Planning for a night of fine-dining to satisfy your discerning palate? If you are, Wellington is the perfect place for that.

The world’s cuisine can be enjoyed in different spots around the coolest little capital. Whether it’s a salmon dish, fresh salad, or flavoursome pizza, we have you covered.

The fares of our featured restaurants are seasonal and fresh. Moreover, they also have a diverse range of wines for you to pick from and relish your meal with.

So go ahead and choose from our top restaurants below. Bon appétit!

The Best Wellington Restaurants

If you’re ready, we now give you the best Wellington restaurants you can visit!

1. Salty Pidgin

BEST FOR	Turkish pizzas, award-winning wines, and variegated craft beers
SERVICES	Dinner Wine & beer Takeaway Events
WEBSITE	http://saltypidgin.nz/
ADDRESS	5 Todman Street, Brooklyn, Wellington, New Zealand
CONTACT DETAILS	04 385-9137
OPERATING HOURS	Monday & Tuesday: closed Wednesday – Sunday: 4.00 PM till late
PRICES	Please refer to their dinner menu and rates here For wine and beer beverages, check their prices here

Come by Salty Pidgin for a delectable dinner during the week. It has a bright and relaxing atmosphere with a cosy open fire to enhance your dining experience.

Their super-tasty food is made from the freshest and most seasonal ingredients. This is perfectly complemented by their expansive, award-winning wines and craft beers.

For a start, you can try their wholesome green leaf salad consisting of watercress and tarragon dressing. Then, order their famous Turkish pides (pizzas) like beef kofta or shaved lamb shoulder.

The roadside modern bistro is just 5 minutes away from Central Wellington. It’s open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 4 pm till late.

Customer Reviews

Concerning the food and service, Salty Pidgin is an exceptional restaurant delighting guests that come, whether for dinner or brunch.

Let’s read Rosie’s review of the restaurant:

“We visit the Salty Pidgin every time we are in Wellington, our favourite place. Always delicious food, this time we had the beef fillet and the entree & main specials. Excellent service & relaxed atmosphere.”

Furthermore, another customer wrote this comment:

“Thrilled to see cauliflower still on menu! Amazing tartare and kingfish. Lovely atmosphere and attentive staff. Thank you!”

2. Spring Kitchen

BEST FOR	Asian-inspired dishes in a pleasant restaurant
SERVICES	Lunch Dinner Bar Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://springkitchen.co.nz/
ADDRESS	Corner of Lambton Quay and Grey Street, 28 Grey St Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+64 4-499 3496
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Sunday: 12.00 – 2.00 PM, 5.00 – 9.00 PM
PRICES	Kindly refer to their menu and rates here

Spring Kitchen is an Asian-fusion restaurant that’s nestled within the 1920s-fashioned DoubleTree hotel by Hilton Wellington.

It offers a mix of Asian flavours and New Zealand produce, resulting in an innovative and supreme gastronomic experience. The delicious culinary fusion can grab your emotions, interest, and palate.

Enjoy their spicy tandoori salmon meal with a lentil cracker on top or extra good Podi-spiced venison that comes with mustard potato and charred broccolini.

And for the main, they have special Angus tenderloin beef with smoked eel and truffle mash over delicious curried butter sauce. Have some fine wine with that.

Customer Reviews

Despite some complaints about order delays, most customers enjoyed their dining experience here. They said it had superb food and attentive and friendly staff.

One guest named Paul R. wrote of the restaurant:

“Staying at the Doubletree and luckily decided to drop by for drinks and were not dissapointed. Friendly staff and great drinks menu. 10/10 would come again!

Faqs about the Best Wellington Restaurants.”

Shweta G. also mentioned this:

“Excellent food and warm staff made our group dinner fantastic and memorable….thanks to the team.”

3. The Chippery

BEST FOR	Fresh and locally sourced fish ‘n chips
SERVICES	Takeaway Dine-in Catering
WEBSITE	https://www.thechippery.co.nz/
ADDRESS	0 Murphy Street, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand 6011 5 Majoribanks St, Mt Vic, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+64 4-382 8713 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Thursday & Sunday: 4.00 – 8.00 PM Friday & Saturday: 12.00 – 8.00 PM
PRICES	Check out their menu here

Craving delicious fish and chips? If so, why don’t you order from The Chippery? They have two branches located in Mt Victoria and Thorndon.

