Restaurant

The Blue Door Bar

18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 9302, New Zealand

Recommended by 38 people

Updated

Find The Blue Door Bar

18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 9302, New Zealand

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HoursMonday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About The Blue Door Bar

Hidden down an alley off Buckingham Street, this subterranean stone hideaway warms chilly nights with bespoke mixology and a roaring wood fire. Squeeze into a leather armchair beside the hearth for tailored off-menu pours, where bartenders probe your flavor quirks before shaking up unscripted concoctions. Arrowtown regulars often head here for a pre-dinner cocktail and a quick pizza slice, staying through intimate jazz sets and impromptu open mic sessions on the mini stage.

  • Open Fireplace: A cellar retreat featuring stone walls, leather armchairs, and a crackling wood hearth.
  • Bespoke Mixology: Bartenders mix customized, off-menu concoctions tuned to personal flavor preferences alongside tap beers.
  • Live Music: A snug corner stage hosting regular live jazz performances, local acoustic talent, and open mic sets.

What's On at The Blue Door Bar

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Visit The Blue Door Bar

Why Arrowtown visitors choose The Blue Door Bar for drinks and nightlife

  • Tailored Off-Menu Cocktails

    Patrons receive custom drinks crafted to individual preferences rather than being restricted to a standard list.

    he will actually make one to suit your specific taste

    Inma Caballos
  • Cosy Hearthside Setting

    The underground stone space features an authentic wood fire creating warmth and atmosphere on cold nights.

    Real wood fire crackling away and warming the room

    Real Reviews
  • Hidden Speakeasy Discovery

    Tucked away off the main thoroughfare, guests discover an unpretentious escape with a distinctive speakeasy feel.

    This bar is a gem found hidden away from the unsuspecting visitor

    John Kim
  • Attentive Personal Hospitality

    Bartenders connect directly with guests to craft personalized drinks and create a welcoming environment.

    The barman not only knows his stuff, he serves it with warmth, humour and genuine hospitality.

    Matthew Horton
  • Unrushed Evening Conversation

    The intimate fireside environment provides an easy backdrop for conversation before or after evening dining.

    The environment's perfect for good conversation over the perfect drink and with the company of the fireplace.

    Aleja Jallo
  • Intimate Live Performances

    A regular rotation of live acts and acoustic sets adds energy without overwhelming the intimate room.

    We did not expect to be in the audience for Open Mike night where we enjoyed the local talent.

    Mary Christodoulou

Beyond the menu

Distinctive touches that elevate an evening at The Blue Door Bar

  • Custom Off-Menu Drink Consultations

    Bartenders sit down directly with guests to discuss specific flavor preferences and craft custom, off-menu drinks on the spot.

  • Hearthside Wood-Burning Fireplace

    A crackling wood-burning fireplace warms the historic stone bunker space, attended directly by staff to keep the hearth roaring.

  • Intimate Live Jazz and Acoustic Sets

    Guests can catch regular live musical performances, from Sunday jazz sessions to local open mic nights.

  • Attentive Personal Bartender Hospitality

    Knowledgeable bartenders personally guide drink selections with warmth and tailored hospitality for celebratory nights out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do they have live music?

Yes, live music is a regular feature, including open mic nights, Sunday jazz sessions, and evening acoustic acts.

Can you get custom or off-menu cocktails?

Yes, the bartenders frequently create custom, off-menu drinks tailored specifically to your flavor preferences.

Is food available to order?

Food is available, focusing on bar-style bites such as pizza, finger food, or platters rather than a full dining menu.

Is there an open fireplace?

The bar features a cosy, bunker-style stone interior kept warm by a crackling real wood open fireplace.

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