Hennessy's Irish Bar is a traditional Irish-style pub on Tutanekai Street in central Rotorua (1210 Tutanekai Street). Its website says the building was completely rebuilt in 2016 after failing an earthquake-prone building assessment. The bar states it has been awarded New Zealand's Top Guinness Bar; this is the venue's own claim.
The menu is hearty pub fare, including bangers and mash, steaks, stews, burgers and sandwiches, with starters such as soup of the day and seafood chowder, a children's menu, and desserts made on site. Sunday specials include a two-course roast. The pub has spacious booths and private tables away from the main area, and opens seven days from 11 am until late. Phone: 07 343 7901.
For groups, the website describes a separate, fully licensed function room that accommodates up to 40 people, with help available for larger groups. Catering can be buffets, platters, set menus or items from the regular menu, and the room is promoted for birthdays, family events and corporate or work gatherings. The pub also caters to tour groups. Enquiries are made through the website contact page.
Suitability: a well-established central venue with a dedicated function room, suited to team dinners, work functions and group dining in Rotorua.
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