Dinner and a Show: Where to Eat, Drink, and Be Entertained in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct

BATS Theatre is the heart of Wellington’s alternative performance scene, where you’ll find everything from fresh, experimental work to laugh-out-loud improv comedy. Known as the place to get up close to New Zealand’s next generation of performers, writers, directors and designers, this local treasure has been the spark that lit the careers of many household names. Whether you're in for a bit of physical theatre, sharp satire or intimate storytelling, the lineup at BATS will always keep you on your toes. 

Just around the corner and tucked up an inconspicuous flight of stairs – Kazu Yakitori & Sake Bar is a well-kept secret gem. Small, lively and full of charm, you’ll find steaming bowls of tonkotsu ramen, yakitori hot off the grill, plus sake and beer towers aplenty. Slide into a cosy nook or grab a seat on the balcony, with an unrivalled birds-eye view of Courtenay Place below.

If you’re after a night of old-school cinematic charm, the Embassy delivers it in spades. This grand theatre has been a Wellington landmark since 1924, screening everything from big-name blockbusters to indie gems. The art deco architecture and vintage touches give the whole place a timeless feel – an ode to the golden age of cinema. 

Just one door over, Capitol nails the balance between classy and relaxed. Regularly ranked among Wellington’s finest, this family-run restaurant has been a local favourite since 2002, using the best of the city’s seafood and produce to create fresh, uncluttered seasonal menus. Whether you’re in for a quick pre-film bite or a leisurely post-screening dinner, Capitol’s understated elegance and thoughtful dishes invite visitors to slow down and savour.

For those after something a bit more offbeat, Fringe Bar is the place to go for a night of high-energy, anything-goes entertainment. From drag shows to stand-up, burlesque or karaoke – patrons are welcome to sit back and enjoy or get in on the action themselves. Bursting with infectious energy and proudly unpolished charm, it’s a great way to kick off or wrap up your night on a high.

To keep the good times rolling, head down the road to the Welsh Dragon – an unassuming pub with serious character tucked away on its own little island on Cambridge Terrace. Known as (allegedly) the only Welsh pub in the Southern Hemisphere, it has all the ingredients for a great night – great brews, roaring fire, hearty meals, and a quaint little beer garden perfect for some fresh air. Locals love the rowdy pub quizzes or fortnightly shanty singing, and rumour has it even the odd British DJ royalty has been known to stop by.

The iconic St James Theatre is the crown jewel of Wellington’s performing arts scene. Home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet, this beautifully restored 1912 venue is the perfect setting for an evening of opera, dance, and musicals – fit for theatre lovers of any taste. Complete with velvet drapes, gilded lyres and dancing cherubs, this stunning historic building has enough character to make any performance feel like a step back in time.

For a meal that matches the drama, head over to Dragonfly, just a quick stroll away. With its relaxed atmosphere and gorgeous setting, this Asian-fusion restaurant is sophisticated and chic, excellent for a pre-show dinner or a post-show nightcap. Expect a selection of classic Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist – a delicious bookend to close out the evening.