A Taste Trail Through Wellington's Courtenay Precinct
Monsoon Poon Wellington
Providing nourishment in abundance (as the name would suggest), Wellington’s Monsoon Poon has been a Blair Street fixture for a quarter of a century and counting.
Fork & Brewer
From the moment you cast your eye on the row of gleaming brew vessels and polished tap handles, Bond Street’s Fork & Brewer in Wellington signals that here, beer...
Slice
Decked out in a neon green that you just can’t miss if you’re anywhere near Lombard Street, there’s something joyfully unpretentious about Slice.
J & M Fastfoods
Crowned by a giant Coca-Cola bottle that's become a Courtenay Place landmark, J&M Fastfoods has been satisfying Wellington's lunch crowds and night owls for nearly two...
Phoenician Falafel
Proudly serving traditional Lebanese from a small shop beside the Embassy Theatre on Kent Terrace, Phoenician Falafel is Wellington's window into Beirut's street-food scene.
FJ Noodles and Dumplings
Tucked within the humming heart of dynamic Courtenay Place, FJ Noodles and Dumplings could be one of the nation’s most unassuming noodle artisans.
Kazu Yakitori & Sake Bar
Hidden within the second floor of the historic Stewarts Building on Courtenay Place is Kazu Yakitori & Sake Bar.
Dragonfly
Dragonfly is a hidden oasis within Wellington’s Courtenay Place, lively yet intimate, this modern Asian venue has cultivated an unrivalled atmosphere and service in...
Nicolini's
Serving a slice of Naples since '97, Nicolini's on Blair Street is Wellington's answer to the classic Italian trattoria.
Aurora Argentinian Bakery
You can tell right away that Aurora Argentinian Bakery is the kind of place that was built from scratch with love, and that’s because it was.
Salut Pies
What do you do when you can’t find a decent pie and coffee for your 5am commute? You make them yourself, of course and in the process, create a Wellingtonian cult...
Amuse Snack Bar
With a delightful menu that evolves throughout the day, Amuse Snack Bar on Wellington’s Willis Street blends European aperitivo with Australasian coffee culture for an...
City Icons: 10 Long-Standing Eateries in the Heart of Courtenay Precinct
Hummingbird
Occupying a prominent corner spot on Courtenay Place, there’s something magnetic about Hummingbird, a perennial energy that hums beneath the surface, pulling you into...
Everybody Eats
Who knew that making a difference to the community could taste so good? At Everybody Eats on Wellington’s Dixon Street, the heart of hospitality beats loud and clear.
Sketchbook Coffee
At Wellington’s Sketchbook Coffee, things don’t need to be complicated to be great, they just need to be done with heart.
The Class of '25: Wellington's Best Openings
Völco Egmont Street
Völco’s latest outpost is a warm, welcoming addition to Wellington that takes over the former site of the much-loved Egmont Street Deli & Diner.
Damascus
With a menu that reads like a love letter to Syrian cooking, Damascus, found in the heart of Wellington, is a place where all are warmly invited to delight in the food from...
Hei
From the creator of that Wellington institution KC Cafe comes Hei, a refreshingly contemporary take on Chinese cuisine.
Eva's Garage
Who knew you could fit so much into a garage? Wellington’s Eva’s Garage isn’t your average coffee stop, it’s a one-of-a-kind inner-city escape built...
Cuba St Tavern
A fresh, funky tribute to Wellington’s most iconic street, Cuba St Tavern is a celebration of everything that makes the capital’s hospo scene one of the most...
Le Ciel
A true labour of love, Le Ciel is a plucky little bakery that brings tastes and techniques from around the world right to the heart of Wellington’s Tory Street.
Chouchou
Chouchou brings a playful dose of Parisian flair to Wellington’s waterfront, with a menu and mood that make it equally tempting for a morning pastry run or a long,...
Shelly Bay Baker on Karori Road
Having long been a household name in Wellington, the opening of Shelly Bay Baker’s Karori branch means New Zealand’s largest suburb now has easy access to some...
