Wellington’s very own Venetian-themed restaurant sits just outside the popular Cuba Street. The bar and restaurant is almost always packed with diners looking to have a taste of Italy. The establishment is also committed to sourcing the freshest ingredients such as wild foraged porcini mushroom and freshly caught fish of the day.

Like many other Wellington restaurants, dishes at Ombra are served tapas-style where the whole table digs into the sharing plates. The free-range meat and eggs sourced by the restaurant make for mouth-watering dishes complemented with organic greens and nuts. 

199 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Seated at the waterfront boasting views of Wellington harbour, Chocolate Fish Cafe is perfect for a relaxing morning out in the sun. The cafe’s outdoor seating area also houses a mini playground where kids can pick out their favourite toy from the toy box while parents take a rest or chat amongst one another. 

The cafe’s popular barbecued seafood sammies (Kiwi slang for sandwiches) are made only with the freshest seafood. Also on the menu are yummy cakes, scones, meringues, and ice blocks. A must-have for any diner is the Chocolate Fish Shake, consisting of ice cream, fresh berry coulis, and milk. Super yum.  

100 Shelly Bay Road, Maupuia, Wellington 6022, New Zealand

A nod to Mr Go’s, a shop in Wellington manned by a Chinese market gardener in the 1800s, this Pan-Asian restaurant seeks to continue the harmonious relationship between the Western and the Chinese markets. Today, Mr Go’s is vibrantly decorated with an eye catching pink exterior with a trendy sign sitting atop. 

The poster food of the restaurant is undeniably, the Gua Bao–Taiwanese style steamed milk buns–coupled with appetising fillings including pork belly, tofu, and market fish. Sharing plates are also the norm here, as groups of diners share the popular Kung Pao Cauliflower and Shiitake Mushroom Wantons. The restaurant also has an exciting “Regional Menu Series”, where new dishes are created every month based on a selected Asian region.    

59 Taranaki Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

The first known written reference to pasta was in 1154, hence the name of the restaurant. Bringing pasta to the realm of fast food, 1154 makes its pasta in-house using free-range eggs and New Zealand Semolina, whipping up bowls of pasta to hungry customers at lighting speed.

The restaurant is devoted to sourcing the best ingredients to serve up the most unique pasta dishes inspired from traditional favourites. Bolognese, carbonara, pomodoro, vesuviana, whatever pasta you’re looking for—1154 has it all.    

132 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Step into an old tavern and be instantly transported to Italy at Cicio Cacio Osteria. This humble Italian establishment started by a married couple and their business partner turned out to be a successful leap of faith. Championing authenticity and simplicity, their dishes are inspired by the chef’s interactions with people, places, and memories.

The inviting family atmosphere of the restaurant draws diners into a cosy dining experience coupled with delectable food including pappardelle, gnocchi, and salsiccia. Paper is also used for table mats, giving children the opportunity to doodle or for you to scribble a word of thanks for the delicious food and welcoming staff. 

Behind Moon Bar 167 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand

Nestled along the scenic strip of Lyall Bay, Spruce Goose takes its namesake from the fearless spirit of a World War II aircraft. It invites diners to sit back and relax while dreaming big with its selection of great food and drink.

Tuck in to a delicious pail of fries and their charming compliments including crispy salt and pepper squid, fried chicken wings, and panko crumbled prawns. Their drinks menu consists of various options, including a mean chocolate milkshake, chai latte, and mixed berry smoothie. 

30 Cochrane Street, Rongotai, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Situated along the stunning coast of Lyall Bay, sit among foliage in Wellington’s favourite plant-based haunt, The Botanist. Boasting indoor and outdoor seating, diners can choose to enjoy the quaint interior or look out into the open sea. 

This vegan establishment takes the cake in serving up delicious eats for plant-based customers. Its innovative take on plant-based cuisine makes for a menu line-up of cheese filled burgers, an innovative banh mi with tempeh, and Biscoff tiramisu pancakes. 

219 Onepu Road, Lyall Bay, Wellington 6022, New Zealand

A Chinese food staple, Dragons is Wellington’s authentic yum cha establishment for those craving a bite of their favourite dim sum. A key player in the capital’s Asian dining scene, transport yourself into Hong Kong the minute you walk through the doors. 

All the delectable food at Dragons will either be hand harried on trays or pushed in carts to your table, reminiscent of traditional yum cha places. Take your pick from whatever food selection is brought before your eyes and feast to your stomach’s content. 

25 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Dubbed Newton’s “small plates darling”, Margot is a cosy and welcoming establishment that serves as part bar, part restaurant. The intimate dining space of 26-seats is likened to a small house party hosting a gathering of family or friends, playing into the establishment’s welcoming concept.

In similar Wellington style, the dishes are most often shared amongst a group of diners. Margot’s produce are locally sourced and inspired by rustic, European share plates. Look out for the popular Fried Fourgettes with Miso Mayonnaise, Te Kouma Oysters with Vermouth Mignonette, and Spencer Golden Tomatoes with Bravas Sauce. 

163 Riddiford Street, entrance via Wilson Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand

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