Josh L.'s
Best fish outlets
- 133Smell, taste and admire the beauty of the produce at this foodie nirvana. Freshly squeezed oranges and roasting coffee beans perfume the room, with a host of free samples to tempt you into an impulse buy or three. Be sure to check out the bakery and fishmonger sections!
- 217Harbourside Market WellingtonWellington CentralWaterfront, Te Papa, Harbourside. How you moniker it is probably dependent on your age, length of time spent in Wellington and what your mates call it. What I think we can all agree on is how amazing this place is on a sunday morning. Economical veggies, amazingly filling rotis and the freshest fish in town. Great place to ease into what, chances are, will be a painful sunday morning.
- 325Mt Vic ChipperyMount VictoriaWho knew fish and chips could be so complex? Choose your fish (obviously), your chips (less obvious) and your batter (freakin’ awesome). The agria chips are sensational, whilst I’d recommend getting whichever fish you go for tempura-style. Definitely worth the extra dollar or two. No longer will we accept greasy fish and oily chips; like every other food genre, the humble old chippy has had to evolve to fit our needs and fads. Expect to see then, therefore, an ever-changing, seasonal menu reflective on what’s been caught that day. Even have your Akaroa salmon fillet grilled; how gourmet is that.
- 412Chic surroundings at this mysterious beauty on the wrong side of Courtenay. Heated seats and fabulous cocktails make this elegant bar perfect for post work drinks on those long winter evenings. The East Asian/Chinese menu is a must! Try the twice cooked chicken.
- 515Ortega Fish Shack and BarMount VictoriaSo often I find myself paying up for an okay but slightly unrewarding meal and ask whether the staff have derived any enjoyment doing their job and working their shift. More often than not, the answer is a resounding no, but Ortega Fish Shack does fun and fantastic food like no place else I’ve been to in Wellington. A mouth-watering menu, carefully matched wines and a vibrant restaurant make this place my other half’s and mine’s special treat. A little on the expensive side for my humble budget, but worth every cent.
- 613Commonsense Organics is a must-visit for any wannabe foodie. Beautiful, locally sourced veg sits alongside gourmet, NZ made pestos and cheeses. Stocking their shelves in keeping with the seasons, this little hangout is in keeping with the 21st century philosophies of environmental sustainability, fair trade and supporting local business. All of this results in some of the freshest looking produce you're likely to see. Take advantage of the online shopping option and share the green-tinted love with friends or family.
Josh L.'s
Friday night with friends
- 16Social Cooking WellingtonWellington CentralEncouraged by a friend and in spite of my skepticism about the concept and the price, I went along to Social Cooking late last year. However, the novelty of the idea in practice, as well as the enthusiasm and genuine passion of the staff, contributed to winning me over. Working in pairs, you are firstly given a demonstration of how to cook the dish (one of the dishes was Beef Wellington) and then set loose on your own. A novel, unusual but ultimately fun way to spend an evening with friends or colleagues. Keep an eye out for bargain deals.
- 22You’ll have to forgive me here for my hazy recollection of my night at Alice, but I’m sure I won’t be alone in having indulged in one too many teapots here. As so many of the funkiest bars here are, Alice is hidden away down a nondescript alley, in this case Forresters Lane. A little taste of old Blighty, Alice has a quaint, English, Alice in Wonderland theme, with matching cocktails to boot. The Long Island Ice Tea looks so inoffensive and cute in that little teapot and served on a doily, but really should come with a disclaimer; massive hangover ahead.
- 30Empire CinemaIsland BayFar removed from the hustle and bustle of the CBD located cinemas, Empire Cinema is an iconic place for Wellington movie-goers. Recently renovated, the interior is lavish, laid-back and historic, serving coffee, alcohol and sweet treats to enjoy pre-movie. Enjoy the movie in luxurious, homely style, as each cinema is furbished with sofas for your comfort. Additionally, Empire showcases artistic talent from Island Bay in its very own gallery, christened 'The White Room'. A diverse selection of movies are available, from the newest 3D blockbuster to art-house, independent movies. Movies starting before 6 on weekdays are a snip at $12.
- 42Welsh Dragon BarWellington CentralThe only Welsh bar in the Southern hemisphere (allegedly). If a slice of Wales isn't enough to entice you in to watch the game, hearty Welsh grub, pool tables, beer served in real handles and a sport-obsessed clientele should be. The best place in the city to while away an evening watching the football or rugby. Their smoking/outdoor area catches some beautiful sunshine too, perfect for an early evening beer.
- 512BATS TheatreMount VictoriaGet out there and support your local amateur theatre group! Bats has recently moved to the more central DIxon Street and offers imaginative, independent amateur entertainment most nights. While the admission prices are a little steep, the enjoyment you’ll have and the creativity of the actors more than make up for the extra few dollars you’ll fork out.
