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 Wine and Risotto |
125 Featherston Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 5530 http://www.arbitrageur.co.nz/ |
With an impressive list of over 600 local and international wines, the Arbitrageur Wine Room offers the best wine experience in Wellington. The menu consists of salads, soups, pasta, risotto, and crustacea. It is available for corporate meetings and business conferences. A winner of several awards some of which are 'Cuisine Restaurant of the Year' in 2005, and the Award of Excellence 2005 in the Wine Spectator Magazine Wine List Awards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Wei-Hang Chua  |
 Photo: Wei-Hang Chua |
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World food |
90 Aro Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 4970 |
Located in the historic Aro Valley on Wellington's fringe, this café offers a varied international a la carte menu at moderate prices. The crisp clean cream paint job and the occasional retro ornament create a relaxed setting. Colour is added by the work of local artists. The varied dinner menu includes vegetarian dishes like Bulgar and Lentil Pilaf or Grilled Autumn Vegetable Haloumi on a Celeriac Risotto Cake. Breakfast menu weekdays and a tempting weekend brunch also available. Licensed, but you can bring your own wine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A little bit mexican |
34 Courtney Place Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 3834 |
Nestled in the heart of the entertainment district, this is a great place for pre-dinner meals, post-dinner coffee or an early weekend brunch. As it is open late during the weekend, it attracts an hour-of-the-day dependent crowd. The decor - Mexican inspired mellow earthy tones with candle lit tables - is pleasant and soothing. Fully licensed and in the mid price bracket, the menu offers an eclectic mix of European/Mexican inspired food with a vegetarian bias. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Local secret |
165 Riddiford Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 389 5555 |
Situated in suburban Newtown, this charming cafe is one of the best kept secrets in Wellington. It is loyally supported by the locals and very reasonably priced. The coffee is exceptional (not to be under rated in this part of the world). Vegetarian food is a speciality and there is plenty of seafood for the meat adverse. Decor is pleasing - you are immediately surrounded by beautiful native wood and warm yellows in the cosy dining suites. Do not tell everybody about this place (or the great Ginger Spice Pudding) or you will spoil the secret. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For political humour |
34 Molesworth Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 3065 |
If you find yourself near Parliament Buildings be sure to look in at this lively and relaxed pub and café famous for its political satire and substantial fare. Big lunches and dinners, plus an all day bar menu, a weekend brunch and lively atmosphere. Try the Clark's Lamb Shanks or the Seafood Policy of the Day. Often frequented by public servants, politician's secretaries, journalists and others who buzz near the beehive. Also caters for functions for 20-300 people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Grant Cherrington |
 Photo: kara.anne fraser |
 Photo: Seth Mazow |
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Cellar selection |
11 Woodward Street P.O. Box 10 220 Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 1471 |
On pedestrian Woodward Street, in the central business district, this downstairs wine bar is the secret sipping spot of wine lovers from all over town. It is fairly small, with a lot of wood and French motifs such as roosters and wine labels. Al fresco dining in the summer months extends the pleasant ambience outdoors. Offers a tasty blackboard menu for lunch with reasonably priced dishes such as Ham and Gruyere Pie and Pork Belly, Basil and Tomato Pie with Green Salad. There is an extensive international wine selection and special offers from the cellar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Boulangerie & patisserie |
220 Thorndon Quay Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 8334 |
For fresh croissants made with an authentic French recipe, look no further than Wellington's own Bordeaux Bakery. On weekend mornings the shop is packed with customers and those who wish to, can stop and enjoy their purchases over a good strong French coffee. All the classic breads and patisseries are available from baguette to brioche thanks to specialist French baker Jean-Louis Macadre. A simple lunch is also served - consult the blackboard menu for the likes of Eggplant Gratin or Fettucine with Traditional Italian sauce. Wash the meal down with a glass of wine (from Bordeaux of course). Bon appetit! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Best from Bordeaux |
220 Thorndon Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 8334 |
They brought us Bordeaux baking and now the owners of this business are bringing the sweet scents of Bordeaux cooking to the city fringe. From the kitchen of Dominique comes Flamiche aux Poireaux, Gambas Grilles, Entrecote Poelee, Caille Braisee and many other delights. Excellent wine served to accompany the meal and exceptional service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Fancy tea in the gardens |
