Two Thumb Brewing Co. – Harbourside

For years Diamond Harbour residents have been patiently waiting for a local watering hole; a venue to catch up with their neighbours and somewhere to kick back and relax after a hard day’s work. Two Thumb Brewing Co. answered the call and in March 2024, their latest outpost Two Thumb Harbourside opened. Since then locals and day trippers alike have been flocking to enjoy some of the best brews, food and atmosphere the Banks Peninsula has to offer.

The vision for Two Thumb Harbourside is to be a gathering place and community hub, and located in the recently developed Marine Drive precinct it is perfectly positioned to do just that. Within weeks of opening, a crowd of regulars was quickly established and its location also makes it well-suited as a destination to visit. You’ll regularly find classic cars and motorcycles in the car park belonging to those who have enjoyed a drive along the bays and are seeking out sustenance. It also happens to make an excellent snack stop for walkers tackling the Coastal Cliffs tracks.

The interior of Two Thumb Harbourside is light and bright, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and there is a mix of high and low tables to accommodate the size of group you’re with. The real showpiece is the open kitchen and impressive pizza oven which provide a theatrical atmosphere, whilst also making you feel right at home. Venue manager Dan has worked hard to showcase the best the peninsula has to offer, from proudly hiring local residents to curating a wine list of which 75% is from Banks Peninsula. Even most of the cocktails feature ingredients that have been locally sourced such as the Lyttelton Distillery Company’s Peninsula Gin and Akaroa Craft Distillery’s Elephant Rock Vodka. 

One of the main drawcards at Harbourside is without a doubt the Two Thumb Brewing Co. beer, particularly among the large expat community in Diamond Harbour. The malt-forward, classic English-style ales are a big hit, with their famous Yorkshire bitter and milk stout always on tap. Best of all, Two Thumb’s creative seasonal releases are available at Harbourside to enjoy. Pairing excellently with the beer are the hand-stretched pizzas and Malaysian-inspired small plates from the kitchen. Offering up eats that are a bit different to your average pub menu and that focus on local, seasonal ingredients, we’re talking a stirfry of the day dish, Nasi Goreng and pizzas with an Asian fusion spin. Order a bunch of options for the table and everyone will leave happy and satisfied.

Whether you’re a Diamond Harbour local, are nearby in the Banks Peninsula or make the drive from further afield, make a date to visit Harbourside, it certainly delivers on the Two Thumb Brewing Co. promise of being a purveyor of good company, great times and fine ales.