that the InterCity (national bus) stop moved to 29 Taupō Quay (outside the Whanganui Tramways Museum) . From there it’s an easy 5–7 minute walk via St Hill/Ridgway. Local Whanganui "CityLink" buses loop through the city centre (with stops on Victoria Ave and Maria Place), within a few blocks of Frank. Rideshare and taxi drop-offs are convenient on Ridgway or nearby Queen and St Hill streets.
Inside the Venue
Expect a friendly, energetic pub-bar atmosphere. On arrival the doorman may check ID if it’s busy (Fridays/Saturdays can get crowded). Inside, there’s warm modern lighting, polished wood and brick accents blending with vintage building features. The main bar offers a large cocktail menu and local craft beers on tap . The kitchen runs upstairs but delivers to your table by staff (service is casual). Bottles of wine and spirits are also available. There’s outdoor seating (a few tables facing the street) and roughly “Highball” glassware. Free Wi-Fi is usually available if you need it. Restrooms (including accessible stalls) are around the corner in the back. Sticky floor dancing is welcomed – a coat rack or cloakroom isn’t provided, but you can keep coats on chairs. In sum the interior is laid-back and social: small groups mingle by tables, while larger crowds flow around the bar and dance area.
Nearby Amenities
Frank sits in Whanganui’s central dining/nightlife strip, so there are plenty of options nearby. Directly across Ridgway is the boutique Chateau Whanganui hotel (ideal for visitors), and one block away on Taupō Quay are larger hotels like Tourist Motor Inn and Kingsgate Hotel. Foodies can pop into Mint Cafe Café & Bar (same owners) just 5 minutes’ walk down Ridgway/Madge St for a relaxed brunch or craft coffee. For pre-show dinners, Victoria Ave and Taupō Quay have cafes and gastropubs (e.g. Tupelo, Goethe’s). Several restaurants and bars are within a 2–3 block walk – from licensed restaurants to takeaway joints. If you need last-minute supplies or a drink to go afterwards, there’s a bottle shop (liquor store) a couple blocks down Taupō Quay. And if you’re staying late, note nearby rideshare/taxi ranks on Queen and Victoria, or the Taupō Quay bus stop for late-night buses.
What Makes This Venue Special
Frank Bar + Eatery is beloved for blending community spirit with character. Its location in the “old Post Office” adds instant charm – the heritage façade and marble carvings recall Whanganui’s past . Inside it’s thoroughly modern: a spacious bar, DJ booth and trendy decor. The owners’ background (having run Mint Cafe and the Big Orange) means strong hospitality; as their site notes, “creative cocktails, exceptional ambiance, and delicious food” keep locals coming back . Unusually, Frank is an all-in-one spot – a cafe by morning (hello donuts and brunch☕️) and a nightclub by midnight (dance floor and craft cocktails) . Culturally, it’s a hub for live music fans and creatives. Over the years it’s hosted touring bands (even reggae acts like House of Shem) and nurtured local talent through regular open-mic nights. All these elements – historic architecture, family ownership, day-to-night operation and quality food/drinks – combine to make Frank a standout venue in Whanganui.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible, with ramp/level entry and multiple disabled bathrooms . It has a capacity to move around comfortably (the open-floor layout helps). ID and Age: NZ law requires 18+ to buy alcohol, so carry ID. Children under 18 can visit during daylight hours but are not allowed once the bar opens (often after 6–7 pm). Dress Code: Guests dress smart-casual or “nice casual” – no tie-required, but avoid overly scruffy attire. What to Bring: Bring your ID, cash or card (they accept both, usually). Earplugs can be handy for loud shows. Arrival: On busy nights or sold-out gigs, arrive early (or secure a table reservation) to avoid queues. Rules: No outside food/drink; smoking is banned indoors by law (smokers must step outside). Coat checks aren’t offered, so keep belongings at your tables. Behavior: This is a friendly Kiwi crowd, so normal pub etiquette applies – tip your bartenders and respect staff. Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is typically available. Special Events: Watch local listings for themed nights (Karaoke, quiz, etc). Recommendations: Try saying hi to the bartenders – the cocktail staff is among the highlights, often creating off-menu drinks. Finally, keep an eye on Frank’s Facebook/Instagram or local event pages for up-to-date info on shows and any schedule changes.
What is the seating capacity of Frank Bar + Eatery?
Frank is mostly open-plan rather than fixed seating. A property listing notes roughly 539 m² of floor space on the ground level . In practice there are numerous tables and bar stools, plus standing room. The venue handles medium crowds (perhaps on the order of 100–150 people depending on layout), but exact capacity isn’t published. It’s best to assume an intimate club size rather than a large stadium.
Where is Frank Bar + Eatery located?
Frank Bar + Eatery is at 60 Ridgway Street in Whanganui’s city centre, on the corner of Ridgway and St Hill Streets. This is a few blocks from the main shops and right by the Whanganui River. The historic post office building housing Frank has a prominent facade, so it's easy to spot. The central address means it’s just a short walk from Whanganui’s downtown attractions.
Are there parking options at Frank Bar + Eatery?
Yes. The building at 60 Ridgway provides about 20+ private parking spaces behind the venue , which guests can typically use. Additionally, there’s metered street parking on Ridgway and nearby streets. A larger public car park on Taupō Quay is just a two-minute walk away. In busy times allow extra time to find a spot, but generally you won’t have to walk far.