The Ram
Rubbing shoulders with Cuba Street institutions, The Ram is a classy, contemporary bistro that blends sophistication with an unmistakably laid-back Wellington vibe.
Kai Tahi
Porirua is well-known as a proud harbour city, with its glistening waters an indelible part of its social and aesthetic identity.
Shelly Bay Baker on Leeds Street
When the call of carbs rings out loudly in Wellington, follow the scent of freshly baked bread down Leeds Street and through the door of Shelly Bay Baker.
Glou Glou
Located inside Wellington’s iconic Exchange Building on Allen Street, Glou Glou is an upmarket casual cafe that is ultra sleek yet laid-back enough to warrant a daily...
Te Ngākau Precinct After Dark
La Bella Italia
Discover Lower Hutt's very own Little Italy down an unassuming side street in Petone.
Bellbird Eatery
Bringing its own flair to a famed building with its relaxed glam feel, Bellbird Eatery is a fine example of a museum cafe in the Hutt.
Hive Café
A friendly, fresh and big cafe in Eastbourne that prides itself on being genuine, baking everything, every day, and having particularly kind staff.
Abandoned Taproom Petone
A real community hub where anyone can bring their dogs and kids, chill out, and have a yarn without feeling like they have to be a craft beer nerd.
Dine Around the World in Central Wellington
Cake & Kitchen
A home away from home, this Upper Hutt cafe plays an important role in the community and leads by example when it comes to sustainability.
Viva Mexico
This is not the place to be ordering chili con carne or hard-shell tacos. At Viva Mexico, you'll be treated to a true taste of Mexico in the Hutt.
Dough Upper Hutt
Come for the art, stay for the coffee and doughnuts at Dough Bakery in Upper Hutt – conveniently located in one of the town's most popular cultural haunts.
Tartines French Cafe
A small slice of French culinary delight with handmade tarts, pastries, fresh bread and classic dishes that will have you mistaking Lower Hutt for Lyon.
House of Good Fortune
Petone’s myriad side streets hold plenty of delightful surprises, and if you’re lucky enough, you might just stumble upon House of Good Fortune.
Keihei Chicken
Keihei Chicken brings more than just warmth and colour to this corner of Upper Hutt.
Baylands Brewery
From a garage under a house to this spacious, modern taproom, Baylands is paving an exciting beer journey.
Cars Inc.
A family-owned passion project cafe and car museum, with over 60 cars of special interest.
Comes & Goes
This café offers a captivating fusion of Asian and Kiwi delights, an explosion of edible flowers and culinary masterpieces that Wellingtonians are welcoming with open arms.
The Dutch Shop
The Dutch Shop is a perennial favourite among Petone locals and visitors alike - particularly those with a penchant for cheese.
Tricky's Sandwich Co.
It’s hard to beat a good sandwich – Tricky’s Sandwich Co. is a family-run sandwich joint that has made it their business to be unbeatable.
Kilim Petone
A revered name in Wellington’s Turkish scene, Kilim is synonymous with quality, hearty kebabs done well, with its reputation extending far beyond the Hutt Valley.
City of Makers: Inside Wellington's Creative Culture
Twenty Eight
Eager to explore new ideas, this cafe has thoughtfully crafted food and drink offerings that are both classic and slightly different, and always delicious.
Seashore Cabaret
This café definitely takes the title for best view of the city, and doesn't do anything by halves.
Gerry's Charcoal Chicken
A revered Upper Hutt institution that has been serving delicious spit-roasted chicken to the community for decades.
Trade School Kitchen
This not-for-profit cafe provides a space of belonging and offers training opportunities for people facing employment barriers.
Key Ingredients to Wellington Hospitality with Cosmo
Forage Merchants of Wellington
With a range that includes food and drink, health and beauty, art, music and so much more, Forage Merchants celebrates the very best of what the greater Wellington region has to offer.
Small Batch, Ripe Coffee Roasters
This small but mighty Petone-based coffee roaster has well and truly established itself as a trusty local for many Hutt goers.
Brewtown Eat & Drink
A mecca for beer lovers and those who simply appreciate good food.
