6 Romantic Restaurants in Wellington for Cosy Dinners

With its low, moody lighting and warm hospitality, Logan Brown Restaurant is a perfect choice for a romantic evening. Encompassing the essence of New Zealand cuisine, with its locally sourced ingredients, Logan Brown delights guests with high-quality dishes such as the signature Paua Ravioli. The restaurant exudes a historical charm, nestled into an old banking chamber with Romanesque columns and archways kissed by the warm light of the bold chandelier. Talk about romantic! 

Tucked into the heart of Cuba Street, Liberty Restaurant exudes a romantic essence with its flavour-packed sharing dishes. Their dishes use local New Zealand ingredients but are inspired by a range of cultures across the world, delivering versatility within an urban setting, such as Mediterranean, Asian, and seafood. Start your evening by sampling nibbles and sipping from the extensive wine menu, before indulging in the grilled octopus. Bursting with flavour and a warm atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed by Liberty Restaurant for your next date night.  

Soak in the sunset and the views of the city as you perch on the balcony of this rooftop bar and restaurant. With its vibrant atmosphere and creative culinary delights, The Arborist is a high contender for one of the best romantic restaurants in Wellington. There’s lush greenery, a variety of seating options from relaxed couches to barstools, and a menu that caters to lots of dietary requirements. Tap along to the live music, sip on the innovative cocktails and happy hour slushies, and dig into their range of flavourful sharing platters — perfect conditions for a date night!  

Candlelit tables, warm ambience, bold street mural walls, and flavour-packed quesadillas and tacos, Mexico Wellington oozes with energy and is a thrilling place for your next romantic dinner out. Mexico Wellington whisks guests away to the bustling street food scene of Mexico, delivering community and personality, without compromising on quality food and drinks. Sample their range of tequila, or sip on their signature Frida’s Margaritas before tucking into their extensive menu that includes sharing platters. Don’t forget to end this vibrant evening with a perfectly sweet churro! 

Unravelling panoramic views of Lambton Harbour, this Italian restaurant in the heart of the city delivers a romantic essence. Blending Northern Italian influences with fresh New Zealand ingredients, Portofino’s menu of pasta, pizza, antipasto, and wine will warm you from the inside out. There is nothing more romantic than an evening whisked off into the sun-soaked region of northern Italy, where wine flows, golden sun shines, and flavours sing. Portofino Wellington is a family-owned spot hoisted above the city, passionate about abundant wine, friendly hospitality, and a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere — a magical choice for your next date night in Wellington. 

Considered the ultimate craft beer haven, Little Beer Quarter has a charming energy for a cosy winter date night in Wellington. Cosy up in the street-side seating next to outdoor heaters or nestle into the warm and moody ambience of the indoor dining suite and take your time sampling their extensive craft beer menu. Little Beer Quarter is rich with 12 rotating taps, 2 hand-pulls, and an abundant selection of over 100 beers, ciders, and wines. So, even if one of you isn’t a fan of beer, there will be something you can enjoy sipping. You also won’t go hungry with their pizzas, burgers, and other gourmet pub dishes. With its bright yellow outdoor wall, barnyard shutters, brick accents and greenery, Little Beer Quarter has a casual yet colourful charm for a memorable and laidback romantic dinner.