The Welsh Dragon Bar

Whenever we’re in Wellington, we head straight for the Welsh Dragon. Mike and Joanne have created a fantastic atmosphere. Phil W. pegged it in his review. When you go in, there’s usually someone you recognize from the day or week before and the conversation picks up right where it left off. It’s like all the really nice people in Wellington decided to hang out at this place, although, this is a really friendly city to begin with. The last time we were in town, the wife and I renewed our vows here, after about 40 years I guess it was time. Mike and Joanne were so sweet. They cleared out the back room, moved the pool table and filled the room with flowers and wedding decorations. It was beautiful. We still have one of the heart shaped doilies glued to our refrigerator at home. The food was great and there were tons of snacks. There was about 25 of us back there partying all night but Ross kept those drinks coming like an assembly line.
That same night, Prince Harry was in town watching a rugby match at the Cake Tin. We were hoping he’d stop in after the match but no such luck. We thought we saw him a couple of times but it was just Mike with that silly Prince Harry mask, LOL, Hilarious. Mike’s a funny guy and knows how to keep the party going.
One day we were sitting and talking for a while when one of the customers, after hearing our accent, got up, walked over to the piano and played the Star Spangled Banner (U.S. National Anthem). Everyone in the bar stood up while we sang. How cool is that? This is a great place to sit and watch a game and make friends. It does help if you know the rules of rugby and cricket but if you don’t, there’ll be someone there that will gladly explain them.
I love the entertainment they have. Usually local talent on the piano or guitar. The Quiz Nights are a blast too. This place would do great in Long Beach. Check out the pictures on their website and you’ll get a good idea of the vibe. Have fun.

Best bar in central Wellington, only bar as far as I’m concerned (bar ivy if I’m wasted, and valhalla if a show is on). It’s just decent beer, good prices, super unpretentious atmosphere (it’s in an old concrete toilet). Added benefit of not having the pro-​actively racist sexist loser clientele of somewhere like Cambridge sports bar. The roast on Sunday is perfect too. Great place to take your dad.

If you looking for a trendy bar with tall Russian hot chicks (which incidentally I love). This is not the bar for you.
If you want a good traditional pub like pubs used to be. Where you can come in on your own and have many friends (most of them tipsy) when you leave then go no further.
Basic style but a heart of a Dragon. In winter you have a nice fire to keep you warm. Dart board to play with random strangers and pool table out back. There is a bet garden aka smoking area as well
The food is good old fashioned pub food.
The reason why I keep coming back. Is the staff are super friendly introduce you to the locals and make you feel like a local within a few minutes
Enjoy Welsh hospitality if you are not a snob you will love this place.