Quick answers — eating in Wellington
- Best restaurant overall
- Hiakai
- Best value
- Amok (NZD 90-130 / USD 55-80)
- Strongest cuisines
- Modern European, Seafood, Asian fusion, Steak & grill
- Dishes to try
- Fish and Chips, Whitebait Fritter, Flat White Coffee, Hāngi Pie
- Booking window
- For Wellington's most acclaimed restaurants, securing a reservation 2-4 weeks in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Popular spots like Hiakai can require booking months ahead due to limited seating and high demand.
Bookings for top restaurants are essential, often weeks in advance. The dress code is generally smart casual, with some establishments leaning towards more formal attire. Tipping is not customary or expected in New Zealand. Dinner hours typically run from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with later sittings available on weekends.
Modern European
Best modern European restaurants in Wellington
Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
Hiakai
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Māori · Mount Cook · NZD 180-240 / USD 110-150
Monique Fiso
Hiakai offers a unique exploration of Māori and Polynesian ingredients and cooking techniques, presented with contemporary elegance. Chef Monique Fiso's tasting menus are a journey through indigenous flavors, celebrated in an intimate setting that feels both educational and deeply personal. It's a culinary experience unlike any other in the region, championing native produce.
Order: Kahawai, Rewena bread
Shepherd
Acclaimed local fine diningModern New Zealand · Hannahs Laneway · NZD 110-160 / USD 70-100
Shepherd Elliott
Shepherd offers an inventive take on contemporary New Zealand cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seasonal produce and bold, balanced flavors. The dishes are designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience in its stylish, industrial-chic setting. Chef Shepherd Elliott's creativity and commitment to quality ingredients are evident in every plate, making it a dynamic culinary destination.
Order: Smoked eel, Duck fat potatoes
Boulcott Street Bistro
Acclaimed local fine diningModern European · CBD · NZD 100-140 / USD 60-90
A long-standing Wellington favourite, Boulcott Street Bistro offers classic bistro fare with refined execution in an elegant, historic setting. The menu features perennial favourites alongside seasonal specials, all prepared with an emphasis on quality ingredients and timeless technique. Its consistent excellence and sophisticated ambiance make it a reliable choice for a polished dining experience.
Order: Fish of the Day, Beef Fillet
Floriditas
Acclaimed local fine diningModern European · Cuba Street · NZD 90-130 / USD 55-80
Floriditas is a beloved, stylish eatery known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and comforting, well-executed dishes. It offers an all-day dining experience, from exceptional breakfasts to sophisticated dinners, in a chic, European-inspired setting. The restaurant embodies a relaxed elegance, providing a consistently high-quality meal with a commitment to local produce and excellent service.
Order: Market Fish, Duck Confit
Concorde & Co
Acclaimed local fine diningModern New Zealand · CBD · NZD 110-160 / USD 70-100
Concorde & Co presents a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on modern New Zealand cuisine, integrating international influences. The menu is crafted around high-quality, seasonal ingredients, executed with precision and flair. The elegant setting and refined service make it an ideal spot for special occasions or a luxurious meal in the heart of the city, offering a curated culinary journey.
Order: Wagyu Beef, Scallops
Seafood
Best seafood restaurants in Wellington
Seafood restaurants live or die on the day's catch — the shortest menus are usually the best sign, because the kitchen is cooking what actually came in.
Ortega Fish Shack & Bar
Acclaimed local fine diningSeafood · Te Aro · NZD 100-150 / USD 60-95
A Wellington institution, Ortega consistently delivers expertly prepared seafood in a vibrant, unpretentious atmosphere. The focus is on fresh, sustainable catches, often simply grilled or pan-fried, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. The warm, inviting dining room and attentive service make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking excellent seafood.
Order: Pan-fried market fish, Crayfish
Asian fusion
Best Asian fusion restaurants in Wellington
Fusion kitchens work across Asian traditions rather than inside one — best judged on whether the combinations actually taste deliberate.
Amok
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Southeast Asian · Te Aro · NZD 90-130 / USD 55-80
Chefs de Cuisine
Amok brings vibrant, contemporary Southeast Asian flavours to Wellington, showcasing a playful yet sophisticated approach to classic dishes. The menu is designed for sharing, inviting guests to explore a diverse range of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. The lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails complement the bold and engaging culinary journey offered.
Order: Prawn & Coconut Curry, Crispy Pork Belly
Steak & grill
Best steak and grill restaurants in Wellington
Grill rooms are about sourcing and fire: ask where the beef comes from, how long it was aged, and order one cut to share rather than two on separate plates.
Charley Noble Eatery & Bar
Acclaimed local fine diningWood-fired Grill · CBD · NZD 90-140 / USD 55-85
Charley Noble excels in wood-fired cooking, offering a menu centered around high-quality meats and seafood cooked over an open flame. The casual yet refined atmosphere, combined with the smoky aromas and robust flavors, creates a memorable dining experience. It's a perfect spot for those seeking hearty, well-prepared dishes with a distinct char and deep flavor profiles.
Order: Wood-fired steak, Roasted market fish
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Wellington
R&S Satay Noodle House
A long-standing favorite for authentic Malaysian and Indonesian comfort food. Their laksa and satay skewers are legendary, offering rich, flavorful broths and perfectly grilled meats at excellent value. Expect generous portions for around NZD 15-20.
Mount Vic Chippery
For classic New Zealand fish and chips done right, head here. They offer fresh, sustainably sourced fish, cooked to perfection with crispy batter, alongside hand-cut chips and gourmet condiments. A substantial meal will cost approximately NZD 15-25.
