Lyall Bay's Line-Up of Eats

At The Botanist, it’s all about bright, plant-based plates that don’t miss a beat. The Banana Blossom Curry is a standout: fragrant green curry wrapped around delicately battered banana blossom, with pops of sugar snap peas and a fresh Vietnamese mint and coriander salad cutting through the richness. Shaved coconut brings it all together, adding just enough sweetness to keep you going back for another spoonful.

Maranui Cafe has long been the beating heart of Lyall Bay, and the Houghton Bay Bowl sums up why. It’s generous without being over the top: grilled broccolini, a perfectly poached egg, and a base of sauteed chorizo, potatoes, and spinach. Harissa and hummus bring warmth and depth, while a sprinkle of dukkah adds texture. Best enjoyed with a post-swim appetite.

Beer and a burger is a classic pairing, but Parrotdog Brewery sharpens things up with its own rendition of the unbeatable chicken burger. Think crispy fried chicken layered with honey mustard mayo, shaved lettuce, and bread & butter pickles, all tucked into a soft bun. It’s simple, satisfying, and exactly what you want alongside a cold pint after a windy Wellington day.

There’s a playful, slightly offbeat charm to Queen Sally's Diamond Deli, and this twist on a timeless brunch favourite captures it perfectly. Creamy avocado meets tangy sauerkraut and vegan feta, piled onto spelt or seeded bread, then finished with a savoury granola for crunch. In keeping with the spirit of this quintessentially Lyall Bat spot, it’s fresh and textured, packing just the right amount of surprise.

Having taken over the former Spruce Goose site, Hotel Catalina brings something fresh while paying homage to the neighbourhood’s intrinsic seaside culture. That means the classic fish and chips is a go-to at this versatile eatery. The golden fillets of tarakihi or snapper come with chunky fries, tartare, lemon, and a bitter leaf salad to cut through it all. Pair with a sea view and endlessly chill vibes.

Puku Pies is fast making a name for itself, and it’s easy to see why. This revered Kiwi staple is best not tinkered with, but the team of Puku get it just right, adding touches that impress rather than distract. The Jalapeño Beef Brisket pie is a great example: rich, slow-cooked, and packing just the right amount of heat. Wrapped in flaky pastry, it’s the kind of handheld comfort that feels tailor-made for a brisk and breezy Lyall Bay afternoon.

No frills, no shortcuts - Seaview Takeaways is all about doing the classics right, thanks to Vicky Shen, who has been running the business for more than 30 years. And while their chicken burger seems to have gained a cult following (many call it the best ever), it’s apt that their fish burger is among the pick of the bunch. Think big, chunky fillets sitting on a lush bed of lettuce in a soft bun - it’s affordable, no-nonsense goodness. Add some crispy fries for the complete beachside meal.

In a city renowned for its cheese scones, this coffee and ice cream shack whips up what many consider to be the best in town. Made using the original recipe from the spot’s previous owner, Ange, the scones here add a fiery kick that will warm you up even on a cold winter’s day. Pair with a hot Karamu coffee, and treat yourself afterwards with a real fruit ice cream.