University of Otago magazine Critic Te Ārohi published a satirical article ranking a range of southern pubs according to how scary they were.
The author said he toured the pubs in a quest to shape himself into the "Southern Man" he desired to become.
On the Casafuego the author said: "The tension was so palpable that my entrance into the bar warranted six or seven onlookers to glare at me in abhorrence."
Casafuego Eatery and Bar owner Andrew Hayward-Swain said the magazine’s conclusion came as quite a surprise.
"I think it’s quite funny," he said. "Maybe the skeletons threw people off."
Mr Hayward-Swain said the local clientele were typically people in their 30s and 40s, and students did not usually make it down that far.
He said the students would be welcomed back with open arms as southern men, if they returned.
Robin Duff, of Balclutha, disputed the claims."It’s not scary at all, apart from the skeletons on the counter," he said.
Irene Duff, of Balclutha, said pubs in the country got a bad rap.
"I think when you go to somewhere you haven't been, particularly in the country, you tend to be critical."
Clutha Licensing Trust general manager Ross Balloch said he had enjoyed a "hearty laugh" reading the article.
The trust owns the White Horse and Catlins inns.
Mr Balloch issued an open invitation to fearful students.
"Believe me, once you crack the shell of the lads down here, they're golden - a bit like the DB in their hand.
"As long as you’re willing to listen to many legendary duck-shooting tales, you’re welcome back any time with your new-found bravery."
