The Larder
Found in a grand old house, this Miramar-based daytime eatery balances fine food with hearty café fare.
122 Wakefield Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Hanoi meets Paris in the centre of Wellington. A popular spot for lunch and dinner, Apachè serves up Vietnamese-inspired dishes infused with elements from France. Local ingredients are mixed with fragrant herbs in dishes designed to be shared, just like in the busy streets of Hanoi.
Owner and chef Le Minh’s inspiration for opening Apachè was to cook the foods he grew up with and loved sharing with people. Having grown up in an area of Vietnam once occupied by the French, there is a strong French influence on Le’s food and culture. He manages to fuse multiple cuisines for maximum flavour. Balancing spicy, salty, sour, sweet and bitter flavours perfectly in elevated street foods, Apachè is a masterclass in why simple is often better.
If you’re not sure where to start, a standout is the Bang Bang chicken salad. The dish is a permanent fixture and a local favourite, according to Le. But don’t limit yourself to just one dish. Apachè comes into its own when enjoyed in a group. Order a bit of everything from curries to bao buns to noodles and rice, and share among the group, family style.
Apachè opened on Wakefield Street in 2015, and has been a strong favourite with both locals and visitors since. Housed in a heritage building, it’s the perfect nod to the old meets new ethos of the restaurant. Decorative tiled flooring sits below your feet, while industrial light fixtures hang above. You’re surrounded by a lush array of plants and foliage that remind you of the jungles of Vietnam.
Found in a grand old house, this Miramar-based daytime eatery balances fine food with hearty café fare.
There’s a whole world of flavour on offer at Mr Go’s.
Housed in a prominent heritage building, Salty Pidgin provides bistro food and a local gathering point in Brooklyn Village.
Warm hospitality and big flavours are served in equal measure at this Burmese restaurant in the heart of Wellington.
Encompassing a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, and barrel hall space, The Runholder offers an exquisite hospitality experience in Martinborough.
Hot dogs and wine are the combination you didn’t know you needed at this relaxed rooftop bar.
Owned a run by a pair of brothers, this Cuba Street institution serves up wood-fired pizzas and old-school charm.
Go where the locals go at this stylish inner city café and bakery.
Eclectic and quirky, Seashore Cabaret serves up fun and fast diner food with views across the Petone foreshore.
Gear Street Union is a bright and busy haven of drinks, diner-style food, and fun.
Experience yum cha and community at this award-winning family-run restaurant.
Masters of artisan bread and baked goods, Dough Bakery offers a range of loaves, sweet treats, and pastries.
Inspired by the backstreet restaurants of Venice, Ombra is Wellington’s very own bacaro, serving modern Italian small plates.
A downtown Wellington classic, where deals are made over great coffee and great food.
You’ll feel like you’re part of the family at this Greek restaurant in the suburbs, where old recipes are given modern twists.