New Zealand Herald

Reviews for The Playhouse Pub & Brasserie

by Keith E.
21st October 2012

We were attending a show, and decided to meet here and have drink and some food. Then after the show for one for the road. We received completely different levels of services.

Pre Show – We all commented how quick and prompt the food arrived, it was hot and tasty. All six of us had different choices. I chose the mushroom burger without salad, the waiter even pointed out that this was the vegetarian option and contained no burger. Portions were well sized.

Post Show – After enjoying ourselves earlier, we thought we would return for one for the road. Things were just messy, it took two staff to sort out what a Southern Comfort & L&P was. Others in our group had to explain what a Rum & Coke in a tall glass was. The staff could not understand English, and other patrons were equally frustrated too.

by Rebecca K.
14th September 2012

I go here whenever I’m attending a show nearby as it’s a place everyone knows so we can meet up and the Civic car park is close. We can grab a quick drink and head off. However: It has ZERO atmosphere with inattentive staff who prefer to stand around and chat to each other rather than do their jobs properly. I get the impression most of them are on a working holiday so have no need to make it their business to ensure patrons are looked after. Last time I was there, the bar person could barely drag herself over to ask what I wanted. The food is usually atrocious so don’t order a meal unless it’s wedges and even then don’t get your hopes up. You’d be better off waiting until the show finished and go get a microwaved pie at a mini mart. Don’t expect music to be playing either. Such a great location though with MASSES of potential, what a pity it’s such a dive. I wish someone who knew what they were doing in the hospo trade would buy the place and make it awesome. Right now it’s an embarrassment. How cool would it be to sit out in the ‘garden’ bar in summer, sip good wine, eat good food and watch the happenings in Aotea Square?!

by John R.
22nd July 2012

Called in for a meal just because never been before.The staff were really friendly and the atmosphere was good there was a large screen with rugby on which I liked but the wife wasn’t to keen on. The food was really good and at a respectable price. The owner was there at the time a guy named Dave got on really well with him and he was going around all the guests making sure all was okay.All in all a good experience would go back again .

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