The best summer cocktails

Albert St, $24 | Bar Albert | 13 Wyndham Street
Soaring 38 floors above the city streets, Bar Albert boasts spectacular views over Auckland's skyline. Complete with art deco inspired decor, plush velvet curtains, sumptuous seating and a striking marble bar, it's the perfect spot for a sophisticated summer cocktail. The team at Bar Albert have a cocktail menu that is sure to impress even the most discerning of cocktail enthusiasts. Our pick is the 'Albert St', made with Whisky, All Spice cordial & Angostura Bitters... need we say more?

Smoke & Sandalwood, $23 | Parasol & Swing Company | 7/204 Quay Street
Over two levels, with a rooftop overlooking the Viaduct Harbour, Parasol & Swing features a cocktail bar with a stellar drinks menu and delicious bites to match. Their 'Smoke & Sandalwood' cocktail with whiskey, scotch, sandalwood, vanilla, orange and lemon - the perfect summer tipple.

Siren, $25 | Bellini Bar | Hilton Auckland, 147 Quay Street
Bellini Bar delivers breathtaking views of the waterfront and a great selection of drinks and food. If it’s a special occasion or you are just enjoying a night out with friends, come in and relax in luxury while sipping on a few cocktails. Our pick is the 'Siren' Cocktail made with Tequila, pineapple juice, lime and blueberries - all the zesty summer flavours in one cocktail! 

Vesper Martini, $25 | Queen's Rooftop Bar | 1 Queen Street
Nothing screams summer more than a rooftop bar enjoyed alongside stunning views of the sea. Perched atop One Queen Street, Queens Rooftop and Wineshop boasts stunning 270-degree views, a seafood bar featuring the freshest kaimoana, live DJ sets and so much more. Our pick to enjoy on the sun-soaked deck is their chic 'Vesper Martini', made with the iconic Scapegrace Gin, Tito's Vodka and Lillet Blanc. Aside from being perfect for the 'gram, this sophisticated blend is the perfect pick for cocktail afficionados. 

Flaming Spice, $24 | Sunset Bar | 63 Nelson Street
If you're looking for a spot to sit back and unwind, Sunset is the perfect inner-city urban oasis to take in a sunset - and a sundowner. This summer, they're adding a little spice to your summer night out with their Flaming Spice, made with fiery ‘30 Day’ Chilli Infused Cazcabel ‘Blanco’ Tequila and then a cooling celery, cucumber, mint, pineapple and lime combo. Some like it hot!

Limoncello Margarita, $23 | Bivacco | 52 Tyler Street
Bivacco is the relaxed paradise vibes you need this summer and a prime spot to soak in twinkling evening views across the harbour. If you find yourself at this buzzing oasis in the heart of the city, give their fun take on a Margarita a go, a classic with a limoncello twist! Made from tequila, limoncello and lemon, it's a must-try!

The Brit Spritz, $19 | The Brit | 122 Quay Street 
Commanding a corner at the foot of the city centre, is The Brit, a relaxed English-style gastro-pub. For the ultimate post-work catch-up or pre-event drink, head to The Brit - their signature Brit Spritz cocktail, made with Gin, Martini Bianco, pomegranate, lime and soda is punchy, refreshing and delicious! 

Bombay Supernova Tree, $70 | The Fox | 85/87 Customs Street West
The Fox is a charming London-inspired bar where you can enjoy watching sports events live or just come in to relax with a cocktail after a long day. Their drinks menu stands out with a great selection of British ales, gin and classic cocktails. When you gather the gang this summer, we recommend you get their Bombay Supernova Tree, which includes two of each flavour of their gorgeous G&Ts: The Classic, The Grapefruit Bombay & the Bombay Bramble. Whether fresh cucumber and tonic are your pick, or maybe a zesty grapefruit or the bright and fruity raspberry bramble, it's the perfect pick for a group gathering!

Cassibile 1943, $26 | The Churchill | 396 Queen Street 
Located 20 floors up, The Churchill boasts spectacular panoramic views, nearly 200 gin styles and a specially curated, Sir Winston Churchill themed cocktail menu. Grab a table where the sun pours in and take your pick of cocktail or gin. We're eyeing up their fresh Cassibile 1943 cocktail this summer, made with grappa brandy, italicus and Vietnamese mint tea tonic - refreshing!