Miss Fortune's
The industrial precinct isn’t exactly where you’d think to head for a slice of quintessential Wellington hospitality, but at Miss Fortune’s, you’ll find one of the region’s most charismatic little brunch spots.
Jean's
An artisan bakery and coffee shop that adds plenty of life and character to Fergusson Drive.
Fig Tree Café
Go for a cuppa and delicious food inside this converted church, and stay for the welcoming service and friendly chats.
Montfoort
Montfoort has a simple yet exciting mission: to showcase the very best of sweet Dutch street food.
The Lockup
Situated a stone's throw away from the beach at Paraparaumu, The Lockup is the ultimate ocean-side cafe, complete with a large outdoor area and a chilled vibe.
Joe & Joy
Joe & Joy is a husband-wife-run bakery and cafe in the heart of Waikanae village.
Salt and Wood BBQ
A self-acclaimed carnivore haven, Salt and Wood BBQ in Waikanae is all about big, bold, meaty meals.
Bus Stop Cafe
Bus Stop Cafe is a hidden secret, a stone's throw away from Te Horo Beach.
Long Beach Tavern
The ultimate community restaurant, Long Beach, is a Waikanae institution.
The Ultimate Wellington Coffee & Treat Trail
Penray Gardens
Penray Gardens is a pick-your-own paradise located in Ōtaki on the Kāpiti Coast.
Peoples Coffee Roastery
Head to Newtown, venture a bit further past the chaotic and colourful Riddiford Street, and you’ll stumble across Peoples Coffee’s roastery HQ café, the...
Noble Rot
Boasting an almost 1,000-strong wine list, it’s no surprise that Noble Rot is widely considered Wellington's premier wine bar.
Willis Lane
Wellington’s city streets are constantly humming with life and energy, but for a playful excursion that breaks the norm, you’ll want to head underground.
The Heart of Thorndon Quay: Four Traders Who Have Stood the Test of Time
KC Café & Takeaway
An unassuming takeaway in the eyes of the casual visitor to Wellington, KC Cafe is so ingrained in the culinary history of the capital that it may as well have heritage status.
Indian Alley
Just a short stroll from Oriental Bay in Wellington, Indian Alley is a classy little restaurant that offers something new and exciting to even the most seasoned enthusiasts...
Squirrel
Nestled near the corner of popular Blair Street, Squirrel offers a warm and inviting haven complemented by a menu that showcases the best of Wellington’s producers and suppliers.
Dark Horse
Dark Horse artisan coffee roaster is committed to sustainable practices; its ethos is to Leave Less Hoofprints.
Duncan's Brewing Company
Known for dessert-style beers of sours and stouts, Duncan’s is on a mission to create wacky and interesting flavours that surprise and arouse curiosity.
Passo
You wouldn’t expect to stumble upon an authentic Sicilian restaurant serving up mouthwatering dishes in the heart of Paraparaumu, but Passo is here to challenge your expectations.
The Raumati Social Club
Everything from an early risers' coffee stop to a late-night live music venue.
Olde Beach Bakery Paekākāriki
Olde Beach Bakery Paekākāriki pumps out delicious baked goods in the heart of Paekākāriki for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.
Beach Road Deli
A bright and beachy café offering great coffee and quality kai in the cute seaside town of Paekākāriki.
50-50
Located in the heart of Paraparaumu Beach township, 50-50 is a destination restaurant with a dining experience not to be missed.
Customs
Some of the finest coffee in town since 2010, Wellington's Customs is the flagship café co-owned by Coffee Supreme and their long-time employee, Tim Norriss.
CGR Merchant & Co
Look for an unassuming red door in the heart of Courtenay Place in Wellington and you’ll be whisked away to one of the city’s best cocktail lounges.
Rediscovering Thorndon Quay: Where History Meets Modern Design
Margot
Tucked away in the heart of Newtown in Wellington is the little restaurant, Margot.
Graze Wine Bar
Wellington’s central city eateries are revered across the country, and for good reason.
Huckle & Co
The perfect summer afternoon doesn’t exis… oh wait, it does, and you’ll find it in Seatoun in Wellington.
