Perched on the 20th floor of the Four Points by Sheraton on Queen St is a newly opened rooftop gin and champagne bar, providing breathtaking views of Auckland’s cityscape while exuding elegance and class. The Churchill, inspired by the beverage traditions of the 1920s, is offering our city a new level of sophistication, making it one of the most exciting openings this year.
From the moment you enter the bar, you are met with a light-filled, opulent space created by renowned interior designer Paul Izzard, who brings his signature touches of plush velvet and smooth curvature to the exquisitely appointed, 130 seater bar.
At the heart of the glamorous design sits the gin bar which takes centre stage with 170 different types of gin on offer. Managed by Scott O’Connor whose previous experience includes managing cocktail bars and nightclubs around London, as well as Auckland’s The Jefferson, The Churchill is guaranteed to have some of the best service and drinks in town. O’Connor has curated a 10/10/10 gin menu which features 10 gins selected from around the world, 10 mixers which go beyond the regular tonic and 10 botanicals varying from classic juniper berries to dehydrated orange and even coriander seeds. Patrons are encouraged to create their own “Dutch Courage” elixir and expand their knowledge of gin, removing restrictions of the beverage being limited to the G&T that we’re all familiar with.
If you’re wanting something light and refreshing, the Malfy Aranica Blood Orange gin, Fever-Tree Mediterranean mixer and cucumber, and mint botanicals make for a drink that you could sip on all night. For those who are feeling more adventurous, the combination of Lighthouse New Zealand gin, Fever-Tree Aromatic and rhubarb and star anise lends complex flavours that resonate with notes of sour fruitiness as well as potent black liquorice. Our favourite, however, is the mixture of Beefeater 24 gin, Fever-Tree Elderflower and basil and pomegranate botanicals, featuring flavours that take the palate from sweet to bitter and embrace everything in between. And if you find a flavour combination you love, the bar staff will note it down for your next visit.
If gin isn’t your drink of choice, the bar also has a champagne trolley, which includes Sir Winston Churchill’s favourite champagne, Pol Roger. The drinks menu also consists of an impressive wine list, beers on tap, and a range of bespoke cocktails.
To match the quality of the drinks is a carefully curated food menu by Executive Chef, Glen Rockhouse and Sous Chef, Sukhwinder Singh, which goes well beyond the regular to offer a line up of elevated bar snacks. Gin-cured pork scratchings and spiced heirloom tomato salsa sit alongside the likes of Clevedon Coast oysters, salmon tartare served with creamy avocado labneh, salted cucumber and sumac-seasoned crisps and a handpicked 55-day aged beef eye fillet tataki adorned with shiitake mushrooms, edamame, pickled daikon and soy mayo. For vegetarians, the cumin roasted cauliflower is a must, served atop a bed of beetroot hummus, fattoush salad and lemon oil — creating a nuance of aromas, textures and flavours.
Whether you’re after a relaxing drink with a view, a romantic dinner or an exclusive area in one of their mezzanines, The Churchill is sure to satisfy your needs. From the beautiful Art Deco decor, to the creative beverages to a menu of delectable dishes, this rooftop bar is well on its way to becoming one of Auckland’s most iconic spots.
Opening hours:
Wednesday — Sunday, 4pm until late
