Moore Wilson's Tory Street

To be honest, here at Neat Places we were a bit confused by what to make of Moore Wilson’s for a moment, because you see, we find supermarkets to be generally pretty uninspiring places (to phrase it nicely). But of course when we came to check out this Wellington institution, our scepticism evaporated in about five seconds, because this place is more like the overgrown love-child of your favourite top-end delicatessen and local greengrocer than a supermarket. Oh, and butcher. And fishmonger. And baker. And wine merchant…  It literally has everything—and everything is amazing. It’s like going to a shop where you’ve personally chosen all your favourite delicious things for them to sell. Even the things you’ve never heard of yet.

For those of you who would be quite happy not to walk the aisle of another generic, soulless supermarket chain ever again, let us introduce you to Moore Wilson’s. This world-famous-in-Wellington food emporium should be at the top of all ‘must visit’ lists, whether you’re a local or visitor to the city, and with four stores (Tory St, Porirua, Masterton and Lower Hutt), there’s no excuse.

Moore Wilson’s Fresh stocks a huge selection of New Zealand and internationally sourced produce – think fresh, seasonal, locally grown fruit and vegetables and amazing locally produced meat, seafood by Moana, an impressive selection of cured meats and cheeses that will make you drool at the very sight of them, a huge range of beautiful locally baked breads and sweet treats and a huge array of artisan products such as ice creams, jams, sauces and cooking ingredients. It also offers fresh coffee and exquisite flowers, all of which permeate the aisles with the most amazing smells. It’s quite simply a foodie heaven!

At the Tory St store you’ll find delicious orange juice squeezed in front of your very eyes, a piazza home to food pods cooking up fresh Greek street food, sushi and try coffee from one of three local roasteries. In the upstairs car park, the very cool, retro Citroen H Van sells scrumptious, seasonal, vegetarian salads, delectable baked goods and more by Lyall Bay’s own Queen Sally’s Diamond Deli.

Be sure to check out Moore Wilson's Variety too, where you’ll find an extensive selection of things for the kitchen—crockery, appliances, serving ware, utensils, cookbooks, you name it, Moore Wilson’s has it. If you have a little one in your life a trip to the Toy department is a must, featuring murals by Wellington artist Ned Barraud, you'll find a range of kids books and toys. Just across the car park is Moore Wilson’s Wine, Beer and Spirits, which sells an impressive selection of wines, beers and New Zealand and international spirits.

If you’re into food, there’s no doubt you’ll be into Moore Wilson's. And there’s no doubt you’ll leave with several bulging shopping bags.