Aside from its amazing scenery, New Zealand is also known for being a culinary mecca of sorts where some of the best chefs in the world have chosen to set up shop. Perhaps nowhere in the country is this more apparent than in Wellington. Here are some places you shouldn’t miss.
Shed 5 Bar & Restaurant
Nobody does seafood in Wellington quite as well as Shed 5 and this is the place to go for your fishy fix. The ambience is more upscale than casual and prices reflect that, but the octopus salad and assiette are definitely worth the money.
The Larder
The great thing about The Larder is that all of the food here is locally sourced, so you know you’ll be helping the locals when dining out. The best thing, though, is the food is downright delectable. Do yourself a favor and try the seared calves liver.
Monsoon Poon
For a laidback atmosphere and affordable prices, in addition to fantastic food, look no further than Monsoon Poon. This restaurant serves up Asian-inspired dishes from countries ranging from Indian to Malaysia. If your stomach can handle a little kick, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Ortega Fish Shack
Ortega Fish Shack might just be the most popular place in Wellington, if the nightly packed houses here are any evidence. The European-inspired seafood selections are served fresh and the atmosphere is a ton of fun, especially for families with small kids.
Matterhorn
Sometimes you just need a good drink rather than a full meal, and Matterhorn is the place to go to relax. They have an extensive selection of coffee, beer, wine and spirits to choose from, as well as an eclectic array of musicians that perform on a regular basis. It’s a favorite among locals.
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Under $100: Wellington, New Zealand
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