The Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Wellington
Mediterranean food is designed for sharing, celebrating, and savouring and Wellington has embraced that spirit with open arms. From buzzing tavernas where the energy is as vibrant as the food, to polished dining rooms that add a little modern elegance, the capital’s best Mediterranean restaurants bring sunshine to even the windiest of Wellington days.
On the menu, you’ll find grilled souvlaki and kebabs wrapped in pillowy pita, spinach-filled pastries like spanakopita or fatayer, and creamy dips from tzatziki to hummus that brighten any plate. Lamb and tender meats slow-cooked to melt-in-mouth perfection often steal the spotlight, while sweet finishes like honey-drenched baklava or syrupy revani balance rich, savoury depths.
Many Wellington venues lean deeply into tradition - Turkish meze platters, Greek classics, Syrian spices, Italian pastas, or fusion Middle Eastern delights - using recipes passed down through generations to serve dishes just like yiayia would make. Others take a more contemporary approach, reimagining old favourites with New Zealand’s seasonal produce while keeping the soul of the cuisine intact.
Where to Get The Best Mediterranean Food in Wellington?
What ties them all together is that classic Mediterranean hospitality: tables that invite lingering, laughter, and connection over generous platters. To make things easy, we’ve rounded up the very best Mediterranean restaurants in Wellington, where the food is big, the wine is flowing, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.
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Read moreOikos Hellenic Cuisine crafts rustic Greek soul in Wellington's Miramar, where owner Theo Papouis channels Cyprus family roots into shareable feasts. Wood-fired lamb kleftiko melts off the bone, golden saganaki sizzles with honeyed figs, and vibrant spanakopita bursts with feta-spinach bliss - paired with daily-picked NZ produce like juicy prawns and seasonal greens. Oikos' exclusive NZ wines cut through the richness, from crisp Assyrtikos to bold Agiorgitikos. Moody interiors glow with candlelight, perfect for intimate dinners, family gatherings or lingering over baklava and myths. As far as Greek restaurants in Wellington go - this place is an institution.
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Read moreKisa blends New Zealand produce with Middle Eastern flavours. Their diverse menu features an array of mezze and large plates, with abundant options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners. With a strong emphasis on New Zealand wine and beer, along with house-made sodas infused with Turkish influence, Kisa boasts a delightful beverage selection. The Josper Mangal grill infuses signature dishes like skewered meats and seafood with unmatched flavour. Kisa is the perfect spot for a unique dining experience in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Photography: Courtesy of Kisa
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Read moreDamascus brings the flavours of Syria to Wellington, celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients in every dish. Their journey began with humble beginnings—a gazebo, a few tables, and a pizza oven at local markets and festivals. Now, they offer their famous Habibi Sharing Plates every Tuesday, inviting diners to savour the Syrian way of sharing meals with loved ones. Located on Tory Street since September 2022, their permanent location continues to showcase their passion for authentic Syrian cuisine and their commitment to the Wellington community. Join Damascus and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Syrian flavours right here in New Zealand.
Photography: Courtesy of Damascus
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Read moreOmbra, nestled in Te Aro, Wellington, exudes charm. This Italian gem on 199 Cuba Street offers a taste of Venice with its rustic interior and house-made delights. From in-house crafted bread to delectable gnocchi, Indulge in Venetian-inspired cuisine like baccalà mantecato (salt cod mousse), polpetti (meatballs), and tiramisu. The warm, whitewashed ambiance, whether for a romantic evening or celebratory gathering, makes Ombra the go-to spot. Committed to creating memorable experiences, Ombra captures the essence of informal Italian dining in the heart of Wellington.
Photography: Courtesy of Ombra
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Read moreNestled in Wellington, Loretta offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience with a focus on thoughtfully sourced Mediterranean cuisine. Our wood fire oven creates comforting dishes that celebrate the richness of New Zealand produce. Whether it's brunch, dinner, or dessert, Loretta invites you to savour creative cocktails and a selection of New Zealand's finest beer and wine. Embrace community and hospitality in a relaxed setting perfect for social gatherings and memorable dining moments.
Photography: Courtesy of Loretta
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Mediterranean meets Middle Eastern: Rosella Wine Bar
18 Majoribanks St, Mount VictoriaRead morePhotography: Courtesy of Rosella Wine Bar