Best Date Night Restaurants in Wellington (2026)

Wellington's intimate restaurant scene makes it one of New Zealand's most romantic cities for a meal out. These are the spots you want to bring someone special.

95 places

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Graze Wine Bar

4.9(332)

wine bar · Kelburn

A wine bar in the Kelburn village with a thoughtful and ethical focus.

new zealand wines seasonal cocktails small sharing dishes

332 reviews

Leafee Cafe

4.9(205)

cafe · Thorndon

Reviewers consistently praise the high-quality food, excellent service, and cozy atmosphere, making it a favorite spot.

205 reviews

Lovy's Eatery

4.9(211)

restaurant · Te Aro

Welcome to Lovy’s Eatery, your go-to spot for delicious food and warm hospitality right in the heart of Te Aro, Wellington. We take pride in serving our community with meals that are full of flavor, freshness, and love.

appetizers delicious food desserts

147 reviews

Macha, Jom Tapau!

4.9(203)

malaysian restaurant · Te Aro

Welcome to Macha, Jom Tapau!, where the vibrant flavours of Malaysia come alive in Wellington. Our café brings you a delightful selection of classic Malaysian dishes, each one crafted with the finest fresh and high-quality ingredients.

authentic malaysian food coconut rice lentil curry

203 reviews

Margot

4.9(116)

restaurant · entrance via Wilson Street

Margot focuses on seasonal produce, offering a menu that changes often to highlight the best ingredients available.

artisan fine dining new zealand cuisine

116 reviews

$$ - $$$

Mimosa Kitchen

4.9(205)

sushi restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the fresh and tasty food, as well as the friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.

asian vietnamese

205 reviews

Next Door

4.9(20)

bar · via Wilson Street

Reviewers consistently praise the amazing drinks, friendly service, and the inviting atmosphere of the bar.

20 reviews

Ngon!

4.9(653)

restaurant · Mount Victoria

Rooted in my family’s legacy of cooking and inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Vietnam, Ngon brings together the familiar and the unexpected.

asian fusion bao buns curry

456 reviews

$$ - $$$

Rosella

4.9(210)

restaurant · Mount Victoria

Rosella is a neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar drawing inspiration from Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern flavours.

contemporary mediterranean middle eastern

210 reviews

West Two Espresso

4.9(259)

coffee shop · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the rich flavor of the coffee and the warm, friendly service, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

259 reviews

Double Vision Brewing - Brewery, Bar and Fillery

4.8(229)

brewery · Park Road

Enter DVB's Taproom, the window to your Brewery. Dogs and babies frolic together in hoppiness. Taste our beers and our mates’ brews.

bar snacks brewery food family-friendly

229 reviews

Garage Project Aro Taproom

4.8(495)

bar · Aro Valley

Welcome to our Aro Valley taproom Just up from the brewery and over the road is our taproom at 91 Aro, a cosy neighbourhood pub for locals and visitors alike!

alcoholic lemonade craft beer ipa

495 reviews

Garage Project Wild Workshop Taproom & Cellar Door

4.8(68)

brewery · Te Aro

Welcome to the Wild Workshop, our playground for creating all things wild and wonderful: barrel-aged sours, spontaneous ferments and tanks brimming with fruit.

barrel-aged sours craft beer spontaneous ferments

68 reviews

$$$$

Hillside Kitchen

4.8(804)

restaurant · Thorndon

Hillside Kitchen & Cellar offers a plant-focused dining experience with menus based on seasonal ingredients and foraged items.

european healthy new zealand

804 reviews

$$ - $$$

KAZAGURUMA Japanese Dining

4.8(244)

japanese restaurant · Te Aro

KAZAGURUMA offers contemporary Japanese style dining in Wellington for anyone looking to have a cosy dining experience while relishing genuine Japanese cuisine and drinks.

asian contemporary japanese dining genuine japanese cuisine

244 reviews

$$ - $$$

Liberty Restaurant

4.8(969)

restaurant · Te Aro

Liberty Restaurant in Wellington is a place where unfussy dishes full of flavour and intrigue are made to be shared. Using the best seasonal ingredients from Aotearoa New Zealand and inspired by flavours of the world.

