by Avya Trotter-Hlavac | Photos by Dockside Restaurant & Bar
If you're craving Italian delicacies, Vietnamese street food, or a traditional gastro-pub meal, Wellington has a diverse range of restaurant venues to satisfy your palate. We've handpicked some of the best Wellington restaurants in the city, from waterfront spaces to heritage buildings with centuries of character. Whether you're looking to book a private dining room or an entire venue, you'll be pleased to know that many Wellington restaurants double as event venues. So without further ado, here is our list of Wellington restaurant venues to get you started.
Located within QT Wellington, you'll find Hippopotamus - a chic Restaurant and Cocktail Bar with harbour views, lavish furnishings and decadent menus. Fusing international inspiration with the finest local produce - Hippopotamusis sure to leave a lasting impression.
Housed within Foxglove Bar & Kitchen on Wellington's waterfront sits WOLF. Inspired by New York's opulent steak restaurants, WOLF by Foxglove is a contemporary and carnivorous twist on a traditional concept. The carefully curated menu celebrates the finest cuts of locally sourced New Zealand beef and sustainable seafood with perfectly paired signature sides to accompany your feast.
Waterside dining at its finest, Dockside is a Wellington restaurant venue set in a historic boatshed. The original structure dates back to 1887, and Dockside Restaurant & Bar was born in 1991. The menu draws inspiration from seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of New Zealand seafood and produce. This venue also boasts one of the largest outdoor dining areas over water in the Southern Hemisphere!
Apachè blends Northern Vietnamese hawker street food with a touch of French influence to create a mouth-watering menu. Available for private functions, Apachè is a unique space for dinners, cocktail parties and informal meetings. With dedicated and lively staff and a flair for the creative, Apachè is a Wellington restaurant venue that will make your function as sensational as the menu.
Located in the heart of Wellington, Fratelli is an Italian restaurant with two private function spaces. Indulge in your favourite Italian dishes - including homemade pasta, gnocchi, risotto, and wood-fired pizza. Offering several set menu options, Fratelli caters for up to 60 guests for private dinners and cocktail functions.
Named New Zealand's oldest tavern and restaurant, Thistle Inn has stood tall for over 175 years. In 2023, this iconic landmark continues to function as a venue and restaurant for various events. With three set menus, Thistle Inn serves pub food with a modern twist, combining comfort and sophistication throughout the menu.
Pravda Café and Grill is set within a beautiful heritage building, a short stroll from Queens Wharf. With high vaulted ceilings, crystal chandeliers, a marble interior and generous windows - Pravda offers an elegant space for special occasions. The venue can host 80 guests for a seated dinner or 150 for a cocktail event. Pravda is the quintessential Wellington cafe and restaurant, serving fantastic food complemented by an impressive wine list. At Pravda, a warm welcome always awaits you.
St John's Bar & Eatery is a restaurant venue located within an iconic art deco building. With a contemporary dining menu, local craft beers, international tap beers, regional wines, and cocktails - St John's Bar & Eatery has something for every palate. Complete with semi to fully private event spaces, audiovisual equipment, dedicated staff and first-class harbour views - discover St John's Bar & Eatery for your next soiree.
A relaxed space for your next event, Southern Cross Garden Bar is a Wellington restaurant venue deeply rooted in the community. Founded over 100 years ago, Southern Cross Garden Bar hosts regular quiz nights, live gigs and art classes. "Here at The Cross, we love taking care of our guests – and what better way to show that than with food! We believe in cooking from scratch, offering top-notch nibbles, mains and home baking."
