The 10 Best Restaurants in Wellington (Updated July 2025)

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a food lover’s paradise. The city boasts an incredible culinary scene that showcases the best of local and international cuisine. With so many exceptional restaurants to choose from, selecting just ten can be a daunting task. However, after extensive research and personal recommendations, we have compiled a list of the top 10 restaurants in Wellington that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Introduction

Wellington’s restaurant scene is renowned for its innovative approach to cuisine, exceptional service, and stunning views. From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through the best of Wellington’s restaurants, highlighting what makes each one special.

1. The Sugar Club

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: High-end ($$$$)
  • Recommended For: Special occasions, Fine dining

The Sugar Club is an iconic restaurant that embodies the essence of Wellington’s culinary scene. Chef Josh Emett’s innovative dishes are a masterclass in modern New Zealand cuisine, using only the freshest local ingredients.

2. Logan Brown Restaurant & Bar

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Business dinners, Casual dining

Logan Brown is a Wellington institution, offering an exceptional dining experience that combines stunning views with innovative cuisine. Chef Logan Brown’s passion for using local ingredients shines through in every dish.

3. Skyline Restaurant & Bar

  • Cuisine: International
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Groups, Live music

Skyline is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Wellington’s nightlife. The restaurant’s international cuisine and extensive wine list make it an ideal spot for groups and live music enthusiasts.

4. Oca Restaurant

  • Cuisine: Pacific Rim
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Foodies, Special occasions

Oca is a hidden gem that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Pacific Rim. Chef Josh Emett’s innovative take on traditional dishes is not to be missed.

5. Rata

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: High-end ($$$$)
  • Recommended For: Special occasions, Fine dining

Rata is a culinary destination that redefines the fine dining experience. Chef Josh Emett’s passion for using local ingredients creates dishes that are both innovative and delicious.

6. Hineshaw

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Business dinners, Casual dining

Hineshaw is a modern take on traditional dining. The restaurant’s focus on using local ingredients and innovative techniques makes it an ideal spot for business dinners and casual dining.

7. The Cook

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Groups, Live music

The Cook is a vibrant restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s focus on using local ingredients and innovative techniques makes it an ideal spot for groups and live music enthusiasts.

8. KITCHEN by side

  • Cuisine: Modern New Zealand
  • Price Range: Mid-range ($$$)
  • Recommended For: Business dinners, Casual dining

Kitchen by side is a modern take on traditional dining. The restaurant’s focus on using local ingredients and innovative techniques makes it an ideal spot for business dinners and casual dining.

9. Fidel

  • Cuisine: Modern Spanish
  • Price Range: High-end ($$$$)
  • Recommended For: Special occasions, Fine dining

Fidel is a culinary destination that redefines the fine dining experience. The restaurant’s focus on using local ingredients and innovative techniques creates dishes that are both innovative and delicious.

10. The Grille by Eichardt’s

  • Cuisine: Steakhouse
  • Price Range: High-end ($$$$)
  • Recommended For: Special occasions, Fine dining

The Grille by Eichardt’s is a Wellington institution that offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s focus on using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques makes it an ideal spot for special occasions and fine dining.

Conclusion

Wellington’s restaurant scene is truly exceptional, offering something for everyone. From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, there’s no shortage of incredible options to choose from. We hope this list has provided you with a starting point for planning your next culinary adventure in Wellington.

Is there anywhere else you’d like to dine when visiting Wellington? Share your recommendations in the comments below!