Glenmore Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 1400 |
This conservatory cafe at one end of the Botanic Gardens luscious Begonia house looks out towards a sea of roses in spring. Light and brightly painted in trendy yellows and aubergines it is a spacious, relaxing, and pleasant place for tea on your own or with grandma. Serves snacks and counter foods such as samosas, rolls, quiche, pastries and cakes. Caters for all kinds of private functions. Smoke free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lim Hsiao Wei |
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Central business district cafe |
20 Brandon Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 6673 |
This casual cafe caters to the office worker market especially those needing a quick caffeine fix before the day starts, and anyone after a healthy lunch. The warm yellow walls covered in brilliant murals are a dominant feature, which along with the casual attitude give a slightly arty, slightly hippie, slightly different feel. A blackboard menu offers a range of inexpensive lunches such as Glazed Fish and Pickled Eggplant or Oriental Beef-style Salad. Also sells counter food like stuffed potatoes and foccacia sandwiches. Serves hot drinks, juices, and smoothies. No alcohol. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mellow music and coffee |
250 Lambton Quay Capital on the Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 471 1352 |
Read about new music releases at your table top, then hear them at the listening posts while savouring coffee and cake at this casual cafe. With its roomy and contemporary style and laid-back, comfortable feel, it easily attracts a spill-over crowd from the compact disc store next door. Serves breakfast and lunch. Main meals such as soup, pasta, wedges and smoked chicken salad are very reasonably priced. Refreshments include iced drinks, tea, smoothies and, of course, coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Asian and kiwi cafe fare |
93 Molesworth Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 3908 |
Just up the road from Parliament Buildings, this friendly and diverse eatery services local office workers and the occasional resident. The emphasis is on varied cafe fare with a mix of New Zealand and Asian favourites. Eat in or takeaway as the mood takes you or weather dictates. There is a table or two on the footpath for those seeking some fresh air. Breakfast specials and varied light lunches are on offer. Try the Warm Chicken Salad, Spicy Wedges, simple hot Panini or soup of the day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home style lunches |
45 Pipitea Street St Pauls Square Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 2379 |
This Thorndon cafe is tucked away behind the National Library, city apartments and several Government Buildings. It is frequented by crowds of public servants for breakfast meetings, coffee or lunch who enjoy the glass-walled corner site and simple decoration. Specialises in good wholesome reasonably priced breakfasts, home-style lunches and all day counter snacks like sausage rolls and muffins. Refreshments include coffee, juices and a moderately sized wine list. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wall to wall |
Dukes Arcade Corner of Manners & Willis Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 1154 |
This small crowded cafe serves delicious lunches, brunches and breakfasts. The food is always fresh, reasonably priced and the service alert and friendly. The setting is comfortable and unpretentious with a welcoming sofa, well-stocked magazine rack and a good display of New Zealand wine. It attracts a mixed clientele with its relaxed atmosphere. Try the fresh and simple food, such as Satay Chicken with Apricot Sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fresh coffee on Midland |
159 Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 8500 |
This cafe is beautifully situated on the edge of Midland Park in the heart of the shopping district. A favourite haunt of the corporate crowd (take your cellphone to feel at home) who, in summer, spill onto the square as diners meet workers with packed lunches in the sun. Reminiscent of a Vienna coffee house, this warm wood panelled cafe is the place for a revitalising coffee made from beans freshly ground on the premises. Also serves snacks, light lunches and dinner. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Popular gourmet pizza |
1 Courtney Place Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 5269 |
Occupying a bustling corner site in Wellington's entertainment area, Calzone is the perfect place for upbeat dining with friends. Enjoy al fresco dining in summer and the spacious back bar for pre-dinner drinks in winter. Caters for the young and outgoing 30-something crowd. Food is Italian with a French influence, and gourmet pizza and pasta are a speciality. Moderately priced mains are served up with good music. Try the Fish of the day with Tomato Rissotto Cake, Wilted Spinach and Red Pepper Coulis. Also, good for cake and coffee after the movies or the theatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Cocktails and casual dining |
12 Majorbanks Street Mount Victoria Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 8733 |
