Where to eat, drink, and be merry on Cuba Street

Day-time coffee recharge 

Coffee fuels the city and is found up and down Cuba Street. Try cute café Orange, where much of the food reflects its name. Floriditas is open during the day for breakfast and lunch, then reopens for quality evening kai . Its high ceilings and dark wood make for stylish surroundings. Fred’s specialises in takeaway gourmet sandwiches to grab with coffee, while Cuba Street stalwart Midnight Espresso Café has been serving the goods since 1989. 

Meals inspired from afar 

There are so many great restaurants to discover, and many offer flavours from beyond Aotearoa’s shores. For South Asian and Malaysian fare, the fiery red interior of Rasa beckons. Kisa recreates sublime Middle Eastern and Turkish dishes in a beautiful space. The aroma of an open fire grill greets you at El Matador. It’s the only place to find Argentinian Asado (barbecuing) in Wellington. Italy is well represented on the strip. Bacaro (backstreet restaurants in Venice) inspired Ombra’s menu, made up of modern small plates. Scopa and Nolita are renowned for pizza and Italian fare, with the latter specialising in plant-based recipes. The concept at 1154 Pastaria is simple: fresh handmade pasta topped with classic sauces, made to order. At stylish Chinese restaurant Hei, you’ll find freshly prepared classics like Peking duck, bao, tom yum, and Sichuan chicken. 

For a special occasion 

If you’re looking to make a night of it, Cuba Street has options to spoil yourself. The chefs at Highwater are experts in pickling, smoking, curing and fermenting. The kitchen’s charcoal oven also ensures food is full of rich tastes. For bold flavour combinations in a distinguished setting, Logan Brown should be on your list. Since 1996, the chefs have concentrated on excellent technique and quality ingredients. The offering at Liberty is similar — international cuisines inspire the intriguing menu. Share plates add a level of informality to the fine-dining experience. 

Rest your elbows on the bar 

With so much foot traffic, Cuba Street has, of course, attracted a bevy of good bars. Heyday’s minty exterior makes it stand out. The brewery on-site makes it easy to supply the bar with the latest concoction. Out front, there are picnic tables, beanbags, and games. Down the road and below the ground, you’ll find Dee’s Place. This subterranean whiskey bar fills the needs of those in need of something strong. Among its huge collection, is one of the city’s biggest selections of American whiskeys. 

Keeping it calm and casual 

If you’re looking for low-key but don't want to scrimp on service, Cuba Street won’t disappoint. Cuba Street Tavern is much more than what its name suggests. Head there for morning coffee and sweet treat, a laid-back brunch, late-night drinks, or a weekend relaxing in the courtyard. Loretta is best known for its wood-fired pizzas, made using interesting toppings like fresh figs, asparagus, or roast peaches. The menu ranges much wider than pizza, with Mediterranean flavours a theme. With the famous Bucket Fountain outside, The Ram is in the thick of it. It may be small, but it packs a punch. It offers refined takes on pub classics along with an excellent wine list and Negronis on tap.