Supra is a Wellington restaurant that goes over and above

If you're wandering around central Wellington, it can pay to look up. Depending on the street, you could spy the famous Bucket Fountain, a historic building facade, or a head-scratching modern art installation. If you're on Dixon Street, you might spot a cosy, hidden away restaurant: Supra.

With a front row seat to the busy city below and across the road from The Opera House, Supra is right in the thick of it. But, its unusual (for Wellington) placement on a first storey makes it feel like a well-kept secret. The understated signage on the tucked-away staircase (painted a suitably discreet black) adds to the mystery. As owner and head chef Tom Millott puts it: “it's a ‘if you know you know’ kind of thing.”

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Once you're in the know, head upstairs to find a relaxed, pared-back space. Hand-picked records from Tom's home collection add to the personality. With large wrap-around windows, the city's evening light is the decoration. The restaurant seats 18, and diners sit mostly in the window in cosy couples, a perfect vantage point for people-watching below. Groups can nab the larger table in the centre, or perch at the bar where you can see the other star of the show — the kitchen.

With a wealth of hospitality experience in both Aotearoa and Australia, Tom draws from a range of inspiration to create the menu. Plates vary in size, allowing diners to choose their own adventure. “It's designed to share, but you don't have to. If you want to have one or two things to yourself, that's fine. And if you want to get a bunch, go for it.”

Tom Millott is the owner and head chef of Supra.

Everything is about “just making things delicious.” This can mean finding new ways to use ingredients, or keeping ahead of food trends. The offering changes with season, supply, or whatever inspires the team.

The drinks list reflects the evolving and modern nature of the menu. Heavy on natural wine, you'll find drops from local vineyards and further afield, along with considered beer and spirits.

The restaurant's name is a happy coincidence. Tom picked it just because he liked it. But Supra by definition means ‘over’ or ‘above’ — a nod to both its location above the city, and the elevated dining experience on offer.

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