Quirky, casual, cool and cocktails describe this upbeat city restaurant, with food by chef 'Mad Tim Jones', at the foot of Mount Victoria. Diners with attitude frequent this great New York style eatery and cocktail house. Check out the wall tiles and relax in the slightly retro ambience of the place. The restaurant offers an international menu with a difference including the likes of Cantonese style pork and Rocket of Lamb. The restaurant is licensed and well known for its classic cocktails. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 And saki |
48 Courtney Place Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 9352 |
Suited clients grab salmon and white fish as it rolls off the belt in this small restaurant in the Courtney Place entertainment district. It is a fun place - modern, crisp and clean with long wooden tables surrounded by diners. Portions roll around the counter on a belt system and diners are charged, eventually, by the plate. Cheaper specials such as the sushi and sashimi set are offered, as are takeaways. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Superior service |
2 Grey Street, Ground Floor InterContinental Wellington Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 495 7841 http://www.chameleonrestaurant... |
This restaurant sets the standard for fine meals, relaxed dining, truly impeccable service, fabulous food presentation and attention to detail. It is good for families, wining and dining clients, or simply a quick afternoon tea or coffee. Enjoy the airy, spacious feel created by floor to ceiling windows and mellow wood and autumn shades. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Varied menus for each service. Light lunches include everyone's favourite Caesar Salad or choose fish or meat from the evening menu. Extensive wine list. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spanish flavour in the central business district |
146 Featherston Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 6001 http://www.copita.co.nz/ |
This restaurant shimmers with Spanish style. Enjoy a tapas plate over a drink at the bar, or settle in for a long business lunch. The decor is refreshing and stylish, and the focal point is the long bar for pre-dinner drinks. The walls are set off by large, flashy mirrors that give a feeling of space. The service is exceptional. Try out entrees, such as Paella Balls with Smoked Paprika Aioli and mains, such as Fillet Steak. There is a good wine list featuring quality Spanish, New Zealand and Australian wines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Juice on the run |
139 Featherston Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 9824 |
This modern fresh juice bar caters to fast moving office workers looking for healthy food on the run. Their speciality is nutritious fresh fruit concoctions such as the Celery, Beetroot and Apple Juice that is promoted as a hangover cure. Moreover they also provide light scrumptious snacks such as Panini Rolls. With their friendly can-do attitude they will create a mixture for your mood or choice. The decor is bright and modern. Not licensed and no hot drinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Simple and wholesome |
126 Featherston Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 471 2946 |
This weekday fast food place serves busy office workers looking for a quick and nutritious bite to eat. The food is mainly to go but there is a small breakfast bar with half a dozen bar stools, for those wanting to escape the office and eat while flipping through a magazine. Enjoy the healthy sandwiches and tasty panini, which the friendly proprietors will grill for you while you wait. Excellent range of juices, hot and cold drinks and protein shakes for the fitness fanatics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fly in |
241 Tinakori Road Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 4309 |
Bourgeoise cuisine is brought to you in this small casual restaurant on the city rim in Thorndon. The decor is plain and everything seems to have a touch of pink. The restaurant occupies two rooms so eating spaces are reasonably private. It is great for groups who can take over a space. Food, like Prime Scotch fillet, French Cotelete and Chicken Tenderloin is prepared in a French provincial style. There is a blackboard dessert menu. Not licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Capital sandwiches on the quay |
226-238 Lambton Quay Capital On The Quay Arcade Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 0134 |
Get here early and you will be in time to grab a window seat and watch the world go by. Located upstairs at Wellington's modern Capital On The Quay Arcade, it attracts business professionals and shoppers for breakfast and lunch. As well as a variety of hot and cold foods, desserts, muffins and pastries it features a sandwich bar with a huge choice of freshly made breads and fillings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New Zealand style |
342 Tinakori Road Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 6238 |
Relax as you are served brunch, a light meal or dinner in a colonial building on the city fringe in historic Thorndon. Covering two storeys, the restaurant features warm wood, up and down, and always displays work by local artists. Low-key modern music is played and the service is friendly. Upstairs dining is slightly more formal. Light meals include Quesadillas, Corn Fritters, and Tandoori Chicken Salad. Monday night specials are available. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Intimate French dining |
10a Murphy Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 5252 http://www.francois.co.nz / |
