Zanzibar is a premier cocktail and gin bar situated in the heart of Dunedin on George Street. Proudly 100% Dunedin owned and operated, it has earned a reputation as the city's finest ginstitution. The bar pairs a comfortable city ambiance with a vibrant, worldly energy, creating a welcoming space designed to be a home away from home.
Boasting an exceptional shelf of over 120 gins sourced from around the globe alongside premium tonics, Zanzibar also features nine rotating craft beer taps, a carefully curated selection of New Zealand wines, and spirits tastings. To accompany drinks, the venue serves a focused lineup of bar food, sharing snacks, and pizzas.
Located along George Street, Zanzibar has firmly established itself as Dunedin's finest ginstitution. Locally owned and operated, this central establishment bridges the gap between an intimate neighbourhood lounge and a worldly specialist cocktail spot. Designed to offer a comfortable city ambiance infused with vibrant energy, it provides an inviting retreat for casual after-work drinks, relaxed weekend gatherings, or spirited tastings among friends.
From the moment you step inside, the extensive gin collection commands attention. Rather than functioning simply as a standard watering hole, Zanzibar celebrates the craft of distillation, offering visitors an approachable doorway into spirits appreciation paired with warm, attentive hospitality.
At the core of the Zanzibar experience is its remarkable collection of more than 120 gins gathered from every corner of the world. The shelves display an eclectic mix of international classics, boutique micro-distilleries, and celebrated regional producers. To complement the botanicals, the bar maintains a premium tonic selection, ensuring that each pour is matched with appropriate effervescence and aromatics.
For those keen to explore flavours in depth, Zanzibar offers structured gin flight tastings and regularly spotlights distinctive brands. Guests can sample differing distillation methods, juniper profiles, and citrus nuances side by side, guided by knowledgeable team members.
While botanical spirits take top billing, the beverage program extends well beyond the gin shelf. Beer enthusiasts will find nine rotating craft taps highlighting fresh brews, while wine lovers can explore a carefully curated list representing New Zealand's notable wine-growing regions.
The kitchen provides a focused menu of comforting bar snacks and hearty pizzas designed to complement the drink lineup. Sharing platters include shoestring oven fries served with aioli and tomato sauce, oven-baked kumara wedges, freshly popped popcorn, assorted Proper Crisps, and beef-and-cheese burritos served with salsa. Those seeking something more substantial can choose from oven-baked pizzas, including pepperoni and olive, Cajun-spiced chicken with mushroom and Turkish peppers, or a vegetarian mushroom and olive pie.