The South Coast & Karaka Bays

• Maranui takes pride of place in the heart of Lyall Bay Beach. If you want to get in for brunch on the weekend, make sure you get there early! You’ll catch all the action on the waves while tucking into their fabulous all day menu. If the queues are a little too long try their sister cafe Queen Sally’s Diamond Deli for coffees and cabinet food. 

• The Botanist are well known for their plant-based ethos, and just across the road from the Lyall Bay playground and beach.  If you're after a bit of sunshine and sea breeze, then head out the back to their covered outdoor terrace. 

• The Spruce Goose is not only situated directly across from Lyall Bay’s premier surf break known as ‘The Corner’, it offers the perfect viewing for plane landings. This spot does a roaring brunch trade on the weekends. 

• The Beach House & Kiosk on the south coast cafe makes for a great stop on a weekend walk, and it’s close to Ōwhiro Bay. Park your car across the road and take yourself for a stroll, before rewarding your efforts with an excellent cafe meal. Did you know they have a very cute gift shop out the back too?

• Scorch O Rama takes much of its name from Scorching Bay where the cafe is located. Helmed by chef Burt and mate Keith this popular spot can get packed on the weekend, so be sure to book in!

Oriental Bay

• Beach Babylon is a retro styled spot that keeps the good vibes going all day and into the night, right in the heart of Oriental Bay.

• Pomelo Kitchen & Bar is just  upstairs from Beach Babylon, serving authentic Asian flavours with a modern twist in the evenings. 

• Coene’s Bar & Eatery places you right on the water with a deck boasting brilliant harbourside views.  Make this a stop-off on your next stroll around Oriental Bay. 

CBD

• Shed 5 is not only one of the oldest ‘sheds’ on Wellington’s waterfront, it’s been a stalwart of the capital’s culinary scene since 1992. A few famous faces have been through their doors and the fantastic food has remained constant. 

• Dockside is just around the corner from Shed 5 and offers modern kiwi fare. 

• Foxglove is a great spot to settle in for after work drinks, or a long leisurely lunch. Plus, they really smashed it out of the park with their 2023 Burger Wellington entry making the finalists. 

• Master Kong serves up delicious dumplings, bao and some pretty sweet deals.  Expect delicious modern Asian cuisine. 

Petone

• Seashore Cabaret gives retro-tastic vibes on Petone’s stunning shore. Plus, they have a couple of great mid-week deals including their legendary burger night!

Kāpiti

• Waterfront Bar & Eatery in Raumati Beach offers unparalleled views. This all day eatery is situated right next to the beach and playground.  Pop in for a weekend lunch or take in the sunset. 

Hungry for more foodie inspiration? Check out our other blogs at ‘What’s Fresh’.