Wellington and the Wairarapa Restaurants
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Wellington and the Wairarapa - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.
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30 Recommendations
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1. Boulcott Street Bistro
$$$$ | |A well-respected institution on the Wellington dining scene, this old colonial-style house conveys tradition and class. The delightful bistro menu features long-standing dishes like the...
A well-respected institution on the Wellington dining scene, this old colonial-style house conveys tradition and class. The delightful bistro menu features long-standing dishes like the aged beef fillet with béarnaise sauce. The crème brûlée with poached seasonal fruit is a classic dessert that will satisfy the most discerning palate.
99 Boulcott St., Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-499–4199Known For
- Excellent wine selection
- Cozy intimate setting
- Simple yet well-rounded menu
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch Sat. and Sun. -
2. La Bella Italia
$$$ | Petone |On the otherwise sleepy Petone Wharf is a vibrant Italian trattoria, where prestigious awards, relics of family history, and shelves of the finest Italian ingredients...
On the otherwise sleepy Petone Wharf is a vibrant Italian trattoria, where prestigious awards, relics of family history, and shelves of the finest Italian ingredients cover the walls. This spot was awarded the prestigious Ospitalità Italiana quality-approved seal and is recognized as one of the top 70 Restaurants with Pizzeria in the World by Ristorazione Italiana.
10 Nevis St., Wellington, Wellington, 5012, New Zealand04-566–9303Known For
- The award-winning bravo gubello salmon pizza
- Welcoming family atmosphere
- Phenomenal salumeria
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Mon. and Tues., Reservations essential -
3. Logan Brown
$$$$ | |The imposing exterior and classical interior of this former bank building showcase the fact that this Wellington stalwart delivers exceptional dining in an unpretentious way....
The imposing exterior and classical interior of this former bank building showcase the fact that this Wellington stalwart delivers exceptional dining in an unpretentious way. The menu highlights New Zealand's produce and exemplary wines; knowledgeable and friendly staff talk you through each dish, and there’s an early bistro menu or a longer degustation menu if you want to make a night of it.
192 Cuba St., Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-801–5114Known For
- Paua (abalone) ravioli
- Seven-course menu on Saturday
- Local and sustainable ingredients
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. -
4. Loretta
$$$ | Wellington Central |Adorned with its earthy-chic accents and wide wooden tables, Loretta makes a daily, but effortless transformation from a relaxed brunch spot to a bustling candle-lit...
Adorned with its earthy-chic accents and wide wooden tables, Loretta makes a daily, but effortless transformation from a relaxed brunch spot to a bustling candle-lit restaurant. With their famously daily-evolving menu, brunches typically begin with smoothies and spritzers, waffles, and crumpets, each served with seasonal fruits. Lunch and dinner follow a similar seasonal theme with salads, wood-fired pizzas, savory pies, and hearty servings of seasoned meats to share.
181 Cuba St., Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand04-384–2213Known For
- An extensive wine list available by the glass
- An easy-going atmosphere great for families
- Daily-changing menu
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. -
5. Dockside Restaurant & Bar
$$$$ | |A wood-beam roof and oiled floorboards enhance the nautical vibe at this former warehouse on the wharf, and you can get close to the water...
A wood-beam roof and oiled floorboards enhance the nautical vibe at this former warehouse on the wharf, and you can get close to the water on the large harborfront deck. Inside or out, it's a lively spot, particularly on Friday nights, and as expected, the menu features a broad range of fresh seafood.
Jervois Quay, Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-499–9900Known For
- Five-course degustation menu (book well in advance)
- Prime waterfront location
- Busy weekend nights
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
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6. Dragonfly
$$$ | |Cylindrical orange shades hovering over polished wood tables give this modern Asian eatery a warm, intimate atmosphere. A scattershot approach of ordering multiple small plates...
Cylindrical orange shades hovering over polished wood tables give this modern Asian eatery a warm, intimate atmosphere. A scattershot approach of ordering multiple small plates ensures the most fun and variety of flavors before finishing with Dragonfly's mini-tasting dessert: four tiny delights that are perfect for sharing.
70 Courtenay Pl., Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-803--3995Known For
- <PRO>cool, chic decor</PRO>
- <PRO>cocktails with an Asian twist</PRO>
- <PRO>lively outdoor dining in the back</PRO>
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch -
7. Grill Meats Beer
$$$ | |A relaxed and fun place to enjoy conversation and good food, the focus here is on the casual beer drinker rather than the aficionado. Each...