This intimate restaurant has developed a reputation well beyond its size. Situated in a classic whitewashed colonial building, it attracts a business crowd from the surrounding office blocks, especially for lunch, and local apartment dwellers, too tired to cook, in the evening. The menu offers a small selection of traditional French country dishes. A main, like Confit du Carnard, is popular among patrons. Vegetable or salad side dishes are extra. The wine list, appropriately, has a good choice of French and New Zealand wines to complement the main event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Oriental fast foods |
138 Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 3780 |
This is a great spot for a cheap and healthy lunch. If you do not want a sit down meal you can take something away. The sushi boxes are great or try your Euro-Chinese favourites. Meals are served by the plate. Three choices like Fried Rice, Sweet and Sour Pork and Beef in Black Bean Sauce are worth trying. For NZD8 you will get five choices. At the front of the store is a takeaway sushi bar, ideal for those eating on the run. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ticket to ride |
65 The Terrace Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 3788 |
For a lunch time treat for the mind and tastebuds, try this yet to be discovered eatery. Choose from a variety of tempting plates as they meander down the sushi train. The restaurant is small, plain and good value. Access is somewhat convoluted. Take either the stairs, from Lambton Quay - or get there more directly from The Terrace. Nutritious and tasty morsels are prepared in the open kitchen. There are many varieties of Sushi including Prawn, Egg, Salmon, Maki Rolls and more. Price, is determined by plate colour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Kiwi Food |
351 The Parade Island Bay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 383 6442 |
This cafe cum restaurant and wine bar is not far from downtown. It serves primarily traditional Maori cuisine. Fine coffee, delicious food and the best Kiwi wine is also available on the menu. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A favourite for yum char |
27 Courtney Place Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 5657 |
This established restaurant in the heart of Courtney Place is great for lovers of real Chinese chow. Down the corridor entranceway you will find an authentic Chinese restaurant--rich red decor, fish tanks, and large tables with lazy susans. Serves an extensive range of meals with mains like Crispy Skin Chicken and Thai Style Chilli Chicken. Karaoke on Friday and Saturday nights from 10p and one of the best Yum Char selections in town (at lunch time on Sundays). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bold decor that works |
Corner Jervois Quay and Willeston Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 7979 |
Legato breathes fresh air into the predominantly commercial location nearby. Its style is industrial with walls adventurously painted in lime green, sky blue, and orange. The cafe is roomy and welcoming and caters to a business crowd from the offices above and around. Serves breakfasts and a wide selection of counter foods such as muffins, scones and bagels. Good strong coffee will get the day under way or try one of the excellent selection of bottled fruit juices such as Feijoa juice - fresh and fantastic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Inexpensive, tasty Malaysian cuisine |
22 Brandon Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 1989 |
Despite its name this central city bar is mainly a restaurant. Chef Yen Soo travels regularly to Malaysia to keep abreast of contemporary culinary developments. The long, narrow room with bright friendly atmosphere attracts a business clientele for lunch and mixed-age patrons in the evening. Licensed with a wide choice of meals from an eight-page menu. Try the Tofu Goreng, a delicious fish curry, a traditional Laska or Nasi Pular (bundles of rice wrapped in banana skins). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Malaysian on the city fringe |
Corner of Tory & Vivian Streets Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 7777 |
Stroll to the fringe of the city for appetising food at this inexpensive restaurant. Located in an older-style villa, the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. It is popular with groups who want to share the Malaysian, Thai and Chinese dishes offered on the extensive menu. For a tasty treat try the Laksa Melaka, a mixture of seafood and tofu with sambal, laksa leaves, lime juice and coconut milk served over noodles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Simply worth it |
55 Mulgrave Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 5590 |
Housed in an old villa, slightly off the beaten track in historic Thorndon, this eatery is small, friendly and worth the hunt. It serves an excellent seasonal menu. Garden seating, open fires in winter, moderate prices and friendly service characterize the café, which is frequented by public servants and other office workers especially for lunch. Meals are hearty and range from pie, peas and spuds to vegetarian delights. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Mexican magic |
32 Riddiford Street Newtown Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 389 3983 |