asian flavours of the world healthy

392 reviews

Muthus South Indian & Malaysian

4.8(622)

restaurant · Strathmore Park

Muthu's offers a unique variety of dishes based on South Indian and Malaysian traditions, providing an authentic dining experience with a touch of sophistication.

authentic dairy-free options fusion cuisine

622 reviews

$$$

Ortega Fish Shack

4.8(1,311)

seafood restaurant · Mount Victoria

Popular locale offering upscale, creative fish dishes & steaks in a relaxed & bustling atmosphere.

seafood

1,311 reviews

Pango Pearl - Wellington

4.8(113)

restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the authentic South Indian food and friendly service, making it a favorite spot in Wellington.

113 reviews

$$ - $$$

Rita

4.8(484)

restaurant · Aro Valley

We make a new three course menu every night, using the best local and seasonal produce.

contemporary european local ingredients

484 reviews

WOLF by Foxglove

4.8(742)

restaurant · Wellington Central

Housed within Foxglove Bar & Kitchen on Wellington’s waterfront, WOLF by Foxglove is a contemporary and carnivorous twist on a traditional concept, celebrating the finest cuts of locally sourced New Zealand beef and sustainable seafood.

fine wines signature sides steak restaurant

198 reviews

Apache Restaurant

4.7(1,564)

vietnamese restaurant · Te Aro

Polished operation crafting refined, intricate Vietnamese delicacies with a French influence.

angus beef chicken eggs

1,564 reviews

$$ - $$$

Araucaria

4.7(280)

meal takeaway · Berhampore

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious pizzas, especially the prosciutto pizza, and the overall great experience.

beer restaurants mediterranean spanish

280 reviews

Curry Garden

4.7(134)

indian restaurant · Thorndon

Curry Garden is more than just a dining destination—it’s an experience that celebrates the warmth, culture, and culinary traditions of India. We are committed to using only the finest, freshest ingredients to create dishes that are true to their heritage.

aromatic curries authentic indian cuisine flavorful biryanis

101 reviews

Customs

4.7(601)

coffee shop · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food, especially the toast options, and the friendly service.

coffee subscription espresso filter coffee

601 reviews

Damascus

4.7(822)

middle eastern restaurant · Te Aro

Damascus is a small Middle Eastern restaurant located in Wellington, known for its intimate dining experience and quick bookings.

halal mediterranean middle eastern

822 reviews

Good Grief

4.7(25)

bakery · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the excellent coffee, friendly service, and delicious pastries, making it a must-visit bakery.

25 reviews

Hanging Ditch

4.7(500)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service, great atmosphere, and tasty cocktails, making it a must-visit spot.

500 reviews

$$$

Hawthorn Lounge

4.7(609)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Hawthorn Lounge is an intimate and inviting little speakeasy that is a home away from home for both the cocktail connoisseur and the cocktail curious.

609 reviews

Hummingbird Restaurant & Lounge

4.7(377)

restaurant · Te Aro

After a four-year hiatus, the iconic Wellington Hummingbird is making its long awaited return to rejuvenate the Courtenay Place precinct. With inviting cocktails, and mouthwatering dishes and personable service, Hummingbird promises to once again be the perfect blend of laid-back atmosphere and culinary excellence.

cocktails culinary excellence laid-back atmosphere

87 reviews

Kakariki Coffee

4.7(72)

cafe · Wellington Central

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food, particularly the burgers and pastries, along with the attentive and friendly service.

