These are the ‘Big Three’ venues for sweet gigs.. while there are others, these ones have stood the test of time and aren’t going anywhere any time soon.

Bodega:

Bodega is a pillar in the Wellington Music Scene. Having been displaced by the bypass, it’s completed its trial by fire, it lives and keeps on trucking. Bodega has seen the big to the tiny. A good spot primarily for local acts, but you will catch the odd international. It’s got a certain ‘pubbish’ charm.. just grimey enough.

San Fransico Bath House:

Arguably most ideal venue in town for international stage bands and musicians. Over the past few years they’ve been renovating and upgrading and now tote a sound system and setup totally worthy of any self-respecting act. Not huge, but somehow feels it. SanFran fills up nicely and grants the intimacy with the minstrels that you really want from a good show.

Sandwiches:

The most respectable joint for a boogie.. you can expect the international DJs to be sniffin’ ‘round Sammies for the setup they’d want to play in. You’ll also catch a bit of jazz and various other live acts on certain nights of the week.

 These candidates take our top 3 endorsements for tastefulness, aesthetic and their professional standard of hospitality.

A. Havana:

A little bit of a secret I guess.. don’t tell the munters! Havana’s no place for idiots – take your Von Dutch and Abercrobie elsewhere, gringo! This is a joint where much of the Wellington underground play music for free – you know, the old fashioned way. Order some kai from Fidel’s and kick back for some crafty beats.

B. Good Luck:

Good Luck used to be quite cool, but now it’s only kinda cool. We’re not exactly sure what happened – but check it out. At one end – the d-floor with room to move, and at the other – comfy seating, distant enough from the speakers to be able to hear one another speak. It’s kinda cool.

C. Matterhorn:

Hailed for it’s polished wood and Frank Lloyd Wright-ish criss-crossing of class, Matterhorn is another which has earned its place at the top of Wellington’s hospo scene. Also our pick for best eats in town, Matterhorn holds its own as a distinguished bar. You’ll catch some of the most talented  musical acts, but can escape to the courtyard for a breath of fresh air.