They are easily one of the best Wellington restaurants. That’s because their fish, crafted beer batter, and agria chips are all locally sourced for a fantastic taste!

Their broad menu offers a lot of choices. From ordinary fish ‘n chips to slow-roasted pork belly burger and Greek salad, there’s something for everyone.

That said, if you have a special diet, don’t hesitate to ask the Chippery team. They can make a gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian meal for you.

Their daily specials give more options whenever you order. And if you’ve set a small get-together at home with family and friends, catering options are also available.

Customer Reviews

One client with coeliac disease benefitted from the gluten-free meals of The Chippery. Another said that she took visitors here to show how great Wellington is.

Here’s a comment from Mike about the eatery:

“Holy moly, this place is a real find… best fish and chips I have ever tasted!! And the pineapple rings, and the burgers!! So mouthwatering delicious. No matter where you might be staying in Wellington you gotta track this place down. We went to the Thorndon shop on 10 Murphy Street.”

One customer got value from her order here:

“We enjoyed our meals we purchased using a treat me voucher that I paid $15 for $30 worth of food. Also staff were very friendly too.”

4. Little Penang

BEST FOR	Authentic Malaysian street food
SERVICES	Dine-in Takeaway Coffee & tea
WEBSITE	https://www.facebook.com/LittlePenang/?ref=page_internal
ADDRESS	175 Victoria Street Wellington, New Zealand 6011 44 The Terrace, Te Aro, 6011, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	Victoria Street: 04 382 9818 The Terrace: 04 390 8844 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Thursday: 11.00 AM – 3.00 PM, 5.00 – 9.00 PM Friday: 11.00 AM – 3.00 PM, 5.00 – 9.30 PM Saturday: 11.00 AM – 9.00 PM
PRICES	View their menu and rates here

Garnering 5 stars on The Dominion Post, Little Penang is a restaurant prides itself on serving authentic Malaysian food.

They have an array of dishes including the iconic Char Koay Teow, which is a fried noodle with prawns and pork sausages, as well as different curry and rice dishes.

To top it off, prices are affordable at Little Penang. Customers say that the food is supremely good and that the portions are big enough that you can share with your family.

Customer Reviews

Facebook reviewers mostly said Little Penang had great authentic food and friendly service. Hence, it’s one of the best Wellington restaurants you can go to.

One guest, Nina C., remarked of the Malaysian restaurant:

“It was my first real, authentic Malaysian food experience and it was really good! ”

Furthermore, check out this review from Mark H.:

“Fantastic food, great prices and we really feel looked after every time we eat here. We always travel down from Hamilton just to get your food.”

5. Egmont Street Eatery

BEST FOR	Creatively presented and satisfying fare
SERVICES	Breakfast Lunch Dinner Cakes Catering
WEBSITE	https://www.egmontstreet.co.nz/
ADDRESS	11 Egmont Street, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+64 4-801 6891 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Saturday: 9.00 AM – 2.00 PM, 5.30  – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9.00 AM – 2.00 PM
PRICES	Please refer to their website for their menu with rates

Located along the Egmont Street laneway, Egmont St Eatery is a cosy restaurant with quaint amber lights, plant displays, and lots of natural light inside.

It’s an all-in-one restaurant serving brunch, lunch, and dinner. As they offer a broad selection of stunning and scrumptious food, you are spoilt for choice.

Try their baked focaccia bread with white anchovy dressing and whipped hapuka roe. After that, you can order a buttermilk chicken burger and a yummy fried cauliflower salad.

They have an array of drinks you can order, be it coffee, wine, or craft beer. Also, you can dine al fresco around some greenery and sunshine.

And if you find it hard to decide on what food to order, their caring staff will provide you with their best recommendations.

Customer Reviews

Customers praise the wonderful service, cosy atmosphere, and great food. One client went to this joint all the way from Kapiti Coast to enjoy what it has to offer.

Let’s read Kyle’s review of the eatery:

“Always try and visit whenever I’m in Wellington. Really cool eatery, tucked away and cozy. Great spot to people watch and enjoy a coffee. Friendly staff, highly recommend.”

Here’s a comment from another satisfied client:

“The French toast was amazing! So soft and fluffy. Great flavours!”

