The Backbencher Pub

A very interesting pub, catering to the political folk that work around it and those that just want to pop in for a drink and a bite to eat. There is a history and take a walk around seeing the caricatures on display will definitely put a smile on your face. The citizens will understand. Well worth it.

A cool spot to explore and have a cuppa in the capital especially if you are around the beehive, just walk cross the street. Fun to look at the puppets representing the Government figures updated from time to time. The food is generous portion.

Palmer cooler was 95% wine with a strawbery fragrance ... okay but could've been a bit sweeter. Scotch fillet was nice and I normally like pate, but this dish doesn't need it. I doggy bagged my loaded fries entree because they came at the same time as the main... I prioritized the main and took the fries home to reheat later. Staff were very accommodating.

Directly opposite Parliament, funny caricature statues, yummy food and nice staff.Food: 5/5

First time in here in a very long time. Good range of drinks. The menu is appropriate, servings were well presented and appropriate size. Staff were very efficient. Puppets of politicans line the walls providing an amazing backdrop.

A group of us went there before Ed Sheeran concert. We decided to order platters to save time. The platters arrived on time and the portions were very generous. Staff were nice. Definitely will go back again.Food: 5/5

Dish I got was disappointing, looked like it had been thrown at plate. Taste was average and on par with what I would expect from a fast food chain outlet. Service was terrible, was given conflicting information multiple times about how we needed to order and pay. Place was like an inferno, had to request windows to be opened which staff member couldn't figure out so we ended up opening them ourselves. Really want to support local joints, but l am fed up with paying for poorly created food and little service. We can do much better Wellington!!! Take pride in what you do or don't bother.

Arrived 6.05pm ordered drink and directed to table. Drink service excellent. Restaurant staff walking all around . At no time approached with menu. After 20 mins i approached the bar asked for menu and how to order. Disappointing start. Meal arrived promptly and was of a good standard. Restaurant staff need to lift their game.

We held a conference dinner and pub quiz at the Backbencher last week. Cathy, Alex and the team were amazing, making it easy to organise. Everything went seamlessly and we all had the most amazing night, with great food and an amazing atmosphere!!! Thank you team!!!

Nice place, friendly staff, we had the journos platter and was enough to eat for the three of us and all nice and tasty. My 3 stars represents that I’d never return, the lack of a premium draft lager meant there was no draft for me to drink and I don’t like hoppy beers and macs gold and Steinlager are not my cup of tea.