Logan Brown
Open the big red doors on Cuba Street to find a Wellington institution of fine-dining.
118 Victoria Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Tucked away in a little laneway off Victoria Street is a bar with a warmth that doesn’t just come from its cosy size or low lighting.
There’s a feeling of familiarity wrapped up in the quirky, yet classy interior. Kuikui Lane is authentic, sophisticated, and somehow homely. It’s also Kiwi through and through.
Primarily a gin and cocktail bar, it’s Kuikui’s artful and subtle creativity that sets its menu and mixology apart.
It’s also unique in its ingredient choices. All the bar’s food and drink products are from Aotearoa, showcasing the breadth and quality of locally made.
What really underpins this place is the emphasis on manaakitanga — taking care of people. Owners Riann Umaga-Marshall and Hamish Mexted both come from families who base their lives around looking after their whānau and communities.
“Putting kai on and making sure everyone has a drink in hand is something that comes naturally to us,” says Riann. “From cocktails to a cup of tea with the aunties, kai and drink have been part of our upbringing. Kuikui Lane is a tribute not only to our Kuia (nans and aunties) but to all of those who shaped the way we think about manaaki tangata”.
“Putting kai on and making sure everyone has a drink in hand is something that comes naturally to us.”
Alongside cocktails and a comprehensive local gin list, the food at Kuikui Lane is simple, Kiwi classics. Rīhi Tohatoha (sharing boards) offer cheese, meats, breads, and chutneys. You can even indulge in a bit of Kiwiana and order the Kuikui mince savouries served with a classic tomato-shaped bottle of Wattie’s sauce.
If you have a penchant for creative, innovative flavours and enjoy a bit of sophistication, but still crave a good dose of homely comfort, it’s well worth taking a little trip down Kuikui Lane.
Open the big red doors on Cuba Street to find a Wellington institution of fine-dining.
There’s a whole world of flavour on offer at Mr Go’s.
A local favourite since 2002, Capitol is a vibrant, family-run restaurant with a bistro-style menu.
Encompassing a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, and barrel hall space, The Runholder offers an exquisite hospitality experience in Martinborough.
You’ll feel right at home at this cosy Newtown spot that’s part restaurant, part wine bar.
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.
A modern take on popular Northern Vietnamese hawker street food, with a touch of French influence.
Find seasonal and foraged ingredients and innovation aplenty at Wellington’s leading vegetarian restaurant.
Fresh fish, steak fries, and sherry are all on offer at Wellington’s favourite seafood restaurant.
Come as you are to this relaxed bar meets pub at the heart of Cuba Street.
Eclectic and quirky, Seashore Cabaret serves up fun and fast diner food with views across the Petone foreshore.
Come together at this Martinborough restaurant, where an old bank has been transformed with classic, contemporary flair.
Gear Street Union is a bright and busy haven of drinks, diner-style food, and fun.
Home to the Good Fortune Coffee Co., this quirky little café serves up fair trade coffee and vibrant cabinet food.