6. BambuchiSan

BEST FOR	Asian-Inspired Cuisine
SERVICES	Japanese Meals, Function Rooms, Events
WEBSITE	https://www.bambuchisan.com/
ADDRESS	31 Waitoa Road, Hataitai
CONTACT DETAILS	PH: (04) 386-4615 MOB: 02108661434 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Tues – Sat: 4pm – late Closed Sunday & Monday
PRICES	Menu

BambuchiSan is the perfect place if you feel like having Asian-inspired food. They aim to provide diners with creative and affordable meals.

They offer a wide range of mouthwatering dishes, from small eats to large platters meant for sharing. If you’re there for a night out, you might be interested to know that they also have various alcoholic beverages in stock.

They serve 100% gluten-free food. If you have allergies, you can inform them so that they can serve you suitable alternatives.

7. Saigon Taste

BEST FOR	Vietnamese Cuisine
SERVICES	Brunch, Lunch or Dinner
WEBSITE	https://www.saigontaste.co.nz/contact
ADDRESS	Saigon Taste 17 Majoribanks Street Mt Victoria Wellington 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	(04) 801 6866 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: Closed Tuesday – Sunday: 11 AM – 10:30 PM
PRICES	Menu

Saigon Taste offers Vietnamese meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu includes some of the most popular dishes in Saigon.

Their specialties are the Saigon Fresh Summer Rolls, Beef Noodle Soup, and Hue’s spicy noodle soup. For beverages, their Saigon Beer is a must-try, especially when paired with their snacks.

The quality of their dishes is assured, thanks to their knowledgeable staff. Feel free to dine in their warm restaurant, or order a few dishes for takeaway.

8. Mekong Cafe

BEST FOR	Vietnamese Cuisine
SERVICES	Dine-In, Pickup, Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://www.mekongcafewellington.com/
ADDRESS	138 Vivian Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
CONTACT DETAILS	04-801 8099 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 11.00am – 9:00pm Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11.00am – 9:00pm Thursday: 11.00am – 9:00pm Friday: 11:00am – 9:30pm Saturday: 11.00am – 9:00pm Sunday: 11.00am – 9:00pm Public Holidays: 11:30am – 8:30pm
PRICES	Menu

Mekong Cafe aims to offer the most authentic Vietnamese dining experience to the residents of Wellington. They take pride in their fresh and flavorful dishes.

The dishes in their extensive menu are all made from original recipes. Each item is carefully crafted to dazzle all the senses.

Dining at their warm and inviting restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression. Diners are also free to make reservations for pickup or delivery.

9. Somtum Thai Restaurant 

BEST FOR	Authentic Thai meals
SERVICES	Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://www.somtumthai.nz/
ADDRESS	124 Cuba Street, Wellington 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+64 4-213 8665
OPERATING HOURS	Mon – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM Sun: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
PRICES	Menu is found on the main page

Somtum Thai Restaurant is a place that offers a great selection of Thai cusisine. Made with only the freshest and best ingredients sourced locally, the consistency of the quality of their food is one to note if you’re one to repeat your favorite meals

Experience good Thai food, try out their Pad Thai, curry, and noodle soups. Book your seat reservations at Somtum Thai Restaurant’s website.

Customer Reviews

Somtum Thai Restaurant has garnered high reviews from their customers. Check out some of them below:

“One of the best Thai Food restaurants in Wellington. The menu for thai street foods is excellent. If the menu says prawn you get prawn not a whole load of vegetables. Loved it. Reminded me of good food in Thailand the staff too are very courteous. 5 stars.” – Jenson Colaco

“Scrumptious thai food! Definitely loved everything.. food, service and atmosphere. Good sized portions and waitress taught us how to pronounce the menu items properly as we were failing!
We were given a spice rack with different options to make our meals spicier if needed.

I’ve always missed this restaurant as there is so many options on Cuba St but definitely not a place to miss! Try it out for yourself” – C Deans

“Amazing Thai food. One of the rare really authentic place with Thai food in NZ. Ordered Tom yum soup and minced pork basil rice and it felt like I was back in Thailand again.” – Meifern Kng

10. Havana Bar

BEST FOR	Authentic Thai meals
SERVICES	Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway
WEBSITE	http://havanabar.co.nz
ADDRESS	32a – 34 Wigan St, Te Aro, Wellington
CONTACT DETAILS	Email: [email protected] Phone: (04) 384 7039
OPERATING HOURS	Tuesday – Saturday 4pm til late + Friday Lunches from midday
PRICES	Menu

Havana Bar has been aptly described as a Cuban oasis in Wellington, New Zealand. Customers can find the quaint establishment nestled amongst high rise neighbours.

