A local favourite since 2002, Capitol is a vibrant, family-run restaurant. Its bistro-style menu takes full advantage of seasonal local produce.
Consistently ranked as one of Wellington’s top restaurants, Capitol has operated from its busy corner next to Embassy Theatre for more than 20 years.
Just off Courtenay Place, you can treat yourself to a classic trattoria-style restaurant. The tastes and sounds of Italy are carefully crafted at Nicolini’s. Founded in 1997 by Raffaele Abbate, the restaurant’s mission has always been to bring age-old Neapolitan recipes to the city. The chefs use as much fresh local produce as possible, while speciality ingredients are imported to maintain the authenticity of recipes. The wine list is a mix of Italian, New Zealand, and Australian drops. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with low lighting, and candles on every table. Some nights of the week you’ll get serenaded by a live singer accompanying themselves on a baby grand piano. Everything is just bellissimo.
You’ll feel a world away from the bustle of Courtenay Place at Dragonfly. With intimate dining areas and an atmospheric courtyard out the back, it’s an easy spot to spend an evening.
Enjoy modern Asian cuisine designed for sharing. The menu spans the continent, offering classic dishes with contemporary twists. Dumplings, curry, salads, and snacks all reflect the seasonal produce and regional flavour highlights.
Dragonfly’s bar and bamboo courtyard are excellent for sampling their cocktails. Classics and newer creations are available, and look just as good as they taste.
Climb some unassuming stairs on Courtenay Place and you’ll find a unique space hidden away from the buzz below. Inspired by the early spice trade, CGR Merchant & Co specialises in unique gin and rum infusions. Salted caramel rum is one of the signature flavours, but there are plenty more adventurous options. The extensive cocktail list is complimented by a simple food menu of small bites.
Paying homage to the original building tenant the Colonial Government Railway Department, the décor at CGR is rustic. Burnt orange walls, burlap sacks, exposed rafters, and hanging plants decorate the bar.
Drawing inspiration from Hawaii to Aotearoa, Lulu offers a distinctly Pacific hospitality experience. With a mantra of ‘Oceanic eats, drink, party’, it’s a fun and lively place to stop in for a meal or drink.
The modern share plate menu and cocktails list spans diverse palates. You might find things like rum-spiced crispy chicken or eggplant roulades. The walls are adorned with greenery and Pacific imagery making for a fun ambience. The latter half of the week brings live music and DJs. A great atmosphere to settle down with a caramelised pineapple pina colada or island-time perfect martini.
Step out of the bright lights and fast pace of Courtenay Place, ascend the flight of stairs, push open the door to The Library and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a new world.
The Library opened in 2009 and has built a reputation for its cocktails and decadent desserts. The bar is comprised of intimate booths and cosy nooks, surrounded by shelves lined with books (we’re talking real, actual books). Oozing warmth and old-world charm, the bar is dimly lit by table lamps and vintage framed prints adorn the walls.
Home to all things Welsh, The Welsh Dragon is believed to be the only bar of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Set inside a former public toilet, the quirky pub draws in locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a pint of traditional Welsh ale or want to take in some live music, the Welsh offers a variety of entertainment. The pub quizzes have a passionate following.
Inside the distinct building, the walls are adorned with Welsh history and Tom Jones memorabilia. If you find yourself there in summer, take advantage of the outdoor beer garden.
Get a taste of Asia at this casual and cool restaurant. You’ll find Chow up a flight of stairs on Tory Street. The relaxed restaurant has plenty of cosy booths and tucked-away corners for a date night, or big tables for the whole crew. Come for lunch, dinner, or late-night snacks and cocktails.
The Asian-inspired menu features highlights from across the continent. The concept is big flavours on small plates, so it’s best to share everything with the table. There’s a vegan menu, too, so everyone is catered for. Popular among locals, the cocktails are as pretty to look at as they are fun to drink.
Hideout will take you on a tour of Asian flavours from its Courtenay Place location. The pan-Asian menu covers a range of cuisines in a relaxed, casual environment. The menu is divided into bite-sized sections. Snacks, dumplings, bao buns, and rice and noodles will leave you feeling full.
Hideout’s owner Wen is all about creating a space for people to retreat and connect — hence the name. He aims to recreate the magic of finding a place to relax and enjoy great food amid the hustle and bustle of the streets of Asia.
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.
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. Whether day or night check out these spaces for fair-weather dining and drinks.
Up a flight of winding stairs or down a laneway, these are Wellington’s best-kept secret bars.
Part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Wellington is the perfect place to sample a local drop (or two). The city’s wine bars offer tasty food, a relaxing ambience, and, of course, an impressive selection from the cellar. Natural or biodynamic? Local, or from further afield? Take your pick at these wine bars around Wellington.
If you want to have a fun day or night out in Wellington there are plenty of options in the city. Why not think outside the box and try something different.
Shaken or stirred, the capital’s bartenders know how to make a mean cocktail. Revisit a classic, or ask for something made specially for you. These cocktail bars have a tipple or two to tempt your tastebuds.
If the way to your date’s heart is through their stomach, Wellington has plenty of options to keep them happy.
Got something to celebrate? Or just feeling fancy? Wellington restaurants know how to make you feel special. Try out these top-tier places for your next big occasion — whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or just a Wednesday.
Home of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the St James Theatre is the jewel in the crown of Wellington’s flourishing theatre scene.
Warm hospitality and big flavours are served in equal measure at this Burmese restaurant in the heart of Wellington.