Arrow Brewing Company & Oak Bar

Stopped in here to sample some brews after checking out Arrowtown.

Atmosphere was nice. Smaller place, homey, with comfy chairs, couches, a small bar, and a few spots to sit outside. It was a showery day, so we ended up staying indoors.

Quality was mostly on the good side. We got to sample about 7 beers plus a cider. I really enjoyed their dark ale, and the lager, the others were at least average, or better.

Service was great. The brewer came out and talked to us for awhile, maybe a bit intrigued about what some Californians would think of his beer. And the guy running the bar was really friendly too. Seems to be a theme in New Zealand.

Didn't try the food, prices were pretty standard for New Zealand. I believe we paid $15 for the sampler.

Overall, worthy stop if you are in Arrowtown.

Arrow brewing is a funky little brewpub in Arrowtown, a historic village 15km from Queenstown. They brew a range of beers from your standard pilsner to Tobin's, a "cask-style" ale unfortunately served on draught. The Roaring Meg is a big, powerful brute of a beer with an imposing black colour and lots of roast flavour. On special was their IPA, an 8.5% monster served from the hand pump. There is lots of malt here which seems to dominate with a slight under-attenuated malt character drowning out the hops. The bar itself is full of rusted metal, wood and stone giving the place a sort of neo-gold rush feel. Unfortunately, the staff don't seem too keen on putting together samples or a taster of the beers which would have been nice as I have to drive. The lighting could also do with some improvement. Nonetheless, Arrow is well worth a visit if you are passing through.