A relaxed and fun place to enjoy conversation and good food, the focus here is on the casual beer drinker rather than the aficionado. Each dish has a recommended beer to go with it; if you want to try something out of your comfort zone, staff are trained to help you expand your palate.
227 Cuba St., Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-801–8787Known For
- Local sustainable produce
- Excellent beer pairings
- Chipotle-braised brisket fries
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. -
8. Mason
$$$$ | Newtown |Tucked away in a nook of suburban Newtown, the deceptive frontage suggests Mason offers little else beyond a trendy wine bar. However, once you look...
Tucked away in a nook of suburban Newtown, the deceptive frontage suggests Mason offers little else beyond a trendy wine bar. However, once you look beyond the local and organic wine and beer lists, you'll also find a celebration of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Though a succinct menu of small plates and indulgent desserts, there is a generous rotation of specials and salatim (Israeli-style side dishes), all likely to be re-ordered immediately after you finish the first plate.
3 Wilson St., Wellington, Wellington, New ZealandKnown For
- Friendly and attentive service
- Humming atmosphere
- Locally celebrated chef Matt Hawkes
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun.--Tues. No lunch -
9. Master Kong
$$$ | Wellington Central |Reveling in the lively waterfront atmosphere, Master Kong has a vibrant, fun, and sometimes spicy personality, both in its cuisine and its decor. The menu...
Reveling in the lively waterfront atmosphere, Master Kong has a vibrant, fun, and sometimes spicy personality, both in its cuisine and its decor. The menu covers the most-beloved Asian street foods, ranging from fresh sake-cured salmon bites, to flavorful fusion-style dumplings, to Korean barbecue banquets. The menu is equally complemented by a large list of elaborate cocktails and mocktails. The varied and comprehensive menu, friendly service, and large tables make this an enjoyable spot for families and groups.
33 Customhouse Quay, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand04-471–1776Known For
- Peking duck pancake feast
- Bright and lively waterfront location
- Extravagant and creative cocktails
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10. Pravda
$$$$ | Wellington Central |Three king-size chandeliers dominate the high ceilings in this classic, old Wellington building; the café area has half-paneled walls and a matching bar that gives...
Three king-size chandeliers dominate the high ceilings in this classic, old Wellington building; the café area has half-paneled walls and a matching bar that gives a touch of understated class. The menu changes regularly to capture the best of the season's produce and if you're passing by during the day, their cheese scones are much loved by locals.
107 Custom House Quay, Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-801–8858Known For
- <PRO>Soviet-kitsch decor</PRO>
- <PRO>great wine list</PRO>
- <PRO>excellent steak</PRO>
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun., Credit cards accepted -
11. Saint Sebastian
$$$ | |Experience delicious and unique takes on kaimoana (seafood) in this pale blue monument to the sea. The restaurant specializes in home-style cooking and features locally...
Experience delicious and unique takes on kaimoana (seafood) in this pale blue monument to the sea. The restaurant specializes in home-style cooking and features locally sourced ingredients from the Wairarapa pastures to the coast of Palliser Bay. The Paua (abalone) dumplings and Kohe Kohe oysters are not to be missed. Reservations are essential for dinner.
109a Chapel St., Masterton, Wellington, 5810, New Zealand06-216–1471Known For
- Great sharing plates
- Popular with locals
- Excellent service and ambience
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. -
12. Shed 5
$$$$ | |Huge windows facing the harbor disguise the fact that this historic building on the wharf was once a woolshed. On the menu, seafood stands out;...
Huge windows facing the harbor disguise the fact that this historic building on the wharf was once a woolshed. On the menu, seafood stands out; the daily fish selection is sourced and filleted on-site by Shed 5's fishmonger, and the seafood risotto changes daily depending on what the tide brings in.
Jervois Quay, Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-499–9069Known For
- <PRO>lovely window seating</PRO>
- <PRO>huge range of local and international wine</PRO>
- <PRO>vegetarian options</PRO>
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
13. The Backbencher Gastropub
$$$ | |Right across the way from the Parliament buildings sits this landmark watering hole where politicians grab a cold beer after a hot debate. The walls...
Right across the way from the Parliament buildings sits this landmark watering hole where politicians grab a cold beer after a hot debate. The walls have become a gallery of political cartoons and caricature puppets of government characters and well-known sports figures, while menu items are named after notable politicians.