72 reviews

$$ - $$$

Kisa

4.7(894)

restaurant · Te Aro

Kisa serves Middle Eastern inspired-cuisine, centred on Turkish flavours. Bold dishes, designed for sharing, featuring house-baked pita and a charcoal grill.

bold flavours charcoal grill house-baked pita

894 reviews

La Serre

4.7(3)

bar · Wellington Central

La Serre Bar is a chic lounge bar specializing in local gins.

local gins

3 reviews

LEVEL UP by Axl Coffee

4.7(73)

cafe · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious croffles and smooth coffee, highlighting the cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

73 reviews

$$$

Noble Rot Wine Bar

4.7(850)

restaurant · Te Aro

Book the first table of the night at Noble Rot and you'll get 50% off the food bill for two, three or four diners!

558 reviews

Oak & Vine Restaurant Wellington

4.7(1,122)

restaurant · Wellington 6011

Welcome to Oak & Vine Restaurant in Wellington, where the city’s energy is always part of the experience. Executive Chef Rajesh Barwal knows his way around our open grill, mixing modern Kiwi flavours with local inspiration and seasonal freshness.

grill new zealand steak

117 reviews

Ohtel Pantry

4.7(21)

cafe · Oriental Bay

Delight in Ohtel Pantry’s fresh local cuisine, specialty coffee, bar snacks, and sweet treats in the heart of Wellington’s Oriental Bay. Open daily for breakfast, brunch, and more.

bar snacks craft beer handpicked local wine

21 reviews

Pizza Pomodoro

4.7(927)

meal takeaway · ground floor/13 Leeds Street

Pizza Pomodoro offers authentic Neapolitan pizza baked fresh in a wood-fired oven, certified by Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana.

authentic neapolitan pizza italian pizza

927 reviews

Rock Yard Restaurant

4.7(1,405)

vietnamese restaurant · Te Aro

Welcome to Rock Yard Restaurant, where Vietnamese culture meets culinary delight in Wellington. Our passion is to share the authentic tastes and traditions of our homeland with you, in a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.

asian gluten-free options modern twists

1,405 reviews

TASTE OF HOME

4.7(682)

meal takeaway · Te Aro

A Taste of Home Wellington offers a unique selection of authentic Chinese flavors in a convenient takeaway format.

aromatic blends asian chinese

581 reviews

Zelati Dessert Cafe

4.7(406)

ice cream shop · Te Aro

Zelati Gelato and Sorbet is batch-made and hand-packed from start to finish using only real, premium ingredients to make an all-round delicious product. Everything is made at the Tawa Zelati Freezeria, a purpose-built gelato and sorbet lab.

artisan gelato craft gelato plant-based sorbet

406 reviews

Aunty Mena's Vegetarian Restaurant & Cafe

4.6(970)

vegetarian restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food, generous portions, and friendly service, making it a must-visit for vegetarians.

970 reviews

Baar Baar - Indian Gastro Bar

4.6(418)

indian restaurant · Te Aro

A vibrant celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage, Baar Baar masterfully blends diverse flavors with the finest locally sourced ingredients.

authentic fusion indian cuisine

243 reviews

$$$

Boulcott Street Bistro

4.6(1,979)

restaurant · Wellington Central

Cozy, upscale establishment in a Victorian cottage featuring classic & modern NZ dishes & fine wine.

classic bistro dishes european great wines

1,979 reviews

Burger Liquor

4.6(2,550)

hamburger restaurant · Te Aro

Located in the heart of Wellington, Burger Liquor is Wellington's first Burger Bar. Serving great burgers, along with the burger's favourite accompaniments.

american bar beers

2,550 reviews

Curry Heaven

4.6(569)

indian restaurant · Newtown

Curry Heaven is a beloved destination for authentic Indian cuisine, known for its rich flavours and welcoming atmosphere. Our passion lies in bringing the essence of India to Wellington.

authentic indian cuisine freshly prepared indian delicacies

569 reviews

$$$

Dragonfly

4.6(1,818)

restaurant · Te Aro

Restaurant & bar serving Asian dishes & cocktails in a stylish, intimate space with a courtyard.

asian asian dining contemporary asian

1,623 reviews

El Matador

4.6(1,797)

restaurant · Te Aro

Welcome to El Matador. We have been serving Wellington's best Spanish tapas and authentic Argentinian steaks since 2012. Boasting NZ's first wood-fired asadores and parrilla, an open kitchen, sunny courtyard, boutique bar, superb service and a great vibe, El Matador is the perfect place for a delicious dinner.