Josh L.'s
A taste of the Orient
- 16Kazu RestaurantTe AroHaving been on a few (read: many) awkward dates, which largely consist of sitting opposite one another discussing banalities such as the decor of the restaurant whilst the waiter silently cringes on your behalf, I firmly believe it is time to bring fun back to dating! And taking your flame to Kazu on Tory Street would be a good start. This Japanese offers tempura, sushi and sashimi, all from the comfort of the floor! Tatami mats are available, which add eccentricity and fun to the meal.
- 22Basin Noodle HouseMount CookLocated just behind the Basin Reserve on Adelaide Road, this is the takeaway choice for many Newtown and Mt Victoria folk. Authentic Chinese style dishes augment a diverse menu ranging from basics such as toasted sandwiches and cheeseburgers to sublime noodle soups. Basic decor but the incessant flow of regulars through the door underline the quality of the food and friendliness of the staff. The pork and pickled cabbage noodle soup comes high recommended, as do the rotis.
- 36Phu Thai LannaTe AroThere is fierce competition when it comes to Thai restaurants in the capital. Off the top of my head I can think of 5 restaurants squabbling for own hard earned within 5 minutes walk in my particular part of town. Having frequented most of these, Phu Thai is the one I return to most often. Their Pad Thai is to die for, whilst the spring rolls are fresh, light and flavoursome. Housemates regularly come back with a takeaway, whilst BYO is also available. Perhaps more suitable for a group booking, as evidenced by the large groups dining away on weekends, yet weekdays are more intimate. Would definitely recommend taking your own plonk, however, as their drinks list is nothing to write home about.
- 42TJ Katsu and UdonWellington CentralFast food doesn't need to be a greasy hangover cure. At times it can seem like the only option for a quick, inexpensive bite in this city is to sell your soul to the franchise and content yourself with a burger, a subway or some fried chicken. There is another way! Wellington has an amazing array of sushi restaurants and this is my most frequented. I tend to stop here on the way home at least once a week for a pre-dinner snack. Help yourself to the most delicious sushi from $1 per piece and stave off the lure of a $2 BK.
- 532Chow ToryTe AroPeckish after 9 30? Restaurants closing, about to resort to generic, bland fast food? Chow is the answer. Located on Tory Street and open every night until midnight, this Asian Fusion, informal restaurant is a hit. Tapas style bites, flavoursome curries and salads bursting with fresh herbs are all on offer. 2 for 1 cocktails on Wednesdays and Saturdays only add to the allure. Take always also available if you wanna take the party home. The salt and pepper squid is sensational!
Josh L.'s
Cool places to get a drink
- 15The Black SparrowMount VictoriaSurely the only place in the city where you can order a "Daisy Buchanan", a "Breakfast at Tiffanys" or a "Casino Royale" without being pointed in the direction of IMDB and your bed. Located below, yes you guessed it, the grandiose Embassy, the Black Sparrow is the perfect place to bookend a movie with an aperitif and a digestif. All the better if you happen to visit on a Tuesday, as 2 for 1 cocktails are all the rage after 5pm. Arguably some of the finest cocktails in the city.
- 236Midnight EspressoWellington CentralPerhaps the hippest little cafe on Cuba, serving inexpensive gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian treats until (very!) late. As you might expect, the Havana coffee served here is amongst the best in town. There is a mind-boggling amount of choice here, if you're anything like me you'll need a good five minutes to take it all in. All day brunch is a winner, the vegan hash brown stack being an absolute high point, whilst you really should believe the nacho hype. Hipster and student friendly.
- 322Beach BabylonOriental BayPicturesque and sun-drenched outside in summer, cosy, close and warm in winter, this cool little retro cafe based on beautiful Oriental Parade. has it all. No better way to spend a chilled out day off than meandering along the waterfront before perching yourself at a table by the window to watch the sun set. Open 'til late, evening-goers are rewarded with delicious sweet and savoury fondue from 5.30, with the blue choose option not for the faint hearted! An inspired menu includes delicious sangria by the jug, feijoa mojitos and boutique beers. Rumour has it they've added winter cocktails to their menu too...
- 45Motel BarTe AroLaying claim to being the darkest bar in Wellington is a bold claim indeed, but Motel might just take the crown. A hipster joint with bartenders who know their Manhattans from their Mint Juleps, the concoction of potent liquor and the ambience of the place should mean you’ll be here for more than just the one drink.
- 52You’ll have to forgive me here for my hazy recollection of my night at Alice, but I’m sure I won’t be alone in having indulged in one too many teapots here. As so many of the funkiest bars here are, Alice is hidden away down a nondescript alley, in this case Forresters Lane. A little taste of old Blighty, Alice has a quaint, English, Alice in Wonderland theme, with matching cocktails to boot. The Long Island Ice Tea looks so inoffensive and cute in that little teapot and served on a doily, but really should come with a disclaimer; massive hangover ahead.
