The Class of '25: Wellington's Best Openings

Taking over a much-loved spot on Lombard Lane, Slice brings a clean, casual veneer to the all-day pizza scene. The concept: thick rectangular slices, simple but solid, matched with grab-and-go ease. The fit-out is relaxed and modern, making it a good choice for a quick lunch or a relaxed evening bite. If you find yourself wandering around town and just want a slice (or two) and a drink without the full dinner commitment, this is the place to go.

Opening on Cuba Street, Hei arrives with ambition and is backed by one of the most renowned names in Wellington hospitality. Led by Michael Chan, the mastermind behind KC Cafe, Hei presents a contemporary take on Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting. The menu plays with familiar classics with a twist, and the dining room feels both intimate and elevated. Whether you’re after a thoughtful evening out or a sharp lunch, Hei offers something a little more polished than your standard go-to.

This cafe-meets-aperitivo bar arrived with a bang on Willis Street, instantly carving its own niche. The space evolves organically through the day: espresso and casual snacks in the morning, moving into light plates and drinks as the day winds on. The decor is unpretentious, the energy easy and smart. It’s ideal for transitioning from work-lunch to after-work drinks without changing venue. If you like that ‘half-coffee/half-cocktail’ rhythm in a comfortable setting, Amuse is a worthy stop.

In one of the most talked-about moves of the year, Vietnamese-French favourite Apache relocated to a spacious new spot on Tory Street after more than a decade in its famed Wakefield Street home. The new space seamlessly carries over the essence of the brand: Vietnamese street food influences, French-inspired touches, and robust social dining energy. If you were already an Apache loyalist, this move gives plenty of reason to revisit - don’t forget to bring a group.

The electric Cuba St Tavern takes over the spot formerly held by Olive, and captures both the sociable pub vibe and a strong culinary backbone. The bar and kitchen blend craft beers, wines, cocktails, and well-executed food. Thankfully, the secret garden courtyard has been retained, and the venue deftly strikes that difficult balance: lively and accessible, yet with enough thought in the food and drink to feel worthy of a night out. Whether you’re after brunch, a quick drink, or a full dinner, the Tavern has you covered.

From four baristas with competition credentials emerges a cafe that prizes craft, story, and approachability. Sketchbook Coffee is not just about great beans; it’s a space that feels inclusive and prepared. Filter, pour-over, specialty roasts that rotate every two months, the details are there. But the tone remains warm: come as you are, stay as long as you like. If your ideal cafe serves both precision and personality, Sketchbook is well worth the visit.

The rapidly growing bakery/brunch outfit Völco has now landed at Egmont Street, bringing its warm fitout and reliable offering to a new corner of the city. Think sourdough-led bakery, inventive brunch plates inspired by restaurant kitchens, and a cafe where you’re encouraged to linger. The Egmont Street iteration invites a comfortable, calm morning or lunchtime away from the bustle.

For beer lovers and social diners alike, Garage Project’s new spot on Leeds Street presents a welcome central city addition, taking over the mantle of the previous occupants, Fortune Favours. The original Garage Project permeates throughout, with the new location adding a more expansive space for taps and that laid-back meet-up vibe. Whether you’re after experimental brews or a relaxed drink with friends, the Leeds Street outpost has you covered.

The beloved cafe-deli, Sixes & Sevens, has stepped into a brighter and more spacious home, just a brisk stroll down from its former home. Known for their excellent coffee, cabinet food, and indulgent treats (their doughnuts are among the most desired in town), the new location signals a refinement of what the brand does best: eat, drink, browse, linger.

A compact newcomer with a focused mission, Dilly Dally presents itself as a lunch destination built on freshness, craft, and calm. Think salads built around pickled and homemade elements, smoothies with adventurous ingredients (turmeric, blue spirulina, maple), and a space that invites you to slow down, even if just for half an hour. If your lunch craving leans healthy and creative rather than fast and rushed, don’t dilly dally and head to this charismatic new opening.