The Shakespeare Hotel & Brewery
What makes your venue the Best Gastropub in New Zealand?
Welcome to The Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery, a living testament to New Zealand's rich hospitality legacy and an enduring Auckland institution at the remarkable age of 125 years.
Nestled in the heart of Auckland, The Shakespeare stands as a Kiwi icon, having opened its doors in 1898 during the reign of Queen Victoria. Over its storied history, our establishment has been a cherished part of New Zealand's cultural fabric, welcoming generations of Kiwis and tourists alike. Under seven Monarchs, 28 Prime Ministers, and the tenure of 27 Mayors of Auckland, The Shakespeare has stood as a constant, providing a warm Kiwi welcome, delectable cuisine, and unforgettable moments fueled by superb craft beers brewed right on our premises.
A Hub of Hospitality Through the Ages
For 125 years, The Shakespeare has been a beacon of warmth and hospitality, witnessing the passage of time and the evolution of Auckland's landscape. Our commitment to excellence has been unwavering, ensuring that each patron, whether local or visitor, experiences the essence of Kiwi hospitality in an environment that seamlessly merges tradition with modernity.
A Multifaceted Venue
Situated in the picturesque City of Sails, The Shakespeare offers a diverse range of experiences across its hotel rooms, restaurant, pub bar, courtyard, private function areas, and, of course, the historic brewery. The boutique hotel rooms provide a unique and intimate stay in Auckland's dynamic central business district, each room equipped with its own ensuite for a touch of modern comfort in a historic setting.
In summary, The Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery isn't just a gastropub; it's a living chronicle of New Zealand's hospitality heritage. As we celebrate 125 years, our commitment to being the best gastropub in NZ is grounded in our iconic status, unwavering dedication to quality, and the ability to offer something special to everyone who walks through our doors.
Describe the experience your customers have at your establishment – what is your food and beverage offering and why do people come back for more?
At The Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery, we offer a truly unique experience that seamlessly blends history, warmth, and the finest food and drinks in town. As a historic pub and a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike, our establishment embodies a tradition of hospitality that has been thriving for over a century.
Traditional British Pub Experience:
Situated in the heart of the city, The Shakespeare Pub provides a traditional British pub experience with a touch of Kiwi flair. Our menu is a culinary journey packed with beloved classics and thoughtfully crafted dishes curated by our talented chefs. From Shakespeare pizzas to mouth-watering gourmet burgers, rump steak, classic bangers and mash, or lighter options like fusion, Thai, and vegetarian choices, there's something for every palate.
Lunch Delights:
For lunch, patrons are treated to an array of tempting choices that may warrant an afternoon nap afterward. Whether indulging in our famous Shakespeare pizzas, gourmet burgers, succulent rump steak, or the classic bangers and mash, the options are diverse and satisfying.
Dinner Extravaganza:
In the evening, we showcase not only New Zealand's finest meats but some of the best globally. Thick, tender lamb shanks, BBQ spareribs, hearty Scotch fillet, and our renowned fish 'n' chips, taking advantage of the nearby sea’s bounty. Whatever the occasion, The Shakespeare has a food sonnet to suit every taste.
New Zealand's Oldest Microbrewery:
Adding to the allure is our onsite historic brewery, recognized as New Zealand’s Oldest Pub Microbrewery. Brewing excellence for nearly 50 years, our Brewhouse produces around 1,200 liters each brew, equivalent to 2,111 pints. The result is the freshest craft beers on tap, making The Shakespeare a haven for beer enthusiasts.
Time-Honored Craft Brews:
The Brewery at The Shakespeare continues to create stunning craft brews, solidifying its reputation as the oldest brew pub in New Zealand. The commitment to brewing excellence shines through in every sip, enticing patrons to explore our diverse selection of craft beers.
In essence, customers return to The Shakespeare for the enchanting blend of historic charm, warm service, and a culinary and brewing experience that transcends time. Our commitment to delivering the best in food and drinks ensures that every visit to The Shakespeare is not just a meal; it's a memorable journey into the heart of Kiwi hospitality.
