There are countless amazing places to choose from, but as a Wellingtonian I've narrowed down fifteen of my personal faves that I regularly frequent and highly recommend for a memorable foodie experience in the capital city.
La Bella Italia
If you love authentic Italian cuisine then don't miss Bella Italia in Petone. It has been awarded one of the 70 best Pizzerias in the World, and it's the only Italian restaurant I've been to outside of Italy that is just as delicious and amazing.
It's my husband and I's favourite restaurant in Wellington and we love their pasta dishes (especially the lasagne and risotto), but nowadays we usually opt for their rustica calzone (pictured) to share and then indulge in a gelato or tiramisu for dessert. They also sell many imported pastas, pantry items, fresh deli, cheeses, baked goods and desserts, it's basically an Italian haven.
Location: 10 Nevis Street, Petone
Fix and Fog
Fix and Fog is a bit of a hidden gem, but totally worth going on the hunt for. You can find their window down the Leeds Street laneway, and to the side on Eva Street. Famously known as the best nut butter in the world (and made right here in Wellington), they serve up extraordinary slices of peanut butter themed toast, granola, porridge, smoothies and more. If you like your peanut butter - it's a must-try!
Location: 5 Eva Street, Wellington CBD
Egmont Street Eatery
Egmont Street Eatery is an all-rounder, great for a hearty weekend brunch, a special dinner or after-work drink hangs. They have a modern, trendy vibe, a seasonal menu and do great coffee too.
Location: 11 Egmont Street, Wellington CBD
Gorilla Burger
If you're craving an epic burger, look no further than Gorilla Burger. Their Leeds Street location is right next to Fortune Favours Brewery and is perfect to grab after a pint (or three). Whether you're wanting a giant feast of a burger or something vegan, their menu will impress.
Location: 7 Leeds Street, Wellington CBD and 19 Park Road, Miramar
Fidel's Cafe
Fidel's is an iconic Wellington cafe known for its Cuban coffee, homestyle eats, midday brunches and late-night rums. Located on upper Cuba Street, it oozes Bohemian vibes and Kiwi hospitality. Don't miss their famous snickers milkshake!
Location: 234 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD
Duck Island Ice Cream
For the best ice cream in Wellington, head to Duck Island on Cuba Street. It's the popular New Zealand brand's latest location. There have 24 incredible flavours to choose from and don't be surprised if there's a line snaking all the way out of the door. (The peanut butter cookie flavour is the bomb!).
Location: 168 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD
Chocolate Fish Cafe
Chocolate Fish Cafe is a Wellington favourite, with the perfect waterfront spot. It's located in Shelly Bay, close to the Wellington Airport and only a 15-minute drive from the CBD. It's a great place for lunch on a sunny day, with an abundance of outdoor seating and great views of the Wellington harbour.
Location: 100 Shelly Bay Road, Shelly Bay
Logan Brown
For a special occasion or those who don't mind a splurge, Logan Brown is a popular choice for a memorable foodie experience. The fine-dining establishment is one of Wellington's top-awarded restaurants. I highly recommend the Saturday night Degustation Menu with either the five or seven-course menu with the wine pairing. It's a meal you soon won't forget.
Location: 192 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD
Small but popular, Leeds Street Bakery are famous for their epic salted caramel cookies, which are a must-try in Wellington. They also do great coffee, bake organic sourdough bread, amazing pies, and other delicious baked goods.
Location: 14 Leeds Street, Wellington CBD
Another great cafe and restaurant is Floriditas on Cuba Street. They have a fresh seasonal menu and are famous for their incredible brunches and beautiful healthy salads.
Leeds Street Bakery
Small but popular, Leeds Street Bakery are famous for their epic salted caramel cookies, which are a must-try in Wellington. They also do great coffee, bake organic sourdough bread, amazing pies, and other delicious baked goods.
Floriditas
Location: 161 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD
Hot Sauce
Hot Sauce serves up high-quality food and unique cocktails with an Asian flair. They have an incredible decor, and do delicious baos, dumplings, popcorn chicken and more.
Location: 90 Cable Street, Wellington CBD
Little Penang
For something more on the budget-friendly side, Little Penang is a Wellington favourite, serving up tasty and authentic Malaysian dishes. Their mee goreng, char koay teow and classic curries with roti are my go-to faves.
Location: 175 Victoria Street and 44 The Terrace, Wellington CBD
Havana Bar
Havana Bar is known as a popular venue for a drink, with fun live music and trendy cocktails, but the food is outrageously good too. Located in two historic cottages, the Cuban-themed bar and restaurant have stellar menus for lunch, dinner, tapas and brunch.
Location: 34 Wigan Street, Wellington CBD
Seashore Cabaret
Location: 160 The Esplanade, Petone
Dragons
For the best Yum Cha in Wellington, head to Dragons restaurant on Tory Street. It's fast-paced, and they serve high-quality and authentic Cantonese food. They're extremely popular for lunch on the weekends so be sure to book in advance. If they are fully booked, I highly recommend Regal on Courtenay Place as well.
Location: 25 Tory Street, Wellington CBD
A few extra bonus faves:Favourite Vietnamese food: Restaurant 88, Where's Charlie?
Favourite place for a takeaway coffee: Cafe L'affare
Favourite fish & chips: Mt Vic Chippery
Favourite bakeries: Gramercy, Goods Cafe, Bordeaux
Favourite bakeries: Gramercy, Goods Cafe, Bordeaux
Favourite places for a cocktail: The Library, Dragonfly, Foxglove, Havana Bar
Favourite Indian food: Great India
Favourite Indian food: Great India
Favourite for High Tea: Hippopotamus
Favourite places for a beer: Fortune Favours, LBQ, Southern Cross, Panhead, Meow
Favourite places for a beer: Fortune Favours, LBQ, Southern Cross, Panhead, Meow
Do you have any of your own faves to add to this list? Let me know in the comments below, I'd love to read them and check them out!
Happy Eating,
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