Where to eat near the stadium

Get a serving of Kiwi comfort food with fresh, local, and sustainable produce. Eating at Daisy’s feels like a seat at your mum’s dining table. You can’t go wrong with menu items like half-roast chicken, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, and smoked new potatoes. The bistro’s name is a nod to Aunt Daisy, a well-known New Zealand radio personality and cook from yesteryear. Asher Boote, the award-winning chef and owner, says Daisy could be anyone of a certain age who knows how to throw a great dinner party.

On Wellington’s waterfront, Foxglove is a blend of 1930s vintage glamour and West Hollywood lounge. Spacious but made to feel intimate, Foxglove has menu options to suit all appetites. From shareable antipasto boards to hearty wagyu steaks. Pick a table that takes in the sweeping harbour views, open fireplaces, or one of the largest living green walls in New Zealand. With two levels of indoor and outdoor seating, there are plenty of options for large groups or couples. Watch the sun go down amidst the waterfront vibe.

The Backbencher has been a constant in the Thorndon precinct since the early 1900s. The iconic pub has welcomed many Members of Parliament (MPs) from the New Zealand parliament buildings across the road. In a nod to its famous patrons, the walls are decorated with larger-than-life satirical puppets of MPs past and present. If you look carefully, you’ll find the odd sportsperson as well. Sit beneath a sculpture of the prime minister with a beer from one of the 20 taps. The menu has plenty of classics, all hearty and tasty. Sweetcorn fritters, beer-battered market fish, and mac and cheese will keep you happy.

The Thistle Inn has stood in the same spot on Mulgrave Street, Thorndon since 1840. It received New Zealand’s second-ever liquor license and is the country’s oldest surviving tavern. Today, the Thistle Inn is an all-day gastropub with a menu varied to cater to your needs. You can choose small bites to go with your beer or sit down to some serious bistro options. The chefs enjoy creating dishes that challenge traditional ideas of tavern food. Tours of the historic building are available if you book in advance.

A fun, lowkey, intimate atmosphere on a busy inner-city road, Plonk brightens the business end of Wellington’s central city. With share plates inspired by French classics, an impressive wine list, and live DJs, it appeals to the after-work drinks crowd, diners, and music lovers. Its mix of moody lighting and laid-back sophistication makes for the perfect place for a quiet drink. It’s also close to the stadium, railway station, and waterfront. For great live music, food, and a quality bottle of plonk head into the city and plonk yourself down in a seat.

It’s big, it’s proud, it’s loud. Master Kong makes a statement with a wild mix of Asian fusion food and bright décor. With bamboo panels, large lanterns, and jungle-inspired wallpaper the waterfront restaurant leans heavily into its theme. The street-food inspired menu has a huge selection of delicious dishes designed for sharing. As the menu says, it’s a ‘banquet fit for emperor or urchin’. On the drinks menu look out for the limited-edition handcrafted cocktails. The place is the perfect spot for date night, work lunches, or group celebrations.

With a name like Flamingo Joe’s, you have to expect a bit of flamboyance. This harbourside tiki bar and eatery serves plenty of flourish and fun. From brightly coloured cabaret-style chairs to neon signs the ultra-modern venue is a fun stop-off for a drink or meal. Its simple hearty menu keeps all ages happy including vegans who have a separate selection available. Being on Waterloo Quay makes it very accessible to waterfront walkers, businesspeople, and those on the way to the stadium or railway station.