Those looking to enjoy scrumptious Cuban-inspired food and drinks alongside the finest music need not look further as Havana Bar offers just that. Their extensive menu and excellent customer service makes this restaurant a go-to for locals and visitors. 

Customer Reviews

Havana Bar has earned a 4.5 rating on Google Reviews. Here are some things that customers have said about it.

“What a great experience. Warmly welcomed and taken to table. Menu explained and we took a few moments to decide. Chose 4 small plates, and 2 large plates to share between the two of us. Highlights were the zucchini salad, the chicken thighs and the bone marrow was so good, we ordered a second one!”

“Love the food here. Greet service. Shared our meals which is always fun getting the right balance …… hadn’t seen our friends in a while so a lot to catch up on. We were sitting below a ceiling speaker and have to say was quite an effort to hear each other talk. Think it’s important to get that music ambience balanced so that can talk comfortably at the table. Perhaps next time”

11. Cashmere Lounge

BEST FOR	Restaurant/Wine Bar
SERVICES	Dinner, Drinks
WEBSITE	https://www.cashmerelounge.co.nz/
ADDRESS	4 Cashmere AveKhandallah, Wellington, NZ
CONTACT DETAILS	04 891 1089
OPERATING HOURS	Tuesday – Saturday 4pm-11pm
PRICES	Menu

The Cashmere Lounge is a restaurant and wine bar located in the Wellington suburbs. They take pride in offering an excellent selection of food and drinks.

Their dinner menu includes various meat and seafood, as well as sides and desserts. Each dish you choose is sure to be prepared by their expert chefs with care.

While their opening hours are restricted to the evening, you can also drop by at any time for a drink. No matter what you choose, The Cashmere Lounge is sure to offer you a relaxed dining atmosphere to enjoy.

12. Masala

BEST FOR	Vegetarian Curry
SERVICES	Lunch, Dinner, Catering
WEBSITE	https://masala.gen.nz/
ADDRESS	12 Allen Street, Te Aro, Wellington
CONTACT DETAILS	04 385 2012 or 021 775001
OPERATING HOURS	Lunch: Mon – Fir 11:30am- 2:30 PM Dinner: Mon – Sun: 05:00pm – Till Late
PRICES	Menu can be opened in the website

Masala provides one of the best Indian cuisine in all of Wellington. With the culinary skills of their chefs, rest assured that what they bring from kitchen to table is all fresh and authentic. Add on to it the exotic drinks they have to offer and you surely will have a good dining experience.

Catering services are also available in case you need one for an event or party, They have pre-set menus and customized ones fit to your taste.

Check out more of the details on Masala’s website or book a table reservation there as well.

Customer Reviews

Masala has received a lot of good reviews from their customers, deeming them a restaurant someone needs to go to if they’re ever craving. You can read some of their feedbacks below:

“There are few restaurants that serves authentic Indian cuisine and this is one of them. If you are in Wellington definitely must try.
Whenever out of India I rarely go to restaurants serving Indian cuisine but Masala Cafe and Bar really stood out in terms of flavours, ambience, service and chef who is always up for a good chat.” – Karan Doshi

“Decided to go to Masala for a takeaway. We had a drink at the bar while awaiting our order. Great service and it was a wow when we tasted the food. Pretty hard to beat and very comparable to Indian Affair, Taupo.” – Joyce Watson

“Good service and delicious food, specially if you love creativity check their walls, you will definitely laugh and enjoy?” – Sunny Dhindsa

13. Where’s Charlie? 

BEST FOR	Vietnamese cuisine
SERVICES	Dine-in, takeout, and delivery Vietnamese food
WEBSITE	http://wherescharlie.co.nz/
ADDRESS	108 Lambton Quay, Wellington
CONTACT DETAILS	Online orders Deliveries Reservations
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM Saturday – Sunday, 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
PRICES	Please refer to their menu

A fast, casual, yet extremely elegant diner. Where’s Charlie? is the place to be especially if you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese Cuisine. Their menu upscales their Vietnamese choices and adds a contemporary twist to them.

