Te Ngākau Precinct After Dark

An all-day snack bar that blends European aperitivo with Australasian coffee culture, Amuse is a cosy little spot that’s just as welcoming after hours as it is first thing in the morning. Dive into the delectable sharing plates that are perfect for mixing and matching, depending on your mood, though the jambon beurre baguette is hard to pass by, no matter the occasion. Grab a cocktail to pair with the bites, or even a long black if you’re in for a long night, unlike other cafes, the coffee machine stays grinding away well into the evening.

Bond Street is full of surprises, and Fork & Brewer is a beer lover’s dream, with 42 taps pouring everything from crisp lagers to bold stouts, many brewed on site in their 1,000-litre brewery. The lofty, open-plan space hums with the chatter of after-work groups and weekend regulars. The kitchen serves hearty pub classics with a twist, designed to complement whatever’s in your glass. There’s always something new to try, thanks to rotating seasonal brews and guest taps. It’s a place that rewards both the beer curious and the die-hard aficionados.

Without a doubt, one of the city’s top laneways, you can spend an entire evening on the charismatic Edward Street, boogying long into the night. Tatsushi offers a quiet escape to start the night, with fresh sashimi and delicate Japanese plates crafted with care, the perfect spot to ease into the evening. Little Beer Quarter is one of Wellington’s most loved craft beer spots, pouring an ever-changing selection alongside pizzas and hearty burgers. Then head to Meow, the legendary live music venue, where you can work off the calories to the backdrop of an always-packed calendar of fine homegrown talent.

The Green Man is all about classic pub comfort, from its unashamedly Irish energy to the spacious and numerous seating options available within. With its easygoing charm, it’s perfect for catching up with friends over a pint, settling in for a full meal, or a quick bite before kicking off a night on the town. The drinks list covers everything from local ales to well-made cocktails, and the kitchen turns out generous, crowd-pleasing plates. They also happen to run one of Wellington’s best quiz nights. What’s not to love?

An intimate setting perched upstairs with a view over Victoria Street, WBC offers a dining experience that feels both elevated and approachable. The menu takes cues from Asian flavours, featuring dishes like Goan raw fish curry and duck leg massaman. The art deco touches give the room a sense of occasion without pretension, and coupled with warm and attentive service, it’s a solid choice for a date night or a special gathering.

The classy Highwater Eatery blends sophistication with an unpretentious charm, making it a top pick for an evening outing. The open kitchen with its Spanish charcoal oven set the stage for exquisite seasonal dishes that balance creativity with comfort. Wines are carefully curated to match the food, and their early-evening ‘pickup menu’ offers excellent value without compromising quality. Park up by the bar or on the intimate row of tables by the wall, and let the conversations flow into the night.

Cin Cin brings a warm, Italian energy to the precinct, the kind that makes you want to order one more round just to keep the evening going. The menu leans into generosity, big sharing plates, wood-fired pizzas, and handmade pastas that hit all the right notes. The fit-out mixes rustic charm with polished touches, creating an atmosphere that works as well for date night as it does for a group celebration. And with the waterfront in one direction and Cuba Street and Courtenay Place in the other, it’s the perfect place to start a night to remember.

There are few things like a bowl of pho to warm up a cool Wellington night, and Saigon Delights brings fresh, aromatic Vietnamese flavours to the heart of the precinct. Evening service starts at five, with a happy hour early in the week to set the night in motion. The menu celebrates local ingredients while staying true to Vietnamese staples like pho, vermicelli salads, and fragrant curries. The space is casual and comfortable, perfect for a quick bite before a show or a leisurely dinner.