Mystery bar number 65

File under: drink, nightlife, Wellington

The previous mystery bar was never going to be all that difficult, given its highly visible location and the anticipation that preceded its opening. As Deep Red identified, and as I confirmed in my rosé roundup, it was indeed the new Zarbo at Chaffers Dock. It's primarily a deli with a café attached, but it has an interesting wine list, some good beers and as confirmed last Friday, they can even make a Daiquiri with a bit of persuasion. It really rounds out the selection of drinking and dining places at Chaffers Dock, and it could give that complex the critical mass of activity that it needs to succeed.

Today's mystery bar is in a somewhat less high-profile location. It's long and narrow, stretching far back into the building, and has a variety of different spaces. The fitout, by one of Wellington's most fashionable hospitality architects, is dark and sexy, combining elegantly bare concrete with warm-toned wood and leather, with a few minimal flower arrangements to soften the look.

It's one of those places that crosses the boundaries, combining food, drink and coffee in a stylish but relaxed manner. It has long padded benches to encourage mingling, and who knows what might go on in the dark recesses of the back rooms? Overall, the vibe is European, but in a way that has become very distinctively Wellington.