Rincones Sabrosos: The Best Latin American Restaurants in Wellington
Taco Tuesday coming up? Here are the best places to head to in Wellington for a fix of Latin American soul food.
Words by: John Son
Photos by: Anna Briggs
Tacos, enchiladas, feijoada, and empanadas - you name it, if it’s a Latin American treat, you’re likely to find it in Wellington.
Perhaps one of the more underrated players in Wellington’s formidable food scene, top-notch Latin American food abounds in the capital - you just have to know where to look.
And we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill taco joints. From sizzling asado platters that evoke the flavours and heat of Argentina, to chic cafes serving up meaty Brazilian or Cuban brunches, you can take your tastebuds on a journey through Latin America right here in this compact city. Here are our picks of the bunch.
El Matador
196 Cuba Street, Te Aro
One of the standout restaurants on Cuba Street, El Matador is a meat-lover’s paradise, bringing the joys of Argentinian asado culture to the heart of Wellington. Think chunky, wood-fired steaks served alongside a staggering array of meat and seafood tapas. An authentic South American dessert menu (dulce de leche cheesecake, anyone?) ensures you can certainly finish with something sweet.
Los Banditos
19 Blair Street, Te Aro
You can’t walk through Blair Street without being drawn in by the neon lights of Los Banditos, and the food inside is just as lively. Bringing a bold, funky take on Mexican food to central Wellington, the menu is jam-packed with sharing dishes that are as tasty as they are Instagrammable. The flaming cheese, best washed down with a sangria jug, is a must-have.
Tequila Joe’s
35 Dixon Street, Te Aro
With its track record of whipping up Mexican classics done right, it’s no surprise that Tequila Joe’s remains a popular pick for those after a taco fix. Can’t decide what to order? Tequila Joe’s has one of the most impressive daily deal menus in town, so whether you head along on Taco Tuesday or Wings Wednesday, you won’t be out of ideas. Also, did we mention it’s BYO?
Viva Mexico
Various locations
Viva Mexico serves some of the best Mexican food in Wellington, and with two stores in town and one in Petone, you’re never far from the delicious tacos, quesadillas, and other treats on offer. The menu here is a celebration of the tried and tested Mexican staples, so get ready to indulge in all the ceviche, enchiladas, and flautas you can handle.
Ernesto’s
1 Grey Street, Wellington Central
Offering a fusion of Cuban cuisine and American soul food, Ernesto’s is a classy bar and restaurant that blends in with its sophisticated Grey Street neighbours. Open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner, each menu takes you on a different Latin American journey, from breakfast wraps through to hefty burgers and sandwiches. The daily deals are worth checking out too - who could say no to Mojito Mondays?
Bebemos
88 Riddiford Street, Newtown
A quirky little spot that fits seamlessly into its Newtown surrounds, Bebemos is a fantastic all-day eatery serving up classic Latino dishes. Take a seat by the fire inside or for a change of scenery, check out the heated beer garden out back, before diving into the extensive menu. For a versatile brunch or dinner option, try Bebemos’ take on Brazil’s national dish feijoada (black bean stew with wild meats and chorizo).
El Barrio
35 Dixon Street, Te Aro
Tucked away up above street view, El Barrio is a great spot for enjoying some tapas with a side of people-watching. But the tantalising Latin American dishes and cocktails are far from the only drawcards here, as El Barrio is where you come for some serious fun. Whether it’s the live music and fiestas every weekend or the salsa and cocktail-shaking lessons, with karaoke thrown in for good measure, there’s always something happening in this noisy stretch of Dixon Street.
More Wellington Stories
12 Hours Underground at Willis Lane
For a city renowned for its eclectic food scene and spirited nightlife, Wellington's latest venture, Willis Lane, sets a new benchmark.
Nestled beneath the iconic Aon Tower, at the intersection of Willis Street and Lambton Quay, the avant-garde dining and entertainment district promises a dawn-to-dusk sensory voyage.
Are you ready to fill your weekend with irresistible delights? Join us as we guide you through 12 unforgettable hours at Willis Lane.
One of a Kind Finds in Porirua
Shopping is one of the best ways to explore a city, and by sifting through Porirua’s many unique local businesses, you’ll uncover a true melting pot of cultures.
7 Urban Hotels Worth Travelling For
In the UK, the term ‘city-break’ is frequently used to describe a weekend away visiting the European city of the moment, exploring everything on offer and most often staying in boutique accommodation. Now, we may be thousands of miles away from being able to achieve a casual few days in a European city, but here in New Zealand, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to urban hotels that are worth travelling around the country for.
Aotearoa's Underground Haunts, Rooftops and The In-betweens
Dinner, Dessert & Dancing: An After-Dark Guide to Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
When the sun goes down, Courtenay Precinct lights up. Whether you're after a bite to eat, a round of drinks, or a night of dancing with friends, this is where Wellington goes to let their hair down. Here’s our guide to making the most of the Courtenay Precinct after dark.
Neat Wellington Places
Cake & Kitchen
Cake & Kitchen is a cafe in Upper Hutt, bringing people together over delicious food and coffee.
Dough
It may trace its roots to Upper Hutt, but Dough has certainly made a name for itself among bread lovers in Wellington’s city centre.
Aro Video
Stocking an eclectic selection of quality films for hire, Aro Video offers just an inkling of hope that the Internet hasn’t killed the DVD, yet.
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...
Wellington Apothecary
Find a complete range of botanical tonics, teas and skincare, all handmade in small batches at this local apothecary.
