The Fort Enfield

One of the most entrenched parts of New Zealand culture has to be the classic Kiwi pub. Most of them come with great stories, urban legends, pints of Speights and a ton of banter. But not all have excellent service, delicious fare and a welcoming atmosphere. Fort Enfield Tavern, however, does.

Situated just twelve kilometres from Ōamaru, this historic public house got a lot of TLC in 2018 when owners, Amber and Johnny, took it over. Their goal was to keep The Fort’s forty-year history well intact but to level up its environment and menu to create a place that all can fully enjoy. We reckon the family has well and truly achieved this.

Visit any time of the year, and you’ll find Enfield locals, bicyclists, travellers and visitors from Ōamaru all making this place their own. With bar leaners, a cosy seating nook at the front and picnic tables outside, there’s plenty of room to roam. So get a beer, a meal or both and choose a spot to hang out in.

While Fort Enfield’s taps pay homage to the region’s stalwarts, Speights and Ranfurly Draught, they also feature a few crafties. Scott’s Brewery, located in Ōamaru, is always pouring, too - modern beer nerds and traditionalists alike can get their fill here. If hoppy flavours aren’t your thing, don’t worry, The Fort’s even got a few Waitaki wines for you to try.

Rather than reinventing the wheel when it comes to pub fare, Amber and Johnny have simply given the old favourites like fish and chips what they deserve; appreciation through high-quality ingredients. Everything’s made fresh in-house, and it’s been said Johnny does the best steak in town. Served with fries, salad and your pick of garlic butter, peppercorn sauce or red wine and mushroom sauce, this is seriously good, seriously classic kai.

To learn more about The Fort’s storied past, check out the original building plans, which are framed on the front wall, flick through the local history books you’ll find scattered about or simply ask - everyone’s friendly here.