Martin, there is a downstairs area they said we can use at O'Carrolls for tastings, plus the new operator is running Queens Ferry (which is only half way through a 9 year contract with DB, so no chance of a tap there) but they have a bigger space, and bar upstairs, currently used for functions and maybe able to use for tastings and beers dinners.
Looks like we have a door opening here for craft beer, which is exciting. Also they said they have a new menu on, but haven't tried anything yet.
I checked in with Gowalla, and the last comment was about how bad the food was (new menu) it said "who puts grated carrot on Nachos" guess the menu could only improve
Except maybe Belle-Vue (which I don't rate anyway) I don't think they have anything I can't get at the supermarket. And that one's usually full of yuppie scum anyway.
I had lunch there a couple of years ago when I was up seeing PJ Harvey with her piano (and Mick Harvey of Bad Seeds fame)... it felt like McDonalds for 30-somethings but at least I could have an Orval with my fries!
Next time you are in, ask discretely if they have anything interesting in the cellar. I've heard rumours... (though I'm not sure if it is that place or another 'Belgian' cafe in Auckland).
Haven't seen a tweet on this Luke, do you know if they've got Epic on yet? It's closer to work than Brew, and after just looking at the Brew website I'm not sure I want to support them anymore. Selling bog-standard crap like Monteiths Summer Ale at $8.50 for a 330ml bottle is seriously taking the piss.