Josh L.'s
Week night deals
- 17Kapai Courtenay PlaceTe AroNutritious, tasty goodness on the cheap. Between 5-7pm every day, Kapai sells a selection of their delicious Long Johns (think Kiwi themed, healthy kebabs) for just 6 bucks. Their RRP of between $10-12 dollars are a steal, so get in after work for a fast feed which you couldn't even begin to make at home for a measly $6.
- 219One of the most chic bars in the city. Inauspiciously located above BK on Courtenay Place, the Library is a hive of low-fi, urban decadence that Wellington does best. Lavishly decorated with, believe it or not, books from head to toe, the Library is a moody, solemn bar in the week, before thankfully shedding some of its super-serious persona on the weekend. Imaginative cocktails and 2 for 1 desserts on Tuesdays should keep you coming back for more.
- 35The Black SparrowMount VictoriaSurely the only place in the city where you can order a "Daisy Buchanan", a "Breakfast at Tiffanys" or a "Casino Royale" without being pointed in the direction of IMDB and your bed. Located below, yes you guessed it, the grandiose Embassy, the Black Sparrow is the perfect place to bookend a movie with an aperitif and a digestif. All the better if you happen to visit on a Tuesday, as 2 for 1 cocktails are all the rage after 5pm. Arguably some of the finest cocktails in the city.
- 432Chow ToryTe AroPeckish after 9 30? Restaurants closing, about to resort to generic, bland fast food? Chow is the answer. Located on Tory Street and open every night until midnight, this Asian Fusion, informal restaurant is a hit. Tapas style bites, flavoursome curries and salads bursting with fresh herbs are all on offer. 2 for 1 cocktails on Wednesdays and Saturdays only add to the allure. Take always also available if you wanna take the party home. The salt and pepper squid is sensational!
- 54Osteria Del ToroTe AroOsteria del Toro's menu is a whirlwind tour around the culinary delights of the Mediterranean in microcosm; fragrant Paella sits happily alongside lamb Souvalaki skewers, whilst the awesome Charcuterie platter wrestles it's Continental neighbours for your attention. The Italian offering, however, is stealing a march on the rest with the sublime, so-authentic-you-could-be-in-Rome, Pizzeria. Crafted in front of your very eyes, the pizza at this lavishly decorated restaurant on Tory Street is to die for. Meataly through to Pear and Gorganzola, the pizza here is amongst the best I've tried in Wellington. Gluten free pizza is readily available, as well as white pizzas (no tomato sauce base.) Perhaps the most alluring feature of the Pizzeria is that up until 5pm on weekdays, Osteria del Toro run a 2 for 1 promotion. Cheery, cosmopolitan wait staff only add to the feel good factor, whilst all the quintessential Mediterranean cocktails are available. Lunch for 2 for a measly $23 dollars has never been better.
Josh L.'s
Where to take your sweet tooth
- 19Strawberry Fare RestaurantMount VictoriaMention the words 'Strawberry Fare' to any sweet-toothed Wellingtonian foodie and chances are they'll regale you with wide eyed tales of banoffi pies and sticky date puddings. Wacky, over the top and firmly tongue-in-cheek, an 80s vibe pervades both food and decor. Genuinely pleasant staff add to the feel good factor. Main courses and lunch are on offer here too but it is impossible to look past the endless choice of sweet goodness on offer here. Strawberry Fare has a firm sense of identity and is, for me, one of the most memorable dining spots in the city.
- 212Nic Nac'sTe AroA collection of imported sweet, sugary goodies from all over the globe. Resisting the temptation to pop in here every time I pass by is difficult, especially since it happens to be most days. Feel like a toddler again as you scoop up 100 grams of lollies into your little bag. Taking a trip down sweet-toothed nostalgia alley is no bad thing once in a while (but just not every day!).
- 39ArobakeAro ValleyAro Bake will always hold fond memories of my time in Wellington. Scaling the impossible peak of Aro Valley was always a hardship, although such a feat was invariably made easier with an Arobake in hand. Freshly baked, artisan bread as well as more patisserie than you can shake a stick at is at your disposable. This lovely little bakery catches some awesome early summer, afternoon sun; perfect for a lazy few hours.
- 436Midnight EspressoWellington CentralPerhaps the hippest little cafe on Cuba, serving inexpensive gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian treats until (very!) late. As you might expect, the Havana coffee served here is amongst the best in town. There is a mind-boggling amount of choice here, if you're anything like me you'll need a good five minutes to take it all in. All day brunch is a winner, the vegan hash brown stack being an absolute high point, whilst you really should believe the nacho hype. Hipster and student friendly.
- 519One of the most chic bars in the city. Inauspiciously located above BK on Courtenay Place, the Library is a hive of low-fi, urban decadence that Wellington does best. Lavishly decorated with, believe it or not, books from head to toe, the Library is a moody, solemn bar in the week, before thankfully shedding some of its super-serious persona on the weekend. Imaginative cocktails and 2 for 1 desserts on Tuesdays should keep you coming back for more.