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 the CBD for over 13 years.

Brother-sister team Brent Wong and Tania Siladi grew up working in their parents' restaurant before travelling overseas to absorb hospitality lessons from restaurants around the world. Upon returning to Wellington with their vision, they pulled two aces: a blank canvas (the building had been gutted for earthquake strengthening) and the expertise of restaurant designer Allistar Cox. What they’ve created represents who they are, what they've learned, and what they offer.

An antique Chinese reception desk anchors the entrance, where bronze opium weights from the Silk Road serve as coat hooks. The vintage bar, warm with wood tones, curves before deep green walls accented by contemporary portraits and orange pendant lights. Follow a shadowed passage to the dining areas, where candlelit tables are framed by red velvet curtains, while woven pendants and yellow fan fixtures cast intimate lighting across the room. Through to the back, the bamboo courtyard contrasts living walls and weathered timber against exposed brick and glowing lanterns.

The sharing menu delivers dishes such as: seared sesame tuna with nahm jim and coconut lemongrass gel, aromatic red duck curry with pineapple and lime leaf, 55-day aged beef short rib with black vinegar and sweet soy. Their wine list is an international affair, perfectly complementing the Asian flavours on show. Finish with the dark chocolate Vietnamese coffee mousse, or another cocktail amongst the bamboo.

In a part of the city that is always evolving, Dragonfly has remained a constant, providing locals and visitors, regulars and first-timers with an experience that goes well beyond dinner and a drink.