With the restaurant’s refreshing flavor palette full of fresh greens, it comes as no surprise that their menu also caters to those who have vegan preferences.

The best part is that this Vietnamese cuisine can’t only be experienced by dining in because they also offer take-out and delivery! It’s fresh Vietnamese food that can be enjoyed within the comfort of your home.

Customer Reviews

Where’s Charlie has food and ambience in the bag and its a great place for Vietnamese Cuisine. Let’s read one review of the restaurant:

“Stumbled on this central eating place and couldn’t believe it. Stood for some time to watch where the locals were eating and picked Where’s Charlie and are we glad we did. Beautiful and fresh authentic food. Wonderful flavours and spice. Massive serving – hint you dont need an entree. Would have come back again if we had stayed longer.”

Another customer wrote:

“I love Vietnamese food. They are in the capital market on the Willis st side. I tried their ginger chicken which you can opt for rice or noodles or salad. They had great service and were very accommodating separating my meal so my vegetarian friend could share my salad. Fast and delicious. If you like low carb this place has healthy options.”

14. The Old Quarter 

BEST FOR	Modern Vietnamese Cuisine
SERVICES	Lunch, Dinner, Set Menus
WEBSITE	https://theoldquarter.co.nz
ADDRESS	39b Dixon St, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	04 385 3916 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
PRICES	Lunch Dinner Set Menu

The Old Quarter is perfect for diners who crave modern Vietnamese Cuisine. It provides meals for lunch and dinner.

Their experienced and skilled chefs guarantee that any meal you order is sure to taste great. They make sure to use authentic recipes for their dishes.

If you’re looking to wind down in the evenings, they also have a drinks menu available for you. Takeout is also available for those who don’t have time to dine in.

15. El Matador

BEST FOR	Latin Cuisine
SERVICES	Dine In
WEBSITE	https://www.elmatador.co.nz
ADDRESS	196 Cuba Street, Te Aro Wellington 6011, New Zealand
CONTACT DETAILS	Ph: (04) 381 2999 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Sunday 5pm – Late
PRICES	Menu

Next on our list is a restaurant that has recently made a name for itself for serving bold, fresh flavours of Latine cuisine accompanied by wine, cocktails, and beers.

El Matador is New Zealand’s first traditional Argetine wood-fired asador and parilla. The restaurant has a large dining space, sheltered sunny garden, and an open kitchen.

The staff offers some of the best customer service we’ve seen so far, what with them being warm, welcoming, and polite in every interaction.

And let’s not forget about the food that El Matador has to offer. As previously mentioned, El Matador specialises in Latin cuisine, with the restaurant’s menu showcasing various tapas, wood-fired burgers, sharing platters, wood-fired steaks, and desserts.

Some of our personal favourites from the selections are the Grilled Octopus with Spiced Carrot Puree, the Wakanui Braised Beef Cheek, the Parrillada sharing platter, which consists of Wood-Fired Lamb, Beef, Chicken, Chorizo, Morcilla and Mollejas with Chimichurri; and the OP Rib Eye. To finish the mouthwatering meal, we also recommend the Dulce de Leche Baked Cheesecake or the Vanilla Caramel Flan.

16. Juniper

BEST FOR	European Cuisine with touches of Pacific and Aotearoa
SERVICES	Dine-In and Takeaways
WEBSITE	http://juniperrestaurant.co.nz/
ADDRESS	Corner of Featherston & Johnston Street, CBD Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+64 4-499 3668 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 10:00 – 22:00 Tuesday: 10:00 – 22:00 Wednesday: 10:00 – 22:00 Thursday: 10:00 – 22:00 Friday: 10:00 – 23:00 Saturday: 17:00 – 22:00
PRICES	Lunch Menu Dinner Menu

Next on our list is a restaurant known for their selection of gin as well as scrumptious food menu.

Juniper is named after the fruit, which is the vital ingredient of Gin. That being said, the restaurant showcases 32 different kinds of Gin alongside 40 cocktails that can appeal to different palates.

As for the food menu, Juniper has four to choose from: the Lunch Menu, the Dinner Menu, the Burger Wellington Menu, and the Takeaway Menu.