August Eatery
August conjures many things in the minds of Wellingtonians: the last throes of a bitingly cold winter, the promise of warmer days ahead, the prospect of the country’s...
A Guide to Asian Cuisine in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Kisa
Middle Eastern dining revolves around sharing - of food, conversation, and good times.
Belén
The vision for Wellington bakery Belén was simple: to prove there are no limits to what can be created with plants.
Fred's
Wellington loves a little food bar and a small but punchy Cuba Street shop simply named Fred's might just be the hottest place in town to grab a sandwich.
The Oatery
Having built a reputation for feeding Wellingtonians healthy breakfasts on the go, it was only a matter of time before food caravan The Oatery set up a permanent shop.
Monkfish
A cosy refillery and off-licence that’s strictly about good vibes, Monkfish is your Vivian Street stop for your beer, wine, and spirits needs.
Next Door
Positioned right next to neighbourhood favourite Margot, Next Door makes up one...
Dragons
A name synonymous with yum cha in Wellington, Dragons is an institution in the capital’s Asian dining scene.
Duck Island Wellington
It was only a matter of time before Hamilton’s Duck Island ice cream came knocking on Wellington’s door.
Los Banditos
Los Banditos brings Wellington flavoursome Mexican food, a lively atmosphere, exciting drinks and friendly service.
Zelati
From the texture to the rich, bright flavours, their range of sorbet and gelato offerings are impressive on the palate and pleasing to the eye.
Puffin
Welcome to Puffin, a “wine bar with a focus on organic and minimal intervention wines”.
Highwater Eatery
This new eatery combines its efforts of sustainability with celebrating the good times - meaning you can eat and drink and have a great time with the knowledge that you're supporting the good guys.
Dinner and a Show: Where to Eat, Drink, and Be Entertained in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Taste of Home
This place has a cult following simply due to word of mouth - proof that the flavours here are something Wellingtonians just can’t get enough of.
Ascot
Hotdogs and wine might seem like an unlikely combination, but at The Ascot, no one’s going to judge you holding a glass of wine in one hand and a saucy dog in the other.
Swimsuit
Community is definitely the feel you get here too - expect to see people reading books, catching up on university goss, and all with impeccable coffee in hand.
Betsy
In a suburb that seems like it’s perpetually on holiday, easy-going modern deli Betsy feels right at home in Island Bay.
One of a Kind Finds in Porirua
Heyday
A fun and easy going brewery and bar, with plenty of games (including table tennis!) to keep you entertained.
Charley Noble
A favourite spot for nearby business people, don't be surprised to see Charley Noble buzzing with guests even early in the week right through from breakfast till dinnertime.
Parrotdog Bar
A brilliant retro-fit bar that welcomes tradies, business folk, families, children and even dogs.
Maranui Café
A café housed in a heritage surf lifesaving building that once had a close call with a fiery fate
Queen Sally's Diamond Deli
A Lyall Bay mainstay, Queen Sally's is the amazingly kitsch and eclectic café which services the residents of, and visitors to, this rather lovely Wellington suburb.
Frank's Newtown
Frank’s Newtown is a little replica of its sibling café on The Terrace and has found itself to be a quickly loved part of Newtown culture.
Ombra
Ombra goes to show that great food and great service are a winning combination every time.
Staple Espresso
Sleek and simple, Staple Espresso speaks volumes about letting a product do the talking – and in this case it’s the coffee that’s got people chatting
LUCKY
Keeping things simple, LUCKY takes its vibes from the West Coast skate scene, where doing your own thing comes with a hint of rebellion.
Dine Around the World in Porirua
Black Coffee
A coffee shop, music shop and art gallery all in one, Black Coffee has quickly cemented itself as one of the favourite Newtown hangouts.
Empire Cinema & Eatery
Empire is fitting for a cinema that pre-dated ‘talkies’ when it played its first reel in 1925, but as far as movie theatres go, this one is more for those who’d pick pinot over popcorn.
Mystic Kitchen
You have no doubt heard of this café’s laid-back vibes, easy-going staff and damn good food.
