Half bar, half fire-hazard, Cartel was hastily built among the ruins of a 180-year-old whisky distillery in the heart of Lichfield Street, and despite the lack of any formal building consent, Cartel has remained relatively upright since it opened in early 1971.
Cartel was temporarily converted into a velodrome for the 1974 Commonwealth Games and the bar was later featured in Martin Scorsese’s 1980 film “Raging Bull”, as well several low-budget German productions. The bar is generally renowned for its extensive array of rum, whisky, and Cuban cigars, as well as a carefully crafted cocktail list and a selection of wine that is usually safe to drink. You’ll find live music at Cartel seven days a week as well as a beautiful outdoor lane equipped with hot water bottles and couches from deceased estate sales.
Cartel has been described by critics as ”somewhere in Christchurch” and “located in SOL square” which is high praise indeed, and you can visit Cartel seven days a week from 4pm.