A homely and reasonably priced restaurant - possibly one of the few true bring-your-own-wine places left in town. It offers pleasant, unpretentious dining in a small and cosy lounge with burnt orange walls, exposed beams of dark wood and Mexican inspired bric-a-brac. Frequented by locals, groups and families. Offers a moderate range centred on Enchiladas and Tacos, though there is a constantly changing specials board as well. A choice of four desserts will nicely complete your meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Something for everyone |
Old Bank Shopping Arcade Wellington, 233-237 Lambton 6001 New Zealand +64 4 922 0608 |
This venue has an eclectic range of food that will satisfy most tastes. Situated on the lower level of the historic Old Bank Arcade, Mezzini's is an ideal place to take a breath between shops or simply savour a taste of yesteryear in one of Wellington's landmark buildings. Open for breakfast, all day snacks, lunch or simply a glass of wine. Lunches are reasonably priced and include Italian style pasta, gourmet focaccia and sandwiches. The wine bar selection is extensive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Serving our city |
34 Bowen Street Bowen State Building Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 2536 http://www.ministryoffood.co.nz |
This cafe is committed to serving the city and it does a good job. Go there and try the delicious fresh food and excellent coffee. Situated on a corner site, the restaurant is large and light, and features a central sweeping wave-like counter. Plenty of small tables for twosomes, and a sunny outdoor courtyard. Sometimes described as Pacific Rim, the menu includes the likes of Fish of the Day with Ginger and Tomato Salsa and Spiced Roasted Chicken. They also have snacks like grilled bread and chips. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Simply delicious |
142 Willis Street, Shop 13 Willis Street Village Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 9688 |
This is a charming little restaurant. Nicely situated off the main shopping street, it is an oasis of calm in a crazy world. The co-ordinated red, white and black colour scheme, which is anchored by wonderful wall hangings of kimono-clad women, immediately hits you. Delicious sushi and sashimi sets are available. A selection of teriyaki choices is also tempting. If you do not have time to eat-in, then takeaway lunchboxes are the answer. Modest wine list. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Friendly, fresh, inexpensive |
104 Cuba Mall Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 4792 |
This vast cavern of a coffee shop opened up overnight it seemed, in Cuba Street. Family friendly, fresh and inexpensive it has something for all tastes. Metallic chairs (including high chairs for the children), big windows looking out to Cuba Mall and a bustling feel characterise this cafe. Plenty of variety including pies, breads, and muffins make it ideal for a snack or lunch with the children. Hot and cold drinks available but no alcohol served. Sells marvellous cakes created to order and a full range of bakery products. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: caro_randall |
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Fresh, light, fabulous food |
City Gallery Building Civic Square Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 4168 |
The cafe is attached to the City Gallery in the heart of Civic Square, one of Wellington's favourite places to relax. The decor is contemporary with floor to ceiling windows surrounding a courtyard that provides a sheltered sunny alcove for al fresco dining on a good day. Open all day for coffee, wine, snacks and extra fresh light lunches. Try the crispy White Bread with homemade Plum Chutney and Ham Off the Bone or a Pan Fried Warehou, Potato Salad and Green Goddess Dressing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah McManus |
 Photo: Kate Doherty |
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A cosy local spot |
101 Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 5155 |
Typical New Zealand bar and cafe- - cheap, unpretentious and smoky with a betting agency and poker machines. There is a large bar on one side of the entrance and cafe on the other, with good people watching spots on to Lambton Quay. The bar serves beer, on tap and bottled, and a range of spirits. Good local wine available by the glass or bottle. Food is buffet style with specials, such as Braised Sausage and Mash, for lunch. There is also a range of salads. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good place to unwind |
132 Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 4732 |
This attractive place to unwind after a hard day's shopping serves a range of wine, beer, spirits and snacks to order. Light lunches, such as quiche and salad, and the handy location in the heart of Wellington's main downtown shopping area make it the choice of shoppers and business people alike. There is indoor or sidewalk seating, but get there early to beat the after-work crowd. The formal restaurant, situated upstairs, is ideal for a cosmopolitan business lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Al fresco favourite |
5 Woodward Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 7222 |
