Established · 15 signalsbeverages Golden Bay
Mussel Inn
Andrew & Jane Dixon
Craft ObsessionAuthentic SourcingMulti-GenerationalOriginal SourceStory RichArtisan QualityOperator PassionPersonal ConnectionCommunity tractionMoment of CareFringe CultureTradition PreservedUnusual LocationEmerging momentumHidden Discovery
Their Story
The Mussel Inn was founded in 1992 by Andrew and Jane Dixon, with their first day of operation on December 3rd. Brewery operations commenced three years later in 1995. The Dixons started the Mussel Inn out of a desire to create a social hub for family and friends in Golden Bay, as they felt there…
What They Make
Beers
- Captain Cooker Manuka Beer (flagship, red-brown, manuka tips, Pacific Gem & Wakatu hops)
- Pale Whale Ale (traditional IPA style, big body)
- Golden Goose Lager (easy-drinking golden lager, 100% Canterbury Pilsner malt, local hops)
- Dark Horse Black Beer (dark and roasty, not too dry)
- Black Rhino (robust imperial porter-style dark ale, 6% ABV)
- Monkey Puzzle (extra strong, Belgium-style ale, 10% ABV)
- Lean Lamb (farmhouse sour beer, slightly tart, ever-evolving)
- Heat Rash Chilli Beer (Golden Goose Lager with chili added to bottle, heat develops with age)
- East India Golden Ale (lighter golden ale, 2% ABV)
- Red Rooster (Irish Red Ale)
- Corker Porker (spice, herb, or vegetable beer)
Ciders
- Original apple cider
- Freckled Frog feijoa cider
- Cayenne chilli cider
- Cider made with Golden Bay mead
Soft Drinks
- Homemade lemonade
- Homemade ginger beer
Food
- Fresh Steamed Mussels (when available, highly recommended)
- Mussel Chowder Onekaka style (signature dish)
- Steak
- Fish
- Vegetarian options
- Snacky foods (nachos, garlic bread, "sossys" - sausages)
Merchandise
- Branded items
More from Mussel Inn
Live Music Venue (regularly hosts local and international talent, usually weekend nights, almost every second night in January)Events and Community Gatherings (quiz nights, open mic nights, comedy shows, storytelling evenings, Live Poets, sustainability-focused events, fundraisers, sports club gatherings)Musician Accommodation (provides meals and lodging to musicians in their log house)Garden and Orchard (on-site where they grow produce for the kitchen, including apples, feijoas, and hops)CafeBar