34 Molesworth St., Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-472–3065Known For
- Quirky decor
- Rubbing elbows with politicians
- Upscale pub cuisine
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. -
14. The Botanist
$$$ | Wellington Central |Though right at home among the seaside cottages of Lyall Bay, this plant-based haven is anything but traditional. The Botanist offers tasty and innovative takes...
Though right at home among the seaside cottages of Lyall Bay, this plant-based haven is anything but traditional. The Botanist offers tasty and innovative takes on traditionally meat-centered meals in a seasonally evolving menu. It opens for brunch and then runs to late-night cocktail hours every day, and the menu is also complemented with appropriately botanical teas, kombuchas, and cocktails.
219 Onepu Rd., Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand04-891–0198Known For
- Seaside views
- 100% plant-based menu
- Sheltered sunny courtyard
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15. The Crab Shack
$$$ | |Set on the waterfront, with crab-pots and ropes hanging from the ceiling and walls bedecked in old-world maps and colorful recycled timber, the Crab Shack...
Set on the waterfront, with crab-pots and ropes hanging from the ceiling and walls bedecked in old-world maps and colorful recycled timber, the Crab Shack is an American-style diner with a Kiwi twist. Strong Cajun flavors and massive crab dishes are the order of the day, but there are plenty of land-based options if you don't feel like seafood.
Queens Wharf, Wellington, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand04-916--4250Known For
- <PRO>engaging and fun staff</PRO>
- <PRO>broad menu options but a big focus on seafood</PRO>
- <PRO>dishes for sharing</PRO>
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16. The Farriers Bar & Eatery
$$$ | |At The Farriers, you can watch the chefs in the open kitchen while waiting for your order to arrive. Much of the large menu is...
At The Farriers, you can watch the chefs in the open kitchen while waiting for your order to arrive. Much of the large menu is devoted to pub fare and wood-fired pizzas, all made from scratch, but interesting main courses tempt those with more ambitious appetites.
4 Queen St. N, Masterton, Wellington, 5810, New Zealand06-377–1107Known For
- Popular with locals
- Basic, well-executed menu
- Courtyard for summer seating
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17. The Village Café
$$ | |At this rustic barnlike café with a sunny outdoor courtyard, all the food is made from local ingredients. The cooks even smoke their own salmon...
At this rustic barnlike café with a sunny outdoor courtyard, all the food is made from local ingredients. The cooks even smoke their own salmon and stuff their own sausages. A great start to a day of wine tasting, since the food is hearty enough to keep you going all day.
6 Kitchener St., Martinborough, Wellington, 5741, New Zealand06-306–8814Known For
- Hearty brunches
- Huge and varied menu
- Plenty of space
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner -
18. The White Swan Country Hotel Restaurant
$$$ | |This former railway administration building was chopped into several pieces and relocated before being transformed into a grand country hotel. The menu changes seasonally and...
This former railway administration building was chopped into several pieces and relocated before being transformed into a grand country hotel. The menu changes seasonally and incorporates locally sourced meat and vegetables. A big open fireplace, light modern furniture, and glittering chandeliers create a warm, welcoming dining room where the service is impeccable.
109 Main St., Greytown, Wellington, 5712, New Zealand021-539–528Known For
- Great accommodations on site
- Excellent veranda seating
- Good local wine selection
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Tues.--Wed. -
19. Tirohana Estate and Cellars Restaurant
$$$$ | |The dark-tile floor and white tablecloths put this classy dining area way above the usual winery restaurant, and a wrought-iron door, black leather chairs, and...
The dark-tile floor and white tablecloths put this classy dining area way above the usual winery restaurant, and a wrought-iron door, black leather chairs, and polished-brass ceiling fan add to the aura. It's a prix-fixe dinner menu, and there is usually a lamb and a beef dish among their offerings. It all comes with impeccable and friendly service.
42 Puruatanga Rd., Martinborough, Wellington, 5471, New Zealand06-306–9933Known For
- Bread and butter pudding
- Complimentary transfers from local accommodations
- Excellent wine-pairings
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential -
20. Union Square Bistro and Bar
$$$$ | |Located and independently operated within the historic Martinborough Hotel, the decor here is understated yet comfortable. The classic bistro menu offers European favorites for lunch...
Located and independently operated within the historic Martinborough Hotel, the decor here is understated yet comfortable. The classic bistro menu offers European favorites for lunch and dinner, with brunch on weekends.
Union Sq., Martinborough, Wellington, 5711, New Zealand06-306–8350Known For
- Michelin-starred chef
- Town center location
- Great gin menu
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