Some of our personal favourites from the Lunch Menu are The Dirty Birdie, which is a panko crumbed fried chicken burger with jalapeno, kimchi slaw, and Sriracha mayo; the Angus Scotch Fillet, and the Juniper Tiramisu to finish the meal.

For the Dinner Menu, we recommend the Falafel Buddha Bowl, the Beef Tenderloin, and the Miss Daisy Burger, which is a black bean veggie patty with mushrooms, peri-peri romesco, grilled haloumi, and basil pesto.

Each and every dish is made with the finest ingredients that New Zealand has to offer. Moreover, they’re cooked to order, ensuring that the diners get the best of what Juniper has to offer.

Aside from the food, Juniper also comes highly recommended because of its accessible location, sophisticated ambience, and excellent customer service.

17. Apache

BEST FOR	Vietnamese Cuisine with French Elements
SERVICES	Dine-In, Click-Collect, Home Delivery, and Private Functions
WEBSITE	https://www.apache.kiwi/
ADDRESS	122 Wakefield Street Te Aro, 6011 Wellington
CONTACT DETAILS	PHONE 04 499 2999 EMAIL [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Tuesday to Friday: 12 noon til 2pm | 5pm til Late Saturday: 5pm til Late
PRICES	https://www.apache.kiwi/menu-winter-1

APACHE is another restaurant to consider if you’re craving for Asian cuisine.

The restaurant has made a name for itself by constantly delivering a selection of Vietnamese-inspired meals infused with French elements. Aside from the country’s cuisine itself, APACHE takes inspiration from the busy streets of Hanoi.

Open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, APACHE accommodates guests who are looking to dine in the restaurant. Those who can’t get away to make a physical visit are also catered to through APACHE’s click-collect and home delivery systems.

Looking to serve Vietnamese cuisine during your next event? APACHE can help out in this endeavour as well, given the fact that the restaurant is open for private functions and even offers set banquet menus for large parties.

Now, in terms of the food itself, APACHE has an extensive menu filled with dishes that should not be missed. For the sake of being concise, we’re going to list out some of our personal favourites.

These are the Green Papaya Salad, the Vegie Fried Rice, the Hanoi Pork Noodles, and the Salmon Rice Paper Parcels from the Lunch Menu. If you’re visiting APACHE during their dinner service, then we recommend trying out the Wagyu Brisket Bao Bun, the Numbing Lamb Salad, the Da Lat Eggplant, and the Poulet Au Caramel.

APACHE’s modern take on popular Northern Vietnamese hawker street food with French influences never fails to amaze our palates. Customers will find that the meals are made with the finest quality ingredients, such as Angus beef and free range pork, chicken and eggs.

The end result of investing in quality ingredients? A mouthwatering menu that features the five fundamental Vietnamese flavours: spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet.

18. Saigon Van Grill Bar

BEST FOR	South Vietnamese Cuisine
SERVICES	Dine-in and Takeaway
WEBSITE	http://saigonvan.net/saigon-van-grill-bar-wellington/
ADDRESS	201 Cuba street Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	+6448018668 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: CLOSED Tuesday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 22:00 Wednesday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 22:00 Thursday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 22:00 Friday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 23:00 Saturday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 23:00 Sunday: 12:00 – 15:00 17:00 – 22:00
PRICES	http://https//saigonvan.net/GRILLBAR/#menu

Saigon Van Grill Bar is an iconic establishment found on Cuba Street that is known for serving some of the best South Vietnamese dishes in the country.

The menu is one of the most extensive we’ve seen so far, featuring a wide array of dishes for lunch and dinner as well as various cocktails, spirits, wines, and beers to accompany the food and to enjoy in one’s lonesome or with company.

Some of the dishes we personally enjoy are the Pork & Prawn Summer Rolls, the Lemongrass Tofu, the Spicy Beef Noodle, the Ora King Salmon Fillet, and the Braised Pork Belly. There are also different sides to accompany the dishes, such as rice, sesame crackers, kumara chips, and picked carrots and daikon.

It’s worth noting that Saigon Van Grill Bar’s dishes come in portions larger than normal — this is because Saigon Van Grill Bar makes them with groups in mind. Of course, it’s perfectly fine to enjoy them alone as well!

Moreover, the food is prepared to order, and served once they are done cooking. So, it’s not at all surprising that some dishes come out quicker than others.

