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 this part of the world. A story that began with two tables and a gazebo has grown into a deeply personal, deeply flavourful home where laughter and conversation are enjoyed over a shared meal and plenty of stories.

Hasan and Flora, the power couple behind Damascus, have infused their space with elements of their shared journey, culminating in a celebration of fused cultures and recipes passed down through generations. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with a thoughtful mix of rustic charm and contemporary class. Like many of its immediate neighbours on Tory Street, the layout is long and narrow, adding to an intimate feel where the chatter from different tables mingles into a harmony. From the scent of fresh saaj bread to the low hum of conversation, it feels more like dining in someone’s home than in a restaurant. And that’s the point.

It’s not just the atmosphere that’s top-notch at Damascus - the attention to detail that goes into each ingredient is something to behold. The team butchers a whole lamb from Conscious Valley every week, using every inch of it for the mains and specials, avoiding any wastage. Everything is made from scratch, from the bread baked daily to the sauces, pickles, and marinades. If the hummus here is some of the best you’ve tried, it’s no surprise why - it, too, is handmade, and can take up to three days to prepare. The shish tawook comes off the grill smoky and juicy, while the zahra (fried cauliflower) could convert even the most devoted carnivores. The fatoush is punchy, herby, and fresh, and the busa (Middle Eastern ice cream) is the perfect swansong to your meal.

There’s just something special about Damascus that goes far beyond the food. It’s a restaurant, an homage to cuisine that crosses borders, where painstaking care is palpable on every plate and numerous stories are told through spices and seasonings.