Some restaurants and cafés come and go. Occasionally, the right combination of menu, location, and imagination creates something that lasts.
3 Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington
The Thistle Inn has stood in the same spot on Mulgrave Street, Thorndon since 1840. It received New Zealand’s second-ever liquor license and is the country’s oldest surviving tavern.
Today the Thistle Inn is an all-day gastropub, with a tasty menu and local wine, beer, and spirits to match. Tours of the historic building are available if you book in advance.
141 Manners Street, Te Aro, Wellington
A lot has changed in Wellington since the 80s. But one thing that has stayed constant is the award-winning cuisine at Great India. The family-run business has been passed down a generation since its opening, but the food remains delicious and flavoursome. Over 60 mains are on offer, balancing classics with modern dishes.
Everything is made from scratch at Great India. Spices and herbs are dried and ground, pickles are fermented, and naan bread is made by hand.
178 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington
The original café for late-night eats, Midnight Espresso stays true to its name. It’s a trusty spot for night owls to get a bite to eat. If you’re an early bird, it’s also got you covered.
Its iconic counter is generously piled high with vegetarian (and often vegan and gluten-free) goodies. Frittatas, pies, sandwiches, cakes, and slices are all beautifully decorated with fruit and flowers. There’s also a vast short-order menu written large on the café wall. High-octane Havana espresso will keep you fuelled all day (or night long).
99 Boulcott Street, Wellington
Opened in 1991, Boulcott Street Bistro is widely regarded as one of Wellington’s finest restaurants.
The restaurant is in Plimmer House, a charming 1870s Victorian cottage. Surrounded by high-rises, it’s a time capsule in the middle of the city.
Boulcott Street Bistro serves classic bistro dishes with modern twists. The ‘BSB Classic’ has been consistently popular since day one. Comprised of an aged fillet of beef with Béarnaise sauce, red wine jus and hand-cut, double-cooked fries, it’s an example of simple done well.
192 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Behind a bold red door on a corner of Cuba Street is Logan Brown. In an imposing 1920s building, the fine-dining restaurant is an icon of the capital’s hospitality scene. It’s been delighting the tastebuds of Wellingtonians and visitors for more than 20 years.
The food focuses on excellent technique and quality ingredients. The set menu changes regularly, but always includes fresh bread, followed by three courses. Flavour combinations are bold and sometimes unexpected, but always delicious.
For people keen to experience contemporary Kiwi kai, Logan Brown is an absolute must. It’s an elevated taste of New Zealand you won’t want to miss.
10 Nevis Street, Petone, Lower Hutt
A piece of Italy in the heart of Petone, La Bella Italia is part restaurant, part deli, and a place to learn more about Italian food and culture.
Owner Antonio Cacace and his wife Luisa opened La Bella Italia in 2000. The menu covers Italian classics, and award-winning pizza. Finish with a tiramisu or affogato for a night straight out of Italy.
As well as serving authentic Italian cuisine, the café sits alongside an extensive retail space. Antonio and Luisa import exclusive, premium Italian products and pantry staples to take home.
22 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington
Large, illuminated letters have stood curving around a Courtenay Place verandah since 2000. Beneath, Hummingbird Eatery and Bar provides an excellent dose of Wellington hospitality.
After a four-year hiatus, the restaurant and bar reopened in 2024. The restaurant offers a modern menu based on European cuisine. Large windows provide a front-row seat to the bustle of Courtenay Place. The adjoining lounge bar offers a place to relax. There's regular live music, with a baby grand piano. Hear live jazz while you sip a cocktail and enjoy the moody ambience.
10 Kent Terrace, Mount Victoria, Wellington
Capitol owners Kate and Tom Hutchison have created a versatile and award-winning eatery. On a vibrant Wellington street corner, it’s a perfect spot to watch the world go by. Sit with a cheeky cocktail, a tasty brunch, or if you’re up for a serious meal book a table for dinner.
Tom fine-tuned his cheffing skills in Auckland, Melbourne, London, and the south of France. Kate, who manages, thinks Tom’s most famous dishes are his parmesan crumbed lamb’s liver and his chocolate pudding. Whatever you taste will be fresh, pure, and uncluttered, and have an amazing balance of flavours.
There’s a reason why they say you can’t beat Wellington on a good day. When it’s one of those days, the capital has a great selection of outside dining options.
Looking for a pre or post-show meal or drink? The St James Theatre is at the heart of Wellington and is surrounded by places to stop off before any event.
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