Where to eat, drink, and be merry on Cuba Street
For many, Cuba Street captures the spirit of Wellington. It’s quirky, bustling, and full of creative life.
It’s easy to spot Jano Bistro on Willis Street. The fine dining restaurant resides in a bright yellow colonial cottage topped with an old weather vane. A narrow verandah welcomes you into a homely and relaxed space. Jano Bistro offers finely crafted food conjured from the imagination of head chef Pierre-Alain Fenoux. Guests can choose from a sharing plate or degustation menu. Both menus change regularly depending on seasonal availability.
“The concept is a farm-to-table restaurant,” says Pierre. “Using as much local produce as we can. Everything is homemade, fresh, and cooked on fire.” The inspiration for this approach can be traced back to Pierre’s childhood. He grew up in the Savoie region of France. As a child, he spent time foraging in the garden with his grandfather, nicknamed Jano. Together they looked for snails, mushrooms, and other items that made their way into delicious meals cooked by Pierre’s grandmother. When Pierre opened the restaurant in 2014 with co-owner Diana Goh, he named it in remembrance of his grandfather.
These days, Pierre has a small kitchen garden. Herbs and other produce from the garden often feature in the dishes at the restaurant. Though the menu often changes, some favourites remain. These include the lamb, Straight Spear fish, and Pierre’s signature 12-hour red cabbage. All dishes are characterised by creativity and freshness. “People think we are a very French restaurant and you’re going to find onion soup or crème brûlée,” says Pierre. “Sometimes you do, but not in the way you expect it.”
The drinks menu features local and international wines from big-name vineyards as well as some more niche drops. Priority is always given to wine that matches the food. You’ll also find craft beers, spirits, aperitifs, digestives, and seasonal homemade non-alcoholic drinks.
The dining areas are neutral-toned, calm, and relaxing. Most tables are upstairs, with some space reserved on the ground floor for those who want to avoid stairs. Downstairs also has a fireplace for the cosy seasons and garden views.
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