The Library Havana Bar

An oldie but a goodie, this book-lined bar on Courtenay Place is where you chill out, drink great cocktails and feel better about the world. The booths ooze old-world charm and no matter what the Wellington weather is doing, you’ll feel cosy. Let award-winning mixologist, affable Irishman Peter Lowry, make you a Fresh Prince (cucumber gin, elderflower, and celery bitters).

These historic cottages are where Wellingtonians go for late-night cocktails, tapas and good music. The Cubanthemed bar is all about shabby chic, but there’s nothing shabby about the libations, such as the Spice Up Your Life cocktail (blood orange gin, tequila, and cinnamon). Order a plate of tempura popcorn chicken to help it go down.