What are the opening hours of Frank Bar + Eatery?
Typical hours (per listings) are roughly Tuesday–Thursday 7am–9pm, Friday 7am–10pm, and Saturday 9am–2am . It closes on Sunday and Monday. (These hours may vary for special events or holidays, so it’s wise to double-check before planning your visit.) Note that late-night entry is only on Friday/Saturday – make sure to arrive early on weeknights.
What types of events does Frank Bar + Eatery host?
Frank puts on a variety of music and club events. Expect local live music (folk, soul, reggae, jazz, etc.), DJ dance parties, and special “open mic” (Frank Chats) nights . Many weekend nights are DJ-led club events with dancing. The programming is eclectic – from acoustic singer-songwriter showcases to EDM sets – so it caters to diverse tastes. Check Facebook or local listings to see exactly who’s playing each week.
How can I purchase tickets for shows at Frank Bar + Eatery?
Frank has no physical box office on site. For ticketed events, look for online ticketing links (e.g. through local concert sites) or buy at the door. Smaller shows may allow on-the-day cover payment (usually around NZ$10–$20). Major gigs often appear on ticket platforms weeks in advance. If you’re just planning a bar night with no headliner, usually you can just turn up (no ticket needed) and pay cover if there is one.
Does Frank Bar + Eatery serve food, and what are the menu highlights?
Yes – Frank is a full eatery as well as a bar. The menu is seasonal and ingredient-driven . Expect NZ-style share plates and mains such as gourmet burgers, house-made pizzas, and local seafood or meat dishes, all cooked with fresh local produce . The kitchen also offers an elevated brunch menu (e.g. specialty eggs benedict, pancakes, artisan bread) during daytime hours . Pies, stews and vegetarian soups are popular too. Beyond those classics, they rotate special dishes frequently. In short: it’s hearty, tasty pub-grub made sketch with flair.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Absolutely. The menu explicitly includes standout vegetarian and vegan options . You’ll often find plant-based share plates (salads, grilled veggies, etc.) and creative vegan mains using local produce. The kitchen is accustomed to accommodating diets, so just ask your server for the latest veg/vegan specials.
Is there a dress code at Frank Bar + Eatery?
Frank is relaxed-casual throughout. Regular patrons and performers typically wear smart–casual or bar attire (jeans, nice shirts, dresses, etc.). There’s no formal dress code – in fact, many nights feel quite lively and pub-esque. For special events you might see slightly dressier outfits, but generally you won’t go wrong in everyday casual night-out wear. Just avoid beachwear or overly sloppy looks if attending an evening nightclub event.
Is Frank Bar + Eatery wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has been upgraded for accessibility. There is level (no-step) entry from the street, and interior wheelchair access. Bathrooms include multiple disabled toilets . The staff are accustomed to accommodating needs, so feel free to contact them if you have any specific requirements.
Can children or pets accompany me at Frank Bar + Eatery?
Frank is fundamentally an adult restaurant/bar. Children are generally welcome during daytime hours (brunch/lunch service), but after-evening hours it becomes a licensed bar so under–18s are not permitted (NZ liquor laws typically bar minors after 7pm). As for pets, they are not allowed inside (service animals excepted). In other words, plan it as an adult night out or a family afternoon meal.
How do I make a reservation or book a table?
Frank accepts table bookings, especially for meals. You can reserve a table by calling their number (0274 222 555) or possibly via their website. Reservations are recommended on busy nights (Friday/Sat) or if you have a large group. For live shows, you usually book tickets (if required) rather than tables. In any case, calling ahead or messaging through the venue’s official channels is the best way to ensure a spot.
Is Wi-Fi available at Frank Bar + Eatery?
Yes, Frank typically offers free Wi-Fi to guests. Like most cafes/bars, you can ask the staff for the network name and password. This isn’t heavily advertised, but many visitors note that complimentary internet access is on offer while dining or waiting for the show to start.
What is the history of the building housing Frank Bar + Eatery?
Frank Bar + Eatery occupies Whanganui’s historic Chief Post Office building. Construction started in 1939 and it opened in the early 1940s . This landmark government building features engraved marble stone on its Ridgway Street facade . Over time it fell out of postal use and has been repurposed for hospitality. The current owners preserved much of the original character, so visiting Frank is like dining in a piece of local history.
Does Frank Bar + Eatery host private events like weddings or parties?
Yes, the venue can be booked for private functions. In fact, local wedding planners recommend Frank as a reception venue (complete with catering) due to its large open space and atmosphere. You would need to contact the management to arrange a private event or buy-out. Many patrons have used the upstairs or main floor as a reserved function room.
What makes Frank Bar + Eatery unique?
Frank’s uniqueness comes from its blend of old and new. It’s in a beautifully restored post office building , yet offers hip, contemporary dining and nightlife. It runs from breakfast/brunch straight through to late-night clubbing . It’s family-owned (by the folks who started Mint Cafe) and locally loved for that community vibe. The menu is great, the cocktails are creative , and the music/events make it Whanganui’s go-to spot for a one-stop fun night out. In short, it’s a historic setting filled with modern energy and local flavour.