Tell us how you showcase NZ produce / offerings? Does your menu change with the season and how is it locally influenced. How do you accommodate allergy and dietary requirements?
At The Shakespeare, we take great pride in showcasing the best of New Zealand's produce and offerings, ensuring our menu reflects the richness of Kiwi creativity and quality. Our commitment to locally sourced ingredients is evident in every dish we serve.
Our menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight iconic Kiwi flavors, featuring signature dishes such as the Kiwi Burger, NZ Lamb Shank, Classic Fish & Chips, and an array of salads that capture the essence of New Zealand's vibrant culinary scene. These offerings not only resonate with locals but also provide a memorable taste of Kiwi hospitality for our international visitors.
To emphasize our commitment to freshness and seasonality, our menu undergoes regular changes to align with the availability of locally sourced produce. This ensures that our patrons experience the best and freshest ingredients, creating a dynamic dining experience that evolves with the seasons.
Accommodating diverse dietary requirements and allergies is a priority for us. Our menu includes a range of options to cater to various preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. We understand the importance of providing inclusive dining experiences, and our chefs are trained to accommodate special dietary requests with care and precision.
Moreover, our staff is well-versed in the ingredients used in each dish, allowing them to guide patrons with allergy concerns and dietary restrictions. We encourage open communication with our guests to ensure their dining experience is not only delicious but also safe and tailored to their specific needs.
In summary, The Shakespeare is committed to showcasing New Zealand's finest produce and offerings through a locally influenced menu that changes with the seasons. Our dedication to accommodating diverse dietary requirements reflects our commitment to providing an inclusive and delightful dining experience for all.
What are your key points of difference and how have you managed to deliver them?
At The Shakespeare Pub and Brewery, our key points of difference stem from a rich history of hospitality, a prime location with stunning architecture, and an unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional experience. For over a century, we have proudly served as a Kiwi icon and an integral part of Auckland's history, creating a legacy that resonates with both locals and tourists.
Heritage and Tradition:
The Shakespeare carries forward a tradition of fine hospitality that began more than a century ago. Our historic establishment, with its stunning architecture, sets us apart, providing a unique and charming ambiance that reflects our longstanding commitment to Kiwi culture and heritage.
Tempting Food Menu:
Our tempting food menu is a cornerstone of our offering. Packed with classic favorites and special dishes crafted by our skilled chefs, we ensure there's something for every palate. The thoughtful curation of our menu reflects our dedication to providing unforgettable lunches and dinners that cater to diverse tastes.
Craft Beer Excellence:
The Shakespeare is renowned for its craft beers, brewed on-site by our experimental Head Brewer. With a commitment to beer diversity, we offer an array of fantastic beers to take patrons on a global beer journey. From our popular Shakespeare beers on tap to the option of 'beer tasting paddles,' we provide a unique and enjoyable experience for beer enthusiasts.
Brewery Tours and Tastings:
Going beyond the regular pub experience, we offer specially organized guided brewery tours and tastings. These packages cater to corporate groups, social gatherings, and individuals, allowing them to delve deeper into the artistry behind our craft beers.
Kegs on the Go:
Adding flexibility to our offerings, we provide kegs on the go for memorable functions and parties. Our bulk beer kegs, complete with a portable tap dispenser, ensure that the Shakespeare experience can be enjoyed beyond our premises. For personal takeaway, our beer range is also available in bottles and growlers, allowing patrons to savor our fresh tap beers in the comfort of their homes.
In essence, our key points of difference lie in the combination of tradition, culinary excellence, craft beer innovation, and the ability to extend the Shakespeare experience beyond our premises. As we continue to evolve, these distinctive elements remain at the forefront of our commitment to delivering a unique and memorable experience for all who visit The Shakespeare Pub and Brewery.