Another reason why we enjoy dining at Saigon Van Grill Bar is the space that the restaurant has to offer. There are plenty of seating for customers, as well as a huge intimate space upstairs for private functions.

19. PhuThai Esarn

BEST FOR	Authentic North and North Eastern Thai Cuisine
SERVICES	Dine-in and Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://phuthaiesarn.co.nz
ADDRESS	35 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington
CONTACT DETAILS	04 801 5006
OPERATING HOURS	Mon – Fri 12PM – 2.30PM • 5PM – LATE Sat – Sun 5PM – LATE
PRICES	Menu

Located in Cambridge Terrace, Phu Thai Esarn is an Asian restaurant that has attracted plenty of attention in recent times thanks to its diverse menu. They offer a wide range of authentic North and North Eastern Thai dishes, all of which are cooked to order and made with the finest ingredients available.

Phu Thai Esarn’s menu features appetisers, curries, rice and noodle dishes, stir-fried dishes, soups, hot plates, seafood specials, vegetarian dishes, Esarn dishes, and desserts.

Some of our go-to favourites when dining in the restaurant are the Karee Puff and Mixed Entrees for appetiser, the Green Curry, Pad Thai, Pad Phet Duck stir fry, Tom Yum Ta-Ley soup, Hor Mok Ta-Ley seafood dish, Fresh Vegetarian Spring Rolls, and Sweet Sticky Rice with Lychee Ice Cream.

Aside from the mouthwatering Thai food, Phu Thai Esarn also comes highly recommended because of their service excellence. The restaurant operates seven days a week, and the waiting and kitchen staff are, expectedly, always professional, polite, and quick to deliver what is asked of them.

20. Bin44 Restaurant + Bar

BEST FOR	Craft Beer Taps
SERVICES	Dine-In and Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://bin44.co.nz
ADDRESS	3 Queens Wharf, Wellington, 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	(04) 499 4450 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday – Friday : 10:30.a.m – Late Saturday – Sunday: 10:00am – Late
PRICES	Menu

If you’re looking for an establishment that’s a little more casual, one where you can relax, enjoy good food and drinks, alone or with company, then we recommend giving Bin44 a try on your next outing.

Bin44 is a restaurant and bar hybrid known for their accessible location with an amazing food, great food menu, and fantastic selection of craft beers (on tap and bottled) and gin.

The restaurant-bar is open seven days a week, from early morning until late. The staff, regardless of the time of day, are always warm, welcoming, and accommodating.

As for the food and drinks, customers aren’t deprived of choices when dining at Bin44. The menu features breakfast options, set menus (due to seasonal changes, and an all-day ala carte options, bar food, and house smoked meat platters.

Aside from the extensive range of food choices, Bin44 is also commendable for taking into consideration dietary restrictions. Some dishes can be altered to be vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and even dairy-free.

Some of our go-to orders the Carne pizza, which comes with Prosciutto, Streaky Bacon, Pepperoni, and Smoked Tomato Sauce; the Chargrilled Angus Sirloin Steak with Garlic-creamed Sweetcorn + Truffled Brisket Croquette; and the Hot Wings with Buttermilk Ranch.

Bin44 welcomes walk-ins, but considering how busy the restaurant can get, we recommend making reservations online to ensure that you are seated quickly.

21. Wellington Seamarket

BEST FOR	Classic Fish & Chips
SERVICES	Dine-In and Takeaway
WEBSITE	https://www.wellingtonseamarket.com
ADDRESS	220 Cuba Street  146 Lambton Quay  87 High Street, Lower Hutt
CONTACT DETAILS	0800 732 627 [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Lambton Quay Cuba St Lower Hutt
PRICES	Menu

If you’re on the hunt for quality seafood, be it the actual cooked dishes or raw ingredients, then we recommend Wellington Seamarket if you’re in the area.

Wellington Seamarket has been serving the people of Wellington for quite some time now, establishing three locations in the area — one in Lambton Quay, another on Cuba Street, and the last in Lower Hutt — and striving to be one of the most trusted and sought after seafood providers in the market.

As one may surmise from the name, Wellington Seamarket offers a wide array of seafood to their customers. They’re most known for their fish and chips, which focuses on quality and good value, as well as homemade paua fritters and seafood chowders.

They also sell other fresh fish (both whole and fillets), shellfish, squids and octopi, and other seafood varieties such as smoked fish, seafood salads, and marinated raw fish. If you’re looking to stock up on seafood ingredients, Wellington Seamarket also carries frozen seafood.

