POP Wellington

A Versatile Venue for Dining, Drinking, and Celebrating

POP Wellington operates as a full-service bar and restaurant offering dine-in experiences, group bookings, private event hosting, and catering, specializing in gourmet burgers through their Gorilla Burger kitchen, creative cocktails, and craft beers in a heritage setting. This multifaceted approach allows it to serve as both a casual dining destination and a sophisticated event venue.

The food menu centers around Gorilla Burger's acclaimed offerings, with standout items including the brisket burger, Philly brisket burger, and pulled pork & brisket sliders. These meticulously crafted burgers feature quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations that elevate them well beyond standard pub fare. Accompanying sides such as crispy American-style fries, available plain or with gravy and cheese, complement the burgers with satisfying simplicity.

For groups and events, party platters starting from $45 provide excellent value and variety. The kitchen demonstrates inclusivity through clearly marked vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, ensuring that dietary restrictions don't limit the POP experience.

Special promotions, including $20 burger and beer night deals, enhance accessibility and value, drawing in diners seeking quality food at competitive prices. This approach to specials helps integrate POP into regular dining routines rather than positioning it solely as a special occasion venue.

A Premium Beverage Program

The drinks selection at POP Wellington deserves special attention for its depth and creativity. The extensive cocktail menu showcases both innovative creations and perfectly executed classics, prepared by skilled bartenders who balance technical precision with artistic presentation. These cocktails form the centerpiece of the beverage program, establishing POP as a destination for discerning drinkers.

The craft beer selection highlights Wellington's vibrant brewing scene, with local producers such as Fortune Favours featured prominently alongside other quality options. This focus on local brews reflects a commitment to supporting the city's craft producers while providing guests with distinctive flavors that can't be found in mainstream venues.

The curated wine and cider list complements the food menu with selections chosen to pair harmoniously with the burger-focused offerings. This thoughtful approach to beverage pairing elevates the dining experience beyond typical bar food expectations.

The bar scene itself has become a significant draw, particularly for after-work drinks and social gatherings. The energy and atmosphere created by the combination of premium beverages, heritage setting, and vibrant crowd has established POP as a fixture in Wellington's nightlife landscape.

An Atmosphere That Balances Heritage and Contemporary Style

The physical space of POP Wellington represents one of its most distinctive features. The venue's location in the historic Henry Pollen House creates an immediate sense of place and significance, with architectural elements that speak to Wellington's history while modern design touches add energy and contemporary relevance. This balance between heritage and current style creates a unique atmosphere that distinguishes POP from more conventional bar settings.

The multi-level layout offers variety and flexibility, with three distinct floors that can accommodate different needs and moods. From intimate gathering spaces to larger areas suitable for events and functions, the venue adapts to various social scenarios while maintaining a cohesive identity.

The sunny patio provides a coveted outdoor option in Wellington's compact CBD, creating a perfect space for fair-weather socializing with street views. This outdoor area has become particularly popular during summer months and for after-work drinks when patrons can enjoy the city's energy while relaxing with premium beverages.

The overall ambiance strikes a balance between sophistication and accessibility, with stylish decor that feels aspirational yet welcoming. Neon accents and contemporary touches create Instagram-worthy visuals that have helped establish POP's distinctive aesthetic identity on social media.

Service and Operations Tailored to Urban Rhythms

Operating Wednesday through Saturday from noon until late, POP Wellington's schedule reflects an understanding of central Wellington's urban patterns. This focused approach allows the team to deliver consistent quality during peak demand periods rather than stretching resources across quieter days.

Reservations are recommended, particularly for groups and events, with an online booking system that simplifies planning. This approach to managing capacity helps ensure that the quality of experience remains high even during busy periods.

Event hosting forms a significant component of the business model, with private spaces across all three levels available for functions ranging from corporate gatherings to personal celebrations. The catering program, featuring party platters and customizable set menus, supports these events with food options designed for sharing and socializing.

The StarSocial loyalty program, offering 10% back as StarPoints for every $10 spent (redeemable at over 50 venues), rewards regular patronage and encourages repeat visits. This system acknowledges the value of customer loyalty in Wellington's competitive hospitality market.

Conclusion

For culinary tourists exploring Wellington's vibrant food and drink scene, POP offers an opportunity to experience quality local ingredients and craft beverages in a setting that showcases the city's architectural heritage. For local diners, it provides a reliable destination for after-work drinks, quality casual dining, and special celebrations in a centrally located venue with distinctive character.

The combination of Gorilla Burger's acclaimed food, creative cocktails, craft beer selection, and the unique historic setting makes POP Wellington a standout in the city's competitive hospitality landscape. Whether you're seeking a satisfying lunch, sophisticated after-work drinks, or a distinctive venue for your next event, this Willis Street establishment delivers an experience that honors Wellington's past while embracing its contemporary culinary culture.