Dine Around the World in Central Wellington

Occupying a cosy spot among the Tory Street row of eateries, Damascus serves authentic Syrian family recipes passed down through generations. It’s a wonderful setting for dining, with the pale-blue walls, arch-shaped shelves, and filigree lighting echoing Middle Eastern charm. Start with some mezze plates, the hummus is to die for, especially mopped up with freshly baked flatbreads. The menu is packed with smoky, juicy meat and vegetarian dishes, and a tempting dessert selection (the busa ice cream is a must-try) to round off the meal.

This homely trattoria on Blair Street evokes a rustic Italian kitchen, think wooden tables, soft lighting, and dishes crafted around classic Neapolitan tradition. The menu, unsurprisingly, is a comprehensive celebration of Italian cuisine, boasting hand-rolled pastas drenched in creamy sauces, slow-cooked lamb shanks, and more. The wine list, carefully curated from boutique Italian producers, elevates the experience. Save room for their tiramisu, which is made following a family recipe that’s been handed down, unchanged, through generations.

The go-to yum cha spot for scores of Wellingtonian families, Dragons gets absolutely packed on weekends, so make sure you book in advance. In keeping with how Chinese cuisine is meant to be enjoyed, Dragons is all about punchy flavours, generous portions, and good memories shared over food. The menu covers all bases, from steamed dumplings bursting with pork or vegetables, to wok-tossed seasonal veggies and sumptuous meat and fish dishes. Ideal for dates, group outings, and everything in between.

Wellington knows how to do Asian fusion well, with Hideout being one such proponent. Situated in the heart of Courtenay Place, this fun, fresh fusion spot serves up flavoursome Asian dishes alongside cocktails that pack a punch. A diverse menu gives you plenty of options, from small bites to dumplings, bao buns, and larger rice and noodle dishes. Bring a crowd and sample as many flavours as you can.

Located within the iconic Circa Theatre, a meal at Chouchou is certainly worthy of a standing ovation. Stop by for a taste of Paris right on Wellington’s waterfront, whether it’s buttery croissants, classy cocktails, or a hearty steak with frites you’re into. As an all-day venue, it’s an ideal breakfast, lunch, or dinner spot no matter the occasion, and being part of a working theatre means you’re wrapped up with all the chaos and colour that comes with it.

Says it on the tin, really: the food here is hot (be prepared) and made by a team of passionate Mexicans. It’s a compact little outfit found in Willis Lane and pretty no-frills, but that’s because they’re absolutely focused on whipping up some of the best Mexican classics you’ll find in Wellington. Nothing more, nothing less. If you’re keen for a fix of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or just a big old bowl of nachos, with plenty of spice, this is the place to go.

Upstairs on Courtenay in a dimly lit spot, Kazu offers an authentic izakaya experience, where you can sit at the counter and watch the skewers sizzle over hot coals. Their yakitori chicken, pork belly, vegetables, and more, is wonderfully smoky and is glazed with deeply flavoured tare sauce. Additional delights include tonkotsu garlic ramen, aburi salmon, and Japanese curry on Tuesdays. A drum signals your arrival at the bar, and a lively atmosphere ensures no evening is dull.

Perhaps one of the most underrated Asian restaurants in Wellington, Indian Alley serves the bold, comforting flavours of India in a vibrant, family-run setting. A welcoming atmosphere is paired with a huge menu that caters to all tastes, covering all the Indian favourites as well as some house specialties. The parda biryani, a biryani dish that is sealed with dough then cooked to lock in all the flavours, is an absolute must-have. A comprehensive cocktail list, some with an Indian twist, ensures your visit will truly be memorable.

An Argentinian bakery is something most Wellingtonians didn’t know they needed, but they’re sure grateful they have one now. With stores on both Manners Street and The Terrace, you can get your medialuna, alfajor, or cañoncito fix no matter which end of town you’re on. Grab a coffee to dunk your sweet treat in, and don’t forget to check out the savoury range too... chicken empanadas, anyone?

After a decade on Wakefield Street, Apache has found a new home on Tory Street without losing its signature buzz. This Vietnamese-inspired favourite brings bold, street food–inspired flavours to a lively, social setting where shared plates, clinking glasses, and colourful surroundings set the tone. The menu balances punchy and refined, from golden Imperial pork rolls to seared yellowfin tuna, Shaking Beef, and the indulgent Sea Meets Land, with desserts like black rice pudding and the playful Broken Leaves sealing the deal. Retaining the vibrancy of its original spot but with more space and energy, Apache offers polished yet unpretentious dining perfect for nights that linger well past dinner.