Quirkiest Restaurants in NZ

Little Beer Quarter is an eclectic and charming dining spot in the vibrant Edward St Precinct of Wellington. Boasting 12 taps, 2 hand-pulls, and 1 nitro tap, it offers a rotating selection of over 100 beers, ciders, and wines from both local and international producers. What sets LBQ apart is its comforting menu, featuring various burger options like vegan fried chicken, and artisanal pizzas. Don't miss out on their daily $15 lunches from 12-3pm, which include a variety of burgers, salads, and margarita pizzas. Adding to Little Beer Quarter’s quirky charm, the "Cigarro" room provides a sheltered and cozy spot for smokers.

Circus Circus is an iconic cafe in Auckland, beloved for its vintage circus motif and eclectic menu offerings. Since 1995, they’ve been serving up cafe food sourced locally, coffee, and desserts. Join them for breakfast, brunch, or lunch and indulge in their diverse range of dishes like chicken livers with pan-fried mushrooms or a king salmon bagel, all made in-house with love.

Perched on Auckland's Westhaven Marina, Swashbucklers Restaurant & Bar offers a unique maritime adventure. Begin with succulent mussels and flavourful shrimp cocktails before digging into a fresh John Dory pan-fried in garlic or baked Snapper. But it's not just the food; it's the ambiance. Whether you're in the main restaurant, the Boatshed Bar, or soaking up the sun on the deck, their love for fresh seafood experiences shines through. And for the little ones, Swashbucklers offers a fun pirate-themed menu!

Ghost Donkey is an undeniably vibrant Mexican-inspired tequila and mezcal bar. Their menu boasts an array of mouthwatering Mexican dishes from fried chicken to zesty jalapeno poppers and refreshing ceviche. But it's the tacos that steal the show, with fillings like chipotle jackfruit, spiced pork, braised lamb, and slow-cooked beef brisket. Wash it all down with one of their unique cocktails, like the Ghost Donkey Horchata, featuring Spiced Rum, Aged Tequila, Hazelnut Liqueur, Cinnamon, Vanilla, and Sweetened Milk. Prepare for mucho good times at Ghost Donkey!

You’re in for a dining experience unlike any other aboard New Zealand's only restaurant tramcar in Christchurch. Glide through the city's inner streets in the lap of luxury aboard the 36-seater, air-conditioned heritage tram while enjoying fine-dining premium local cuisine and beverages. This unique and quirky dining adventure blends the old with the new, offering a vibrant mix of the city's history and modern charm.

Perched on Level 3 of QT Wellington, Hippopotamus Restaurant & Cocktail Bar offers old-world charm blended with modern flair, where plush textures and vibrant colours create a whimsical atmosphere. Cocktails are served under glittering chandeliers, and breakfast options range from filling buffets to à la carte favourites. A quirky blend of classic French technique with local New Zealand produce truly sets Hippopotamus apart.

Satya Chai Lounge is a vibrant destination fusing Indian street food, craft beers, and cocktails. Boasting an impressive selection of over 220 beers, it's acclaimed as one of New Zealand's top restaurants. Drawing inspiration from India’s bustling nature, the ambiance exudes warmth and character with rustic wooden planks, rich rugs, and hessian coffee sacks. Enjoy delicious Indian classics like dahi puri, innovative kurryaage chicken, and slow-cooked lamb nukkad.