This is Woodward Street's favourite coffee house and with friendly staff, good food and superb coffee are guaranteed. There are bar stools, tables and al fresco seating which is absolutely perfect on a fine day. The food is simple and light but tasty. Try a panini for lunch, a bagel or perhaps a more substantial Chicken Salad. Good range of coffee, tea and juices are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Respected traditional-style Japanese restaurant |
Corner of Featherston & Whitmore Street P O Box 1772 Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 6912 |
One of Wellington's few authentic fully licensed Japanese restaurants. This is an excellent and peaceful choice for those wanting to try Japanese food for the first time. This classy restaurant features rice paper screens, wooden tables, Japanese wall hangings and the traditional tatami mat room. A variety of Japanese foods such as sushi, sashimi, tempura and miso shira are available as a set lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Salty, casual style |
351 The Parade Island Bay Wellington 6002 New Zealand +64 4 383 6442 |
This restaurant, consists of a small bar, a large sea-themed main room, and outdoor al fresco dining in an aesthetically planted courtyard. It caters to a number of tastes and serves breakfast, brunch meals such as soup, salads, fish of the day and dinner (Italian Flat Pizza or Seafood Stew). All meals can be accompanied by coffee, tea, juices or something from the small New Zealand-focused wine list. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Historic pub |
285 Tinakori Road, P. O. Box 12318 Shepherd's Arms Hotel, Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 1230 / +1 800 39 3782 http://www.shepherds.co.nz/ |
Set in the heart of historic Thorndon, New Zealand's oldest suburb, the Shepherd's Arms Hotel dates back to 1870 and claims to be the country's oldest. The bar has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and is decorated with memorabilia outlining the hotel's history. Snack menu is available and the restaurant is open seven days. Places of interest like Katherine Mansfield's birthplace and the Prime Minister's official residence are nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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In a theatre foyer |
St. James Theatre 78-87 Courtenay Place Wellington 6011 New Zealand +64 4 802 6917 / +64 4 802 6930 (Reservation) http://www.stjames.co.nz/ |
Enjoy a glass of bubbles and watch the excitement of theatre develop in this glamorous long bar in the historic Saint James Theatre. The cafe is overwhelmed by the painstakingly renovated grand foyer, sweeping staircase, and tasteful decorations. There are a wide range of drinks available and full selection of teas and coffee. Serves cafe meals, such as Vegetarian Nachos, and ample breakfasts. For a sweet treat try the Cake with an exceptional coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jim Henderson |
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Intimate dining |
328 Tinakori Road Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 0567 http://www.tinakoribistro.co.nz |
Chef and owner Jason Su creates delicious French provincial dishes in this old building in historic Thorndon. It is a classic intimate white tablecloth and wood restaurant with a garden at the back and a private room for functions. The fabulous food such as Roasted Herb Infused Lamb served with Kumara Cake or Roasted Chicken Breast will entice you back again and again. Artistic desserts and an excellent wine list are other drawcards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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More than a basic breakfast |
120 The Terrace Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 1656 |
Another new contemporary bar/cafe serving excellent food at all hours. Situated on two floors, this concrete building with stainless steel, glass and wood creates a slightly retro atmosphere. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served and takeaway snacks and a corporate catering service offered. Food varies from full meals like a Lamb Teriyaki with salad and oriental sauce to a simple panini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vanessa Jackson |
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Nautical night out |
Freyberg Lagoon Oriental Bay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 384 8884 |
Wellington's only floating restaurant offers great views--city lights, ferries, and a procession of yachts sailing into the nearby marina. The marine theme continues inside the restaurant, which is light and spacious. Children will enjoy the novelty of eating in a boat. Try it on a Sunday--they have been dedicated 'family day'. New Zealand seafood is a speciality though meat and vegetarian dishes are also available. Seafood fans should try the Mystery Seafood Bounty - a selection of seasonal seafoods. Fully licensed with bar area for pre-dinner drinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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All you can eat |
Corner of Buckle & Sussex Streets Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 385 6676 |
Part of a New Zealand all-you-can-eat-for-a-set-price chain of licensed buffet restaurants. Family oriented, it welcomes groups and caters for special occasions. Kids will love the birthday balloons and crazy cocktails. Cute peppermint green and pink decor. Valentines features 120 different hot and cold dishes--salads, seafood, a carvery, cheeses, a mouth-watering range of desserts and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