Aroy Thai
Consistently praised for its vibrant and authentic Thai dishes, Aroy Thai serves up curries, noodles, and stir-fries that are both delicious and affordable. It's a popular spot for a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner, with mains typically priced NZD 18-25.
Fidels Cafe
A lively Cuba Street institution, Fidels offers Cuban-inspired fare from hearty breakfasts to satisfying burgers and sandwiches. Their 'Big Breakfast' is a local legend, providing substantial portions in a bustling, eclectic atmosphere. Meals generally range from NZD 18-30.
Roti Chenai
Specializing in delicious Malaysian roti, this simple spot is perfect for a quick, satisfying and budget-friendly meal. Enjoy flaky, buttery roti served with flavorful curries and sambal. A meal often costs less than NZD 15, making it a fantastic value.
Local dishes
What to eat in Wellington
Fish and Chips
A classic takeaway dish, fresh local fish (often hoki or snapper) battered and deep-fried, served with hot chips. Enjoy this quintessential Kiwi meal by the waterfront for the full experience. Head to Te Papa Cafe or The Crab Shack for quality versions of this beloved dish.
Whitebait Fritter
A New Zealand delicacy, featuring tiny juvenile whitebait fish lightly bound in egg, fried into a delicate patty, and served with lemon and bread. It's a seasonal treat, typically available from late August to November. Find it at Shed 5 Bar & Restaurant on the waterfront.
Flat White Coffee
While not a dish, the flat white is New Zealand's iconic coffee creation: espresso with steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of microfoam. Wellington is a coffee mecca, so a perfectly crafted flat white is a must. Try it at Flight Coffee Hangar or Customs Brew Bar.
Hāngi Pie
A modern take on the traditional Māori hāngi, where food is cooked in an earth oven. This pie features tender meat (often chicken or pork) and vegetables with a smoky flavour, encased in pastry. Look for it at The Kai Store in the city, offering authentic Māori cuisine.
Cheese Scones
A staple in New Zealand cafes, these savoury scones are generously studded with cheese and often served warm with butter. They are a popular breakfast or morning tea item. Pravda Café & Grill is renowned for its excellent, substantial cheese scones.
Scallop Pie
A beloved seafood pie featuring fresh scallops in a creamy, savoury sauce, encased in flaky pastry. This delicious and comforting dish is a local favourite. You can find excellent scallop pies at various bakeries, including Little Grocer on Ghuznee Street.
Craft Beer
Wellington is New Zealand's craft beer capital, boasting numerous microbreweries and brewpubs. Explore a wide array of styles from IPAs to stouts, often using local ingredients. Visit Garage Project Taproom or Fork & Brewer for a comprehensive tasting experience.
Pavlova
A classic meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, marshmallow-like interior, typically topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. While its origin is debated, it's a firm favourite in New Zealand. Enjoy a slice at Floriditas on Cuba Street.
How to book a table in Wellington
- · For Wellington's most acclaimed restaurants, securing a reservation 2-4 weeks in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Popular spots like Hiakai can require booking months ahead due to limited seating and high demand.
- · Many fine dining establishments in Wellington may require a credit card guarantee to hold a reservation, and some might implement a cancellation fee for no-shows or late cancellations, so always review their specific policies.
- · Consider dining at lunch if available, as some upscale restaurants offer a condensed or slightly less expensive tasting menu during midday. This can be an excellent way to experience the chef's cuisine without the full evening commitment.
- · Always reconfirm your reservation a day or two prior to dining. While not always mandatory, it helps ensure your table is secured and allows the restaurant to prepare for your arrival, contributing to a smoother experience.
FAQ
Wellington restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Wellington?
Hiakai in Mount Cook is the benchmark table — Modern Māori, led by Monique Fiso, acclaimed local fine dining, around NZD 180-240 / USD 110-150 per person. Order the Kahawai, Rewena bread
Where is the best modern European restaurant in Wellington?
Hiakai in Mount Cook is the modern European table to book in Wellington (NZD 180-240 / USD 110-150 per person). Other strong options: Shepherd, Boulcott Street Bistro, Floriditas.
Where is the best seafood restaurant in Wellington?
Ortega Fish Shack & Bar in Te Aro is the seafood table to book in Wellington (NZD 100-150 / USD 60-95 per person).
Where is the best Asian fusion restaurant in Wellington?
Amok in Te Aro is the Asian fusion table to book in Wellington (NZD 90-130 / USD 55-80 per person).
Where is the best steak and grill restaurant in Wellington?
Charley Noble Eatery & Bar in CBD is the steak and grill table to book in Wellington (NZD 90-140 / USD 55-85 per person).
Where can I eat well in Wellington without spending a fortune?
Amok is the best-value table on this list at roughly NZD 90-130 / USD 55-80 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to R&S Satay Noodle House, Mount Vic Chippery, Aroy Thai.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Wellington?
For Wellington's most acclaimed restaurants, securing a reservation 2-4 weeks in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Popular spots like Hiakai can require booking months ahead due to limited seating and high demand. Many fine dining establishments in Wellington may require a credit card guarantee to hold a reservation, and some might implement a cancellation fee for no-shows or late cancellations, so always review their specific policies.
What food is Wellington famous for?
Fish and Chips, Whitebait Fritter, Flat White Coffee, Hāngi Pie, Cheese Scones — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A classic takeaway dish, fresh local fish (often hoki or snapper) battered and deep-fried, served with hot chips. Enjoy this quintessential Kiwi meal by the waterfront for the full experience. Head to Te Papa Cafe or The Crab Shack for quality versions of this beloved dish.
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