Hamilton After Dark: What to Eat, Drink & Do After 5pm

One of the latest interesting trends in the area is the rise of unlicensed dessert-style places. Instead of automatically heading to a bar, more people are heading out for bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert with sweet toppings), cake or ice cream instead.

Not sure where to start? Kori Desserts is always a good bet. Known for their Korean and Japanese-style sweets, this Ward Street dessert café offers a huge selection of icy creations that range from fresh and fruity to rich and creamy. It works especially well when you want something lighter than your usual dessert, but big enough for groups to share.

Shallow Bakery & Café on Alexandra Street is another sweet-toothed go-to: they’ve got desserts, cakes and baked goods that are always a little nostalgic. If you’re looking for something classic, Divine Dessert Lounge (also in the central city) is known for their handcrafted ice creams, waffles, milkshakes and sundaes.

Of course, we couldn’t talk about sweet things in Hamilton without mentioning Duck Island. These local legends still have their original store on Grey Street, and even after branching out into nationwide ice cream fame, to this day it’s one of the best ways to round off a night right here in Hamilton.

There’s plenty happening on stage and screen around here.

Lido Cinema is a year-round option for film lovers, especially once festival season kicks in. From the New Zealand International Film Festival to French, British, Irish and Italian programmes, there’s always a steady supply of interesting options you’re unlikely to catch elsewhere.

For bigger live performances, head to the BNZ Theatre: the local 1,300-seat cultural venue bringing theatre, music, comedy and international touring acts into the heart of town.

Clarence Street Theatre is another stalwart of the local performance scene (a proscenium arch lyric theatre, for the musical-heads), hosting everything from classic musicals and tribute shows to community productions and pretty much everything in between.

On the other hand, The Meteor is your classic blackbox theatre, championing the growth and development of the arts in Kirikiriroa with a diverse programme of shows and events in the central city.

For something a little edgier, head over to Alexandra Street, where you’ll find The Factory. Popular and pumping, this is the place to throw yourself into the crowd and enjoy a bit of sweaty, loud live music.

Another nearby hangout is Nivara, an underground retro lounge with food, drinks and all kinds of live music and entertainment.

Last Place Bar is also a local favourite, with original live acts on the calendar several nights a week, plus karaoke and other events. It’s become a reliable home for local bands and touring acts alike.

Hamilton Hotel Public Bar & Bistro is one of the newer popular spots in town. Sitting inside the BNZ Theatre building, it’s well placed for after-work drinks or some pre-show bistro-style dining.

The Riverbank Lane is another reliable choice, filled with some of the area’s best eateries. Mr Pickles is popular for its share plates and cocktails, while Banh Mi Caphe nails your classic Vietnamese freshness.

Saigon ’60s is another popular Vietnamese option in the central city, serving quick, easy street food that’s full of flavour.

Over in Hamilton East, Made Market brings together eateries, bars, retail and local producers under one roof seven days a week: the perfect place to go for a wander when you’re not sure what to eat.

Special mention goes to Reggie’s (up on the rooftop above Made), for their killer handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza with a stunning view out over the Waikato River.

If the night calls for a proper drink, Wonder Horse is the place. Around since 2012 and still one of Hamilton’s best-loved cocktail bars, they know their way around both classic cocktails and tailored creations – so you can order from the list, or tell them what you like and let them steer you somewhere good.

They say not every good night out needs to revolve around food or alcohol. Well, Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery now has their new Open Late evenings until 9pm: so visitors can explore exhibitions under the cloak of the evening.

It’s a simple idea, but a good one: more time to look, wander and see things in a different light. Plus, it’s a great night out or date idea when paired with dinner or a drink nearby.