Wellington’s Favourite Neighbourhood Spots

As one of Wellington’s favourite homegrown breweries, Parrotdog is a truly local success story and a popular haunt for Lyall Bay residents. Barely a few steps from the beach, it’s a fantastic place to kick back, no matter the weather, and indulge in the 17 revolving taps showcasing the Parrotdog range (among others). The food menu is also unmissable, with its range of burgers, small bites and more.

Standing at the heart of Hataitai, both geographically and figuratively, BambuchiSan is perhaps the trendy suburb’s most frequented restaurant. Boasting a long and storied history, BambuchiSan now serves fantastic neo-Japanese fare in its intimate yet spacious venue, with its main dining room complemented by a courtyard and a private room. The menu is designed for sharing, so tuck into a broad selection, and don’t forget to check out the blackboard specials.

Great coffee can be found literally anywhere in Wellington, and Peoples Coffee in Newtown is living proof of just that. Thriving with energy all throughout the ta, the café really shines on the weekends, when people from all walks of life convene here for chats and cappuccinos in equal measure. With its clean, no-nonsense f, it’s a great place to pick up a coffee whether you’re on the go or want to sit inside a while.

An intimate little space with an ever-changing menu of mouth-watering treats, Aro Valley’s Rita might just be the most charming restaurant in Wellington. It’s a perfect spot in the suburbs for a romantic date or a dinner with your closest friends (after all, the largest table they have seats just six). And no need to research the menu beforehand - a new three-course meal is served each day that’s guaranteed to impress.

Porirua’s t bay café is a great example of what can be achieved when locals put in the work to bring a vision to life. Replacing a library that used to occupy its spot, the café is now a popular brunch spot for the people of Tītahi Bay and its surrounds, with the deck and beer garden out the back making the most of the region’s sunny afternoons.

Berhampore is always a delight to visit, largely due to its many hospo gems such as Baker Gramercy. The bakery is small but more than packs a punch, drawing crowds from across the city on the four days a week it’s open. Make sure you pack a sourdough loaf or two to go, and don’t miss out on the croissants.

Bringing colour and warm customer service in equal measure to Island Bay, it’s no wonder why Betsy is one of the neighbourhood’s favourite spots. The crew are on a first-name basis with most visitors and the cabinet is always chocka with savoury and sweet treats, making it the perfect place to stop while you’re hanging around the bay. Best of all, it’s an incredibly dog-friendly space, so bring your pet along for the ride.

Perhaps the most revered name in Brooklyn hospitality, the Salty Pidgin is a favourite gathering place for the people of this fine suburb. Perched at the top of a slope at the heart of Brooklyn, the bistro occupies a commanding spot that symbolises its hold on the locals. It’s certainly a welcoming spot for everyone, whether you just want a beer with some bar snacks on the side or want to explore the fulsome dinner menu.

Home to Wellington’s world-renowned film industry, Miramar is no stranger to the spectacular - as can be seen in one of its favourite restaurants, The Larder. A dedicated proponent of the art of nose-to-tail dining, the menu features some truly unique creations - think crumbed lambs’ brains, a divine paua and prawn risotto, and more.