gin gin

Pass through New Regent Street in the evening and you’ll notice the warm glow of a singularly worded sign. It simply says ‘gin’. Inside you’ll find over 100 varieties, but that’s only the start of this local haunt’s story.

Just like New Regent Street itself, gin gin is a colourful environment all its own. Velvety gum drop shaped stools, swirly table tops, lush indoor plants, and the glittering bottles this place is named for, make it feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of Willy Wonka’s (GIN) Factory. The treats come in the form of colourful, handcrafted drinks and a menu that goes far beyond what you’d expect at a cocktail lounge.

gin gin is cool, plain and simple. But it’s also wholly welcoming, and even a bit whimsical. There are two bars – one upstairs, and one down. Pastels are prominent, and while you can come for ‘just one’, you'd probably rather stay all night. There’s outdoor seating, live music often, and a night-time vibe that’s relaxed but fun.

The cocktails are the star at gin gin. Snag a seat at the bar, and you’ll get a glimpse of the care that goes into each one. From house G&Ts (various mixers are expertly matched with various botanicals), teapots, snack-sized martinis, house classics and seasonal cocktails—all gin—who knew there were so many ways to enjoy this juniper spirit?!

gin gin also offers flights; a selection of three gins, paired with tonics and garnishes. The knowledgeable team has created a range of flights to choose from, curated and named for the locale that the gins hail from. You’re also welcome to build your own—from Arrowtown to Coromandel to Shanghai, there’s an impressive offering of New Zealand and international gins. Not feeling gin today? The drinks menu has a Not Gin cocktail section, as well as a range of wine, beer, bubbles and non-alcoholic beverages.

gin gin’s been around since 2018. After two years on Victoria Street, this is its second iteration. While it has certainly grown up a bit, the same unique heart and personality that earned it its good name remains. Produce is locally sourced and, just like their cocktails, each dish on the food menu can stand alone. The pizzettas—miniature, hand-stretched Neapolitan-style pizzas—are topped with seasonal accoutrements and are fun-sized so you can try more than one flavour, alongside some of the other delectable plates. Again, pop in for ‘just one’ and leave feeling like you’ve had something special, or enjoy it all—the seasonal focus means there’s always something new to try here.

Put simply, gin gin's the spot whether you’re keen for an after work bevvie, a boogie, a place to host your own party, seriously good food, a night on the town, or some combination thereof.