During 2020, we featured a local bar, pub or club every week to help boost the Kiwi hospitality industry and encourage customers to get out and explore!
Here, Callum Bryden, General Manager of The Botany Commons in Auckland’s eastern suburbs, shares some insights into this modern pub and microbrewery.
How has business been going during this tough year?
Business has been booming since we moved to Alert Level 1. It is great to see people enjoying being able to go out again and meet up with other bubbles.
What have you been doing to encourage customers to come back to your local?We pride ourselves in our customer service and believe that it’s one of the main reasons customers are coming back. We have the most amazing team, they are all super-friendly and really take an interest in everyone that walks in the door. I think people like that. We’ve also brought in some new promotions, including some amazing new drinks deals on Friday and Saturday nights from 9pm when our live bands are playing.
How would you describe the atmosphere of Botany Commons?
The atmosphere is always great down here, we have our warm and cosy conservatory area that maintains more of a relaxed and chilled vibe, and then at the other end of the spectrum we have The Common Room where it’s more of an area for people having a get together with friends and family for more of a party atmosphere. There’s never a dull night in The Common Room once the Jager starts flowing!
What is your signature drink?
Our Gin Trees! We are the only bar in New Zealand to provide a tree of six gins and imperial tonics. People love them and who doesn’t want a tree of gin?
Why do you think your local stands out from the crowd?
I think what sets us apart is that we provide a place for everyone’s different needs, whether you’re looking to come in and have a nice family meal in The Conservatory, catching a game on our big screen, or dancing the night away in The Common Room in front of the live band, there’s a little something for everyone here. Not to mention we believe the service we give is a step ahead of the rest.
What are your 3 top tips for being a great bartender?
1. SMILE! A smile will go a long way.
2. Being able to have a bit of a joke and a laugh with your customers is always a plus. If you make someone feel at home in your bar, then they’ll never have a reason to drink anywhere else.
3. Having a book of cocktails stored in your head is something that is sometimes seriously underrated. If you can ask a customer for a couple of ingredients that they like and then use that to produce something that isn’t on the menu, that goes a long way with people, it also shows that you have a passion for what you do and the majority of people love to see that.
To nominate a local to be featured, email ccowan@intermedianz.co.nz or send us a message on social media @theshoutnz!
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