Logan Brown, located in a historic bank building on Cuba Street, is a cornerstone of Wellington’s fine dining scene. The restaurant blends old-world charm with modern elegance, featuring high ceilings, polished wooden floors, and large windows. Logan Brown’s menu is a celebration of New Zealand’s finest produce, offering dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in local traditions. The degustation menu is a standout, providing a journey through seasonal flavors paired with an exceptional wine list. Highlights include the paua ravioli and the hapuku fillet, each dish meticulously crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Hippopotamus, housed in the Museum Art Hotel, offers a luxurious dining experience with a French twist. The opulent decor, complete with plush seating and grand chandeliers, sets the stage for a meal that is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. The menu, designed by Executive Chef Laurent Loudeac, features classic French dishes prepared with New Zealand ingredients. The foie gras and duck à l’orange are particular favorites, complemented by an extensive selection of fine wines and champagnes. Hippopotamus is perfect for special occasions and offers a high tea service that is the epitome of elegance.
Floriditas on Cuba Street is a beloved local eatery known for its hearty, wholesome meals and welcoming atmosphere. The bright, airy space is perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or lunch, with large windows offering great people-watching opportunities. The menu features seasonal dishes made from fresh, local produce, with a particular emphasis on baked goods and pastries. The eggs Benedict and ricotta hotcakes are breakfast favorites, while the slow-cooked lamb shoulder is a must-try for lunch. Floriditas also offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Fidel’s Café is an iconic spot on Cuba Street, known for its eclectic vibe and robust menu. This café pays homage to its namesake, Fidel Castro, with Cuban-inspired decor and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. The menu offers a mix of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with a strong focus on comfort food. The nachos and pulled pork sandwiches are particularly popular, and the coffee is some of the best in the city. Fidel’s also caters to vegetarian and vegan diners with a variety of plant-based options. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a sunny Wellington day.
Dragonfly, located on Courtenay Place, offers a modern take on traditional Asian cuisine. The stylish, contemporary interior creates a chic dining environment, while the menu takes diners on a culinary journey through Southeast Asia. Dishes are designed for sharing, allowing guests to sample a variety of flavors and textures. The pork belly bao and Peking duck are crowd favorites, and the cocktails are crafted to complement the bold flavors of the food. Dragonfly’s combination of innovative dishes and sleek ambiance makes it a great spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Mr. Go’s is a bustling eatery on Taranaki Street, known for its fusion of Asian street food and New Zealand flavors. The vibrant, colorful decor and open kitchen create an energetic atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal with friends. The menu features a range of small plates and larger dishes, with highlights including the soft-shell crab bao and the Sichuan-spiced fried chicken. Mr. Go’s also offers a selection of craft beers and creative cocktails, making it a great spot for a lively night out. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients ensures that every dish is bursting with flavor.
The Larder, located in the suburb of Miramar, offers a taste of modern New Zealand cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. The menu is inspired by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with dishes that are both creative and comforting. The venison with parsnip puree and the market fish with foraged greens are standout options, showcasing the best of New Zealand’s natural bounty. The Larder’s warm, rustic decor and friendly service make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of local wines and craft beers, perfect for pairing with any meal.
Ortega Fish Shack, situated on Majoribanks Street, is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The laid-back, nautical-themed decor sets the tone for a relaxed dining experience, while the menu focuses on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. The fish tacos and the crayfish are particularly popular, and the ever-changing daily specials ensure there’s always something new to try. Ortega’s friendly, knowledgeable staff are happy to offer recommendations and wine pairings, making every visit a delight. The casual, unpretentious atmosphere and consistently excellent food have earned Ortega a loyal following.
Aunty Mena’s on Cuba Street is a haven for vegetarian and vegan diners. This humble eatery offers a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes, all made with fresh, plant-based ingredients. The menu features everything from noodle soups and stir-fries to curries and rice dishes, with standout options including the laksa and the vegan pho. Aunty Mena’s affordable prices and generous portions make it a favorite among students and budget-conscious diners. The casual, no-frills atmosphere is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Sweet Mother’s Kitchen, located on Courtenay Place, offers a unique blend of Creole and Mexican cuisine, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The colorful, eclectic decor creates a fun, relaxed vibe, and the menu is packed with flavorful, hearty dishes. The vegan gumbo and the black bean quesadillas are particular favorites, and the beignets are a must-try for dessert. Sweet Mother’s Kitchen also offers a range of specialty cocktails and craft beers, making it a great spot for a casual night out.
Field & Green, located on Wakefield Street, is a hidden gem known for its European soul food. The menu features a rotating selection of dishes inspired by the owners’ travels, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The slow-cooked lamb shank and the smoked fish kedgeree are standout options, and the homemade ice cream is a perfect way to end the meal. The cozy, unpretentious atmosphere and friendly service make Field & Green a favorite among locals.
Loretta, situated on Cuba Street, offers a laid-back dining experience with a focus on simple, wholesome food. The menu is inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with dishes designed to be shared. The wood-fired flatbreads and the roasted vegetable salads are particularly popular, and the house-made desserts are a treat. Loretta’s minimalist decor and relaxed vibe make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.
Wellington’s diverse culinary scene offers something for every palate and preference. From fine dining establishments like Logan Brown and Hippopotamus to casual eateries such as Fidel’s Café and Sweet Mother’s Kitchen, the city is a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, modern New Zealand dishes, or vegetarian and vegan fare, Wellington’s restaurants provide a wealth of options to explore. The city’s vibrant dining scene, coupled with its friendly, laid-back atmosphere, ensures that every meal in Wellington is a memorable experience.