Eating and drinking in the capital is an experience in itself, and restaurants in Wellington play a big part in continuing to make this place a hot spot for tourists and locals alike.
The colour, quirkiness and character of Wellington certainly revolves around people, and when those same people need to eat three times a day, then the restaurant scene quickly becomes very much tied in with how the city presents itself.
Eating out at your favourite place is half the fun, the other half is deciding where to go next time. Much like the social scene hosted by bars in Wellington, restaurants here are plentiful, but each place comes with its own flair and flavour, and we are yet to hear of anyone ever getting bored with what is on offer. From spectacular fine-dining to fish and chips gone modern, to the cheap and cheerful places dotting Cuba Street, Wellington restaurants offer visitors the chance to taste a bit of home as well as cuisines from all over the world. Spanish tapas, Vietnamese spring rolls, Chinese dumplings, Indian curries and French crepes, the global palette finds itself right at home in Wellington, where locals are not afraid to try something different.
A trend towards plant-based, vegetarian and vegan diets sees plenty on the menu for those with dietary requirements too, although this city is certainly not without an enthusiastic carnivorous crowd too.
Foodie events throughout the year see the inner city come alive with friendly competition between restaurants, and just as frequently you will see eateries teaming up to bring you collaborations that are lip-lickingly good. Be wowed by the attention to detail that restaurants in Wellington ensure at their establishments, which means you will never feel like you are being treated to the same thing twice.
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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.
La Bella Italia
Down an unassuming side street in industrial Petone, you’ll find La Bella Italia, Lower Hutt’s very own Little Italy.
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 Mexican in the Hutt.
Gerry's Charcoal Chicken
On a small side street in the sleepy suburb of Elderslea, you’ll find what appears to be an unassuming - if not slightly dated - takeaway shop.
Keihei Chicken
A bright, bold splash of yellow on Fergusson Drive, Keihei Chicken brings more than just warmth and colour to this otherwise grey corner of Upper Hutt.
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Widely regarded as Wellington’s premier craft beer destination, Brewtown isn’t just a mecca for beer lovers, but also for those who simply appreciate good food...
Baylands Brewery
Based in Petone, Baylands Brewery and Taproom is a relaxed, welcoming space offering up a wide range of fresh beer and tasty food.
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.
Joe & Joy
Joe & Joy is a husband-wife-run bakery and cafe in the heart of Waikanae village.
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Long Beach Tavern
The ultimate community restaurant, Long Beach, is a Waikanae institution.
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.
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...
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Everything from an early risers' coffee stop to a late-night live music venue.
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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.
50-50
Located in the heart of Paraparaumu Beach township, 50-50 is a destination restaurant with a dining experience not to be missed.
Salty's Diner
A hybrid between a pub and a restaurant, Salty's is an experience not to be missed while visiting the Kāpiti Coast.
Margot
Tucked away in the heart of Newtown in Wellington is the little restaurant, Margot.
Huckle & Co
The perfect summer afternoon doesn’t exis… oh wait, it does, and you’ll find it in Seatoun in Wellington.
Kisa
Middle Eastern dining revolves around sharing - of food, conversation, and good times.
Mabel's
When it comes to evoking a sense of identity through spatial design, few restaurants in the capital do it better than Mabel’s.
Next Door
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Dragons
A name synonymous with yum cha in Wellington, Dragons is an institution in the capital’s Asian dining scene.
Wilson Barbecue
Wilson Barbecue has a new permanent home after wowing Wellingtonian's with their food truck delights and pop-up stints. Wilson Barbecue is loudly and proudly “all about the meat”, and their brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, all cooked low ‘n slow, enjoy a richly deserved reputation.
Los Banditos
Los Banditos brings Wellington flavoursome Mexican food, a lively atmosphere, exciting drinks and friendly service.
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.
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.
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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.
Heyday
A fun and easy going brewery and bar, with plenty of games (including table tennis!) to keep you entertained.
Ombra
Ombra goes to show that great food and great service are a winning combination every time.
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.
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.
Scopa Pizzeria
A great option for pizza or a late night chocolate hit, this little landmark has you covered.
Olive
Olive provides attentive service, luxurious ambiance, perfectly poached eggs and a top cup of black coffee.
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Havana Bar
Part restaurant, part bar, Havana is an absolute essential in every sense of those two words.
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.
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.
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