argentinian steaks fresh kiwi produce spanish tapas

1,797 reviews

Havana Bar

4.6(952)

restaurant · Te Aro

Tapas, wine & cocktails served in colorful, side-by-side cottages with a hip, throwback Latin vibe.

cuban cuisine internationally inspired tapas seasonal plates

952 reviews

Kaffee Eis Cuba Street

4.6(1,203)

cafe · Te Aro

Kaffee Eis represents a modern fusion of New Zealand and European flavour specialising in gourmet gelato, sorbetto and boutique coffee. We produce the highest quality product and deliver it with exceptional service.

artisan sorbet boutique coffee gourmet gelato

1,203 reviews

Leroy's

4.6(584)

bar · Wellington Central

Celebrate in style with us at Leroy’s – the perfect spot for any type of party or get together. With great food, drinks, and a fun, relaxed vibe, we’ve got everything you need to make it a night to remember.

bar burgers gluten-free options

584 reviews

Ombra

4.6(2,933)

italian restaurant · Te Aro

Wine & small plates in a cozy establishment inspired by the informal bacaros of Venice.

cicchetti contemporary curated selection of wines

2,933 reviews

Puffin Wine Bar & Shop

4.6(344)

wine bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent cocktails and wine recommendations.

344 reviews

Shipwreck Cafe

4.6(17)

ice cream shop · Wellington Harbour

Take a ride on the wild side with Wellington's iconic Crocodile bikes! Hire a 3 or a 6 seater crocbike with family, friends or colleagues and cruise around the waterfront from Oriental Bay to Queens wharf.

ice cream locally sourced ingredients shakes

17 reviews

Viva Mexico

4.6(1,331)

mexican restaurant · Newtown

Counter-serve Mexican eatery offering tacos, tortas & other traditional dishes in a colorful space.

affordable mexican food authentic mexican cuisine fresh ingredients

1,331 reviews

Crumpet

4.5(473)

cocktail bar · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional drinks and cosy atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for many.

473 reviews

Gelissimo Gelateria

4.5(272)

ice cream shop · Wellington 6011

Gelissimo Gelateria offers a unique selection of gelato and sorbetto, crafted with care and passion.

gelato sorbetto

272 reviews

Huxley's

4.5(502)

restaurant · Pipitea

Huxley's Bar and Eatery is your CBD escape for all-day dining and bottomless coffee. We're serving up modern diner food with great coffee, cold beer, tap cocktails & good times in the heart of Wellington.

bottomless coffee cold beer dining bars

417 reviews

KCB Wellington CBD

4.5(302)

restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the tasty food, friendly service, and comfortable atmosphere.

302 reviews

$$ - $$$

Loosies Superette

4.5(327)

diner · Te Aro

Open from lunch ’til late, Loosies Superette is your new haven in central Wellington. Our weary storefront might feel straight out of the eighties, but step inside and find yourself in a diner that exudes the high-energy hustle and bustle of Cuba St.

american bar delicatessen

261 reviews

Masala Cafe & Bar

4.5(1,386)

indian restaurant · Te Aro

Masala Cafe & Bar is an Indian restaurant in Wellington that welcomes you to experience the ultimate Indian dining. Serving authentic flavours since 2002.

authentic flavors halal meat indian cuisine

891 reviews

Nolita

4.5(1,407)

italian restaurant · Te Aro

Nolita is New Zealand's first plant-based pizza & pastaria on Wellington's buzzing Cuba St. We do things a little differently with 48 hour fermented sourdough, house-made cheese, pasta & flatbreads.

cashew mozzarella contemporary dining bars

1,116 reviews

Santeria Pizza And Pasta

4.5(1,040)

italian restaurant · Te Aro

Quality is EVERYTHING here at Santeria. We believe in using authentic, fresh ingredients to create the tastiest dishes, which is why we’ve sourced our ingredients straight from Italy.

