Whirlwind of Taste: Wellington's Top 10 Restaurants Setting the Standard
Join Best Restaurants as we guide you through Wellington's top restaurants. Whether you're indulging in contemporary fine dining Kiwi cuisine or enjoying rustic, European-inspired share plates, these establishments offer a culinary experience like no other. So come along as we uncover the best-kept dining secrets of Wellington.
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Kisa captures diners' attention with its enchanting blend of Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours. The menu, boasts an impressive array of mezze plates and hearty dishes such as velvety smoked eggplant moutabel, and succulent shawarma spiced lamb shoulder. Kisa does not skimp when it comes to flavour and quality, using only the best local ingredients. And let's not forget the crispy fried Brussels sprouts – a delightful and crunchy treat.Read more -
Tucked away in a quaint 100-year-old worker's cottage lies Rita, an exclusive reservation-only restaurant. With its innovative 'trust us' concept, you never know what to expect, but you know it will be good! Each evening, the talented chefs craft a brand-new three-course menu, featuring items such as succulent duck breast with almond sauce or grilled Albacore tuna with tomatillo salsa.Read more -
Apache fuses Vietnamese street food with French sophistication. The menu showcases a delightful array of dishes crafted with high-quality ingredients, from slow-cooked Wagyu brisket to crispy popcorn chicken and fragrant seafood curry. The communal dining experience for your table is reminiscent of the bustling streets of Hanoi, whilst larger groups can enjoy set banquet menus. Don’t forget to order a classic Vietnamese coffee or salted lemonade to add a final authentic touch to your meal.Read more -
Since 1991, Boulcott Street Bistro & Wine Bar has been serving innovative French bistro dishes in a cozy heritage cottage. The beverage list features New Zealand wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Highlights from the menu include aged fillet of beef with Béarnaise sauce, crème brûlée, poached market fish, chicken rotolo, and duck, pork, and pistachio terrine.Read more -
Hippopotamus brings together Parisian chic and Wellington's warmth, offering a delightful blend of cosmopolitan flair and local charm. Treat yourself to Champagne high tea featuring sweet and savoury treats like hazelnut dacquoise and smoked salmon tartine. For breakfast, the menu has classics like smashed avocado or comforting eggs benedict.Read more -
It's perfect for tasting beautiful New Zealand ingredients cooked to perfectionYou need to try the signature dish of Paua RavioliLook out for beautiful architectural features of the historically listed banking chamber dining roomHippopotamus brings together Parisian chic and Wellington's warmth, offering a delightful blend of cosmopolitan flair and local charm. Treat yourself to Champagne high tea featuring sweet and savoury treats like hazelnut dacquoise and smoked salmon tartine. For breakfast, the menu has classics like smashed avocado or comforting eggs benedict.Read more -
7. Egmont Street Eatery
11 Egmont Street, Te AroAt Egmont Street, the food menu constantly evolves, offering thoughtful, local, and seasonal dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends. Enjoy modern twists on breakfast classics during the day and flavourful dishes at dinner, with a few favourites being the potato gnocchi, snapper carpaccio, and sirloin steak with béarnaise sauce and fries. Uniquely curated cocktails, local craft beer, and an impressive wine list are available to complement your meal. -
Margot, a cozy blend of restaurant and wine bar, champions local produce with rustic, European-inspired share plates. The intimate 26-seater space offers a menu that changes often, highlighting organic produce in simple yet delicious ways. From the indulgent steak tartare to the refreshing raw fish, Margot brings the flavours of Europe and Aotearoa to your plate. Vegetarians will also find exciting options reimagining produce in delightful ways.Read more -
Read moreCharley Noble is a casual award winning eatery in downtown Wellington. Featuring an open woodfire kitchen, the restaurant produces a smoky flavour in locally sourced meats, seafood and vegetables. This is a perfect venue to savour NZ cuisine. There is a separate gluten free menu, bound to please with ample choices.
Lunch Wednesday-Friday and dinner Monday-Saturday
Photography: Courtesy of Charley Noble Restaurant -
Read moreShed 5 stands as an esteemed waterfront destination, renowned for its seafood-centric menu and picturesque views of Wellington Harbour. Housed within one of Lambton Harbour's oldest wharf stores, the restaurant exudes historic charm and offers a warm ambiance for diners to enjoy. Originally constructed in 1887, Shed 5 holds a rich legacy as a vital hub for Wellington's early economy. Today, it continues its storied tradition, serving as a beacon of culinary excellence since the opening of Shed 5 restaurant in 1992. With a focus on locally sourced seafood, our menu boasts an array of fresh catches from New Zealand's pristine waters.
Photography: Courtesy of Shed 5