22. Fidel’s Cafe

BEST FOR	Cuban coffee
SERVICES	Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Functions
WEBSITE	http://fidelscafe.com/
ADDRESS	234 Cuba St, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	04 801 6868  [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Mon-Friday 8am-3pm Sat-Sun 9am-3pm
PRICES	Kindly view their menu here For their drinks menu, click here

For a new brunch experience, why not head down to Fidel’s Cafe in the bustling Cuba Street? Here, they serve up fresh food selections and super-good Cuban coffee.

With a cosy atmosphere and Cuban-style decor, this cafe is a unique and relaxing setting that will transport you to the colourful and historical country of Cuba.

The brunch menu features home-style food like Fidel’s Feast with bacon, poached eggs, sausages, and hash brown, Baked Spanish Eggs, Halloumi on Toast, and others.

They also have pizzas and snacks and a great variety of counter food. For special diets, you can take your pick from their gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.

Customer Reviews

Customers praise Fidel’s Cafe for their delicious flavours, great milkshakes, superb coffee, and a comfortable and low-key vibe.

One diner named Danielle wrote this review:

“Brilliant birthday brunch. I got waffles with bacon, banana and maple syrup. Partner got the big breakfast. Yum as food, lovely service even got a free coffee for my birthday. Best coffee in Wellington. Wish their venue was bigger as lots of people visit and it’s a bit cramped.”

Also, another customer posted his feedback:

“Been twice in the last week coming from/going to airport. Easy parking right outside the front door of Fidel’s which was an ideal start (both times early/mid morning midweek). Cannot comment on any food other than eggs benedict and coffee. Both times the food was excellent with nice coffee and good, prompt service. Well done team, I’ll be back.”

23. Royal Thai Restaurant

BEST FOR	Authentic Thai Cuisine
SERVICES	Dine-In and Takeaways
WEBSITE	http://fidelscafe.com/
ADDRESS	25-27 Majoribank St Mt Victoria Wellington 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	04 384 8653
OPERATING HOURS	Daily, 5PM to 10PM
PRICES	Kindly view their menu here

If you’re looking to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine while in Wellington, then we recommend visiting Royal Thai Cuisine, which is located in Mt Victoria.

Royal Thai Cuisine is a humble restaurant that serves Thai dishes. Their menu is one of the largest we’ve seen so far, offering a diverse array of meals to choose from.

There are meat and seafood-based dishes alongside vegetarian and vegan options for those who have dietary restrictions.

On top of the delicious food, Royal Thai Cuisine has also made a name for itself for its exceptional service. Every dish is made to order and the servers endeavour to provide prompt service.

24. Press Hall

BEST FOR	Multi-cultural Dining Experience
SERVICES	Dining, Entertainment Events
WEBSITE	https://www.presshall.co.nz/
ADDRESS	80 Willis St, Wellington 6011
CONTACT DETAILS	[email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Vary under COVID-19 settings, mainly lunch hours only
PRICES	https://www.presshall.co.nz/meal-deals/

Press Hall is a place where customers can experience and choose from a wide range of eateries and cuisines to explore and savor new flavors and food. It is a culinary destination that features individual eateries such as Aroha, Yoshi, Nam D, and Mad Mex among others.

The website says it all and is a clear reflection of the variety of ambiance that each bar and eatery exhibit so customers can readily get a glimpse of what they offer.

Aside from that, the place also accommodates other events such as night events, competitions, and performances that center on giving customers the time of their lives.

Meal deals and competitions are always changing, and this is actively updated on their social media handles for the customer’s convenience.

Overall, with the diverse choices in terms of food and experience – clients commend them for their delectable dining experience at reasonable prices.

Customer Reviews

Here is a review from one of their previous clients:

“Good to see the food preparation, meals were tasty and good lunch size portion. Great spot for a catchup in the city.”

And that wraps up our list of the best Wellington restaurants. You’ll enjoy the fantastic food and wine while feeling relaxed inside the restaurant.

Have you been to any of these restaurants before? If you have, share with us your experience by writing a comment below, and we’ll get back to you in a bit.

Want to dine in an authentic Italian restaurant? You can read about the best Italian restaurants in Wellington for neat ideas!