PHOTO: Garage Project
Wellington’s hospitality scene has been rocked by closures, downturns, and uncertainty — but this week brings not one, but two major announcements that promise fresh energy for the capital’s dining and drinking culture.
👉 Garage Project has confirmed it will take over the Fortune Favours brew bar on Leeds Street, just days after Fortune Favours sadly announced it was closing its doors.
At the same time, Garage Project has also revealed an exciting partnership with top restaurateur Ben Bayly to revive the iconic Wellington Pavilion in Oriental Bay.
💔 Fortune Favours No More — But Not Forgotten
Shannon, Dale and the Fortune Favours team transformed one of Wellington’s original character buildings into a much-loved gathering spot. Their creative flair and community spirit built one of the city’s best places to enjoy a craft beer.
But in a cruel twist, the brand’s very name — Fortune Favours — didn’t hold true. The brutal downturn in Wellington’s hospitality industry left the business struggling to survive, and last week they confirmed the closure of their flagship brew bar.
Their final day of trading was Sunday, marking the end of an era for loyal fans.
Fortune Favours No More – Kiwi Businesses Collapse as Families Struggle to Survive
🍺 Garage Project Steps In
Rather than letting the legacy disappear, Garage Project has announced it will take over the running of the brew pub — and importantly, will bring Fortune Favours’ employees into the GP team.
“What they managed to create in the heart of Wellington is too good to be relegated to the scrap heap,” Garage Project said.
When the doors reopen, they’ll open onto a new chapter: a uniquely Garage Project experience in one of the most vibrant parts of the city.
🌆 Revitalising Leeds Street
Garage Project is also making it clear that this isn’t just about saving a single venue. They’re committed to revitalising Wellington’s inner city at a time when it desperately needs a boost.
Leeds Street has long been home to some of the capital’s most iconic venues, including:
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🍸 Golding’s Freedive
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🥟 Mr Go’s
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🥖 Shelly Bay Bakery
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🍹 Hanging Ditch
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🍝 Pomodoros
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🍫 Wellington Chocolate Factory
Garage Project says they are excited to join and support this buzzing community — and to ensure that Wellington’s central city continues to offer world-class food, drink, and culture.
🔮 What’s Next?
The doors of Fortune Favours have closed for good — but very soon they’ll swing open again with a Garage Project makeover. Expect fresh beers, fresh energy, and the same sun-drenched courtyard that made the venue so special.
For Wellington beer lovers, it’s not goodbye. It’s the beginning of something new.