authentic pasta fresh ingredients gluten-free options

1,040 reviews

Swagat India Brooklyn

4.5(398)

indian restaurant · Brooklyn

Welcome to Swagat India, the best Indian restaurant in Brooklyn.

indian cuisine spicy dishes traditional indian food

398 reviews

Tatsushi Japanese Restaurant

4.5(617)

japanese restaurant · Te Aro

True and Classic Japanese cuisine in Wellington. Authentic Japanese cuisine since AUG 2012.

authentic japanese cuisine japanese green tea tempura

617 reviews

The Library

4.5(2,026)

bar · Te Aro

Book-filled lounge with a cozy, traditional vibe offering craft cocktails & inventive NZ bites.

2,026 reviews

1154 Pastaria

4.4(1,451)

italian restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the delicious pasta and cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for casual dining.

1,451 reviews

$$$

Charley Noble

4.4(3,572)

steak house · 1 Post Office Square

Happening restaurant featuring upmarket NZ cooking, wine & cocktails in a retro, industrial space.

fresh ingredients grill local food

3,572 reviews

Fidel's Cafe

4.4(3,357)

cafe · Te Aro

Colorful institution for Cuban coffee & homestyle eats ranging from egg dishes to burgers & pizza.

cafe coffee shop cuban

3,357 reviews

Istana Malaysia Restaurant

4.4(1,616)

malaysian restaurant · Te Aro

Long-running Malaysian restaurant serving traditional dishes in a relaxed, brick-walled space.

asian authentic malaysian cuisine halal

1,476 reviews

Jardin Grill

4.4(269)

restaurant · Wellington Central

Jardin Grill is an upmarket, relaxed restaurant ideal for elegant dining, offering a theatre of chefs creating mouth-watering dishes.

french rusticity international cuisine local flavors

269 reviews

Joe's Garage Wellington

4.4(1,710)

cafe · Te Aro

At Joe’s it’s all about the food and drink experience, and the cool, casual and welcoming attitude.

brekkie dinner dog-friendly

1,185 reviews

Kazu Sushi

4.4(562)

sushi restaurant · Te Aro

Reviewers consistently praise the fresh and delicious sushi, attentive service, and family-friendly atmosphere.

fresh seafood japanese japanese cuisine

562 reviews

Lola Stays

4.4(744)

cafe · Oriental Bay

Come down and try our amazing food. There is a little something for everyone.

all day breakfast brunch cafe

744 reviews

Minibar

4.4(256)

bar · Te Aro

Nestled in the lively heart of Courtenay Place, Wellington, Minibar stands as a beacon for rock enthusiasts and those in search of a genuine, welcoming atmosphere. For over 20 years, we’ve not just been a bar; we’ve been a home to a vibrant community where the staff know your name, and friendships are forged over shared melodies and stories.

celebration venue cocktails happy hour

256 reviews

Miyabi Japanese Restaurant

4.4(548)

japanese restaurant · Te Aro

Miyabi Japanese Restaurant has been dedicated to serving authentic and traditional Japanese cuisine for over 25 years in the Wellington CBD.

asian authentic japanese cuisine japanese

548 reviews

Monsoon Poon

4.4(2,738)

restaurant · Te Aro

Since 2001, the Monsoon Poon Restaurant & Bar has been spicing up the lives of Wellingtonians and visitors alike with favourite dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, India, China and Indonesia.

asian chinese indian

2,738 reviews

Namaste Khandallah

4.4(230)

indian restaurant · Khandallah

Welcome to Namaste Khandallah Restaurant, an oasis of exquisite Indian cuisine nestled in the heart of Khandallah, New Zealand. We invite you to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the rich tapestry of flavors, from the vegetarian delights to the tantalizing non-vegetarian specialties, that India has to offer.

indian cuisine non-vegetarian specialties vegetarian delights

230 reviews

PhuThai Esarn Restaurant

4.4(441)

thai restaurant · Te Aro

Relaxed restaurant serving Thai curries, noodles & mains in a traditional, red-walled space.

