2022’s best new openings in Wellington so far

 Dominating Cuba Street is Kisa, a beloved Wellington spot. What once started as a pop-up restaurant amassed a dedicated following and permanent location! Taking centre stage (literally in the middle of the restaurant) is the barbeque oven. Kisa’s menu was inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine with a large Turkish influence. 

The team at Kisa expertly create flavourful dishes that leave a lasting impression. From silky smooth hummus with a big personality to spicy lamb kebabs. Our go-to dish is the wild goat mince lahmacun with pickled green tomatoes, toum and hot honey.

A fan-favourite pop-up restaurant from Wellyonaplate 2021 has officially put down roots in the heart of the city with a permanent position in the CBD. Chaat Street is a fast-casual eatery offering a delectable selection of South Asian cuisine with a focus on Indian street eats. 

The tapa-inspired menu features goodies like Gol-Gappe, slow-cooked kumara with a top-secret spice mix and the legendary chicken momos. The latter is akin to dumplings, served with a spicy dried chilli chutney. Chaat Street provides diners with authentic flavours, unique creations and unforgettable experiences. 

Concord is hard to miss with its signature red and blue lighting visible from the street. Located in the beautiful and historical Mibar Building, it’s a must-visit. The elegant restaurant is inspired by European bistros of the 20th century. 

Sit amongst velvet and gold as you sample seasonal cooking and an extensive wine list. Live the high life with oysters and caviar, then progress to baked camembert and steak sandwiches. For the main course, we recommend the half-roasted chicken with salad, sauces and bottomless fries. 

Baking and caffeinating, Lunch Money has your morning needs covered. Satisfying coffee cravings and sugar crashes all in a day’s work. The new café on the block has a quaint sitting area for those who want to stay and savour their treats. 

Load up on lattes, long blacks, lemon cheesecake cinnamon buns and cheesy scones. The sweet and savoury options available will have you spending all of your Lunch Money. 

Leading the charge with gourmet burgers is none other than Reburger. These monster creations are insanely large and incredibly indulgