Bellbird Eatery

Museum and art gallery cafes have really upped their game in recent years, evolving from simple refreshment pit stops to attractions in their own right. Housed within The Dowse Art Museum but bringing its own flair to the famed building, Bellbird Eatery is a fine example in the Hutt.

Sporting a relaxed glam feel throughout, the atmosphere at Bellbird is understated yet classy. Various grains of wood — from the panelling on the counter to the high tables and exposed ceiling beams — add a rich depth of textures, accentuated further by the patterned tiles and wall art. Bellbird’s iconic royal-blue coffee cups add pops of colour throughout the space, which invites in plenty of light and views through the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors. Old-school soul is usually the playlist of choice here, adding to the cosy cafe feel.

The menu is as wide-ranging as it is inclusive, featuring all your favourite breakfast, brunch, and lunch items. Out of a strong lineup, the Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a go-to for many, as is the classic Smashed Avocado. Among the newer dishes, the Chicken Meze Plate and Thai Beef Salad have also quietly been building reputations of their own.

Whether you’re heading in for a brunch catch-up or just stopping by after a visit to The Dowse, there are options galore at this popular and well-established destination in the Hutt.