Tell us about your commitments to Customer Service and Host Responsibility
At The Shakespeare, our commitment to customer service and host responsibility is deeply ingrained in our legacy, spanning over a century of fine Kiwi hospitality. Since our establishment, we have carried forward a tradition of creating unforgettable memories and fostering a fun-filled atmosphere that resonates with patrons old and new.
Our dedicated team at The Shakespeare is the driving force behind our exceptional customer service. Each member is not just an employee but a custodian of our rich history, well-trained to deliver the best experience for our valued customers. Our commitment to service excellence is reflected in our staff's genuine enthusiasm and dedication to ensuring that every visit to The Shakespeare is a memorable one.
Host responsibility is a cornerstone of our operations. We recognize the importance of creating a safe and enjoyable environment for our patrons. Our staff undergoes thorough training in host responsibility, equipping them with the skills to monitor alcohol consumption responsibly, identify signs of intoxication, and intervene when necessary. We actively promote responsible drinking practices and encourage our guests to enjoy their time at The Shakespeare in a safe and controlled manner.
Best Known for:
Historical pub at 125 year
Traditional British pub experience
New Zealand’s oldest microbrewery
Craft brews in-house
Please describe your commitment to sustainability.
At The Shakespeare Pub in Auckland, sustainability is at the core of our identity, reflecting a commitment to preserving our history and protecting the environment. With a legacy spanning 125 years, we prioritize responsible business practices for the community and the planet.
Key to our sustainability is sourcing local, seasonal, and ethically produced ingredients, supporting local farmers, and reducing our carbon footprint. Our menu showcases New Zealand's best produce, offering patrons a delightful and environmentally conscious culinary experience.
Waste reduction is central to our efforts, with rigorous recycling programs diverting glass, paper, and plastics from landfills. We actively minimize single-use plastics, providing eco-friendly alternatives for patrons and staff.
Energy efficiency is prioritized through energy-efficient appliances and lighting, alongside exploring renewable energy sources. Water conservation is integral, with technologies in place to minimize waste.
Engaging with the community, we organize events promoting environmental awareness. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond internal practices, inspiring patrons and businesses to embrace eco-friendly initiatives.
The Shakespeare Pub is not just a historic landmark; it's a model of sustainable practices, proving that environmental responsibility aligns seamlessly with exceptional hospitality. As we toast to the next 125 years, our unwavering commitment ensures The Shakespeare Pub remains a steward of heritage and the environment.
Have you won any awards in the recent past? Tell us about them.
The Shakespeare Hotel & Brewery takes immense pride in its legacy and has garnered recognition over the years, including the prestigious TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award in 2020. This esteemed accolade placed us in the "Top 10% of restaurants worldwide," a testament to the exceptional experiences we offer to our patrons. While external recognition is always gratifying, our most cherished victories come from the thousands of hearts we've won over the century. The Shakespeare holds a special place in the hearts of generations of Kiwis who have enjoyed their stay, relished fresh craft beers, and savored great meals at this iconic pub. Our success is measured not only by awards but by the countless stories woven into the fabric of our establishment. The rich tapestry of experiences shared by patrons over the years reflects The Shakespeare's impact on the community and its enduring popularity.
Please describe how you create ambience.
Creating the ambience at The Shakespeare involves a thoughtful blend of heritage, hospitality, and attention to detail, ensuring that every visitor experiences a unique and memorable atmosphere.
The historical significance of our establishment serves as the foundation for the ambience. The architecture and interior design are carefully curated to preserve the charm of our 125-year-old pub. Authentic period features, such as wooden beams, antique furniture, and classic fixtures, contribute to an ambience that transports patrons to a bygone era.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. Soft, warm lighting creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the comfort of our patrons. The strategic placement of lights accentuates architectural elements and highlights the rich textures within the pub.
The choice of colours is deliberate, contributing to a harmonious and visually appealing environment. Earthy tones and deep hues create a sense of warmth, while subtle accents and artwork add character to the space. The decor is periodically refreshed to maintain a vibrant and relevant aesthetic.