Our Kid-Friendly Guide to Porirua
Hillside Kitchen & Cellar
Without any conventional marketing, Hillside’s profile has been built by partnering with great local producers like Six Barrel Soda, Fig & Fog, Two Sisters wine, and Noble Estate Olive Oil.
ParrotDog Brewery & Nice. Takeaway
Exuding 70’s retro vibes, ParrotDog’s cellar door (‘Nice.
Wellington Chocolate Factory
A dangerously delicious spot for your hot chocolate and sweet treat fix.
Scopa Pizzeria
A great option for pizza or a late night chocolate hit, this little landmark has you covered.
Havana Coffee Works
This cozy, retro café on Tory Street moves through to an open-air, garage-style roastery.
Hawthorn Lounge
The service at Hawthorn Lounge is impeccable, in the sense that they're attentive without being overbearing. It's novel enough to make you realise that most places have forgotten the hospitable out of hospitality.
Pickle and Pie
After many a lunchtime spent hankering for just a ‘good old sandwich’, Tim Tracey and Mia Freeman decided to take matters into their own hands.
Bicycle Junction
Catching on to the retro cycles trend, the clever people behind Bicycle Junction's new neighbourhood bikery, describe themselves as “Urban Specialists.”
Rogue & Vagabond
A great spot for meeting friends, socialising or just watching the Wellington crowd do their thing.
Garage Project
Situated in an old petrol station in the Aro Valley, Garage Project’s vibe is all about producing experimental beers in a perfect, yet unexpected setting.
Eat, Play, Explore: A Family Weekend in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Courtenay Precinct might be well-known as Wellington’s go-to for nightlife, but it’s also packed with plenty of family-friendly fun.
With its mix of food, entertainment, and outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here’s how to spend a fun-filled family weekend in and around Wellington’s bustling Courtenay Precinct.
Rich Coffee Roasters
Although the relative new guys on the block, Rich Coffee Roasters are by no means amateurs.
Ortega Fish Shack
A favourite amongst Wellingtonians, Ortega Fish Shack is a must go-to seafood restaurant within the city.
Mr Go's
A happy mix of West meets East, pink meets green, and beer meets bao, Mr Go’s is proof that an eatery needn’t stick to one concrete theme.
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Baker Gramercy
It’s the kind of simplistically stylish bakery you’d expect to find on a New York avenue or down a European side street.
The Library
Hidden behind an unassuming ground floor entrance, The Library is another well-known establishment that overlooks the go-go crowd of Courtenay Place.
Crumpet
Crumpet on Manners Street is a quaint café / bar and quite possibly Wellington’s best kept secret.
Tomboy
A small boutique café, cakery and catering business with the feel of a country cottage kitchen.
Hanging Ditch
Hanging Ditch, for those who are yet to visit, is Leeds’ Street best little slice of stealth.
Commonsense Wellington City
For all things organic, Commonsense Organics is the place to visit – and luckily for Wellingtonians there are four stores to choose from.
Little Beer Quarter
With 12 craft beers on tap and over 100 bottled beers from New Zealand and around the globe, this inner-city pub truly is a gem.
Meow
Live music, slam poetry readings, stand-up comedy and a thumping happy hour make Meow a versatile venue.
Havana Bar
Part restaurant, part bar, Havana is an absolute essential in every sense of those two words.
Deluxe Espresso Bar
Open till late in the evening, this has, for years, been a popular coffee spot with young and old, hipsters and working folk – anything goes.
Best Ugly Bagels Wellington
Located in the lively neighbourhood of Te Aro, they serve what they do best, delicious bagels accompanied with classic Havana coffee.
Good as Gold’s Raag Ponnuchetty’s Guide to Te Ngākau Civic Precinct, Wellington
Cicio Cacio
You might try Cicio Cacio before a gig next door but the food in itself is worth a quick 10-minute bus trip or Uber from the city.
Moore Wilson's Tory Street
If you’re into food there’s no doubt you’ll be into Moore Wilson's.
Eat Your Heart Out: Culinary Delights in Wellington's Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
