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Top 10 Restaurants Wellington

Published 09/03/2024

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.

Kisa
195 Cuba Street, Te Aro

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.
Rita
89 Aro Street, Aro Valley

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.
Apache
66 Tory St Wellington, Te Aro

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.
Boulcott Street Bistro
99 Boulcott Street, Wellington CBD

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.
Hippo Bar and Restaurant
90 Cable Street, QT Lobby, L3, Te Aro

Hippo plays refined dining with a wink, pairing New Zealand produce with subtle French touches and a good dose of personality. Upstairs in Te Aro, velvet-clad interiors and a lift arrival set the scene, with Wellington Harbour glittering beyond. Steak frites, Wairarapa vegetables, oysters served au naturel and dark chocolate profiteroles show the kitchen’s range, while inventive cocktails, martinis and a serious wine list keep the glasses full. Polished without pretence, it suits after-work drinks, pre-theatre suppers, weekend high tea and long, indulgent lunches.
Logan Brown Restaurant
192 Cuba Street, Te Aro

It's perfect for tasting beautiful New Zealand ingredients cooked to perfection

You need to try the signature dish of Paua Ravioli

Look out for beautiful architectural features of the historically listed banking chamber dining room

Experience the essence of New Zealand cuisine and hospitality at Logan Brown, located in a former bank, a stunning backdrop for any special event. Since its inception in 1996, this Cuba Street gem has epitomised contemporary Kiwi cooking, evolving with dining trends while maintaining its authentic charm. Guests are welcomed with warm hospitality and treated to impeccably cooked ingredients sourced from local producers. Logan Brown's commitment to sustainability is evident in its sourcing of locally sustainable produce and rigorous recycling practices. With a passion for community and environment, Logan Brown offers a genuine taste of New Zealand.

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Margot
163 Riddiford Street, Newtown

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.
Charley Noble
1 Post Office Square, Ground Huddart Parker Building, Wellington CBD

Charley 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.
Shed 5
Queens Wharf, Wellington CBD

Shed 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
Ombra
199 Cuba Street, Te Aro

Ombra, 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.