asian authentic thai cuisine north and north eastern thai cuisine

441 reviews

Saffron Haveli

4.4(478)

indian restaurant · Mount Victoria

HAVELI refers to a Mansion where families live and eat together. It contains partitions which divide the big hall into small but innovative parts, creating a traditional dining experience.

family dining indian cuisine traditional indian dishes

399 reviews

Saint Diablo

4.4(79)

bar · Te Aro

Saint Diablo is a Mexican cocktail bar, eatery, and night spot nestled in the heart of Courtenay Place.

cocktails mexican street food

79 reviews

$$ - $$$

Supra Restaurant

4.4(282)

restaurant · Te Aro

Supra is a small restaurant in Te Aro, Wellington, focused on providing the best dining experience with an emphasis on originality and authenticity.

american australian food eastern european

282 reviews

The Arborist Rooftop Bar

4.4(1,134)

bar · Te Aro

The Arborist is a must see venue in Wellington, offering a selection of nature inspired seasonal dishes & cocktails.

cocktails modern new zealand share plates nature inspired seasonal dishes

1,114 reviews

The Tasting Room

4.4(1,025)

restaurant · Te Aro

The Tasting Room is a completely dog friendly venue inside and outside, offering a diverse menu and a welcoming atmosphere.

craft beer dog-friendly gluten-free options

915 reviews

Arashi Kushiyaki Bar

4.3(952)

japanese restaurant · Te Aro

Arashi Kushiyaki Bar is one of the best Japanese Restaurants in the Wellington CBD. It was the first kushiyaki (skewer grilled) bar that was opened in Wellington.

japanese cuisine kushiyaki ramen

457 reviews

Floriditas

4.3(2,859)

restaurant · Te Aro

Energetic, all-day operation serving updated NZ fare in a high-ceilinged, 1930s-style space.

artisan sourdough cafe free range chicken

2,859 reviews

Mexico Wellington

4.3(1,547)

mexican restaurant · Te Aro

Inspired by the streets of Mexico, our food is created to deliver complex layers of flavour across a range of shareable dishes. Our menu changes throughout the year to stay in tune with fresh ingredients.

complex flavors mexican cuisine shareable dishes

1,176 reviews

Rasa Malaysia Restaurant

4.3(609)

malaysian restaurant · Te Aro

Casual, colorful eatery serving South Indian & Malaysian dishes in a cozy storefront space.

curry malaysian cuisine noodles

609 reviews

The Botanist

4.3(2,107)

vegetarian restaurant · Lyall Bay

The Botanist brings the best in innovative plant based cuisine to the stunning south coast of Wellington. We're bringing real food to the people - fresh & healthy, comforting & tasty.

botanical cocktails cafe european

2,058 reviews

The Grand

4.3(1,136)

restaurant · Te Aro

Classy steakhouse & bar serving surf 'n' turf, stonegrill fare & cocktails in a historic space.

bar food cocktails craft beer

992 reviews

$$$

Portlander

4.2(975)

restaurant · Featherston Street

Upscale, contemporary option at the Rydges Hotel offering steaks, burgers, seafood, wine & whiskey.

artisan rustic steakhouse

975 reviews

Thai Chef's Restaurant Wellington

4.2(1,114)

thai restaurant · Te Aro

Thai restaurant serving classic & vegetarian menus, plus cocktails, in an easygoing atmosphere.

asian curry noodles

1,053 reviews

ZZAN Wellington

4.2(471)

restaurant · Mount Victoria

Welcome to ZZAN Fried chicken

fried chicken

471 reviews

Mama Brown

4.0(3,075)

american restaurant · Te Aro

We are known for our tasty American 'South of the Border' style food and the best milkshakes in town! We pride ourselves on great food, great service and great fun!

american cajun fries freshly made waffles

3,075 reviews

Slice

4.0(44)

meal takeaway · Te Aro

Book a First Table for lunch or dinner at 187 and you'll get 50% off the food bill for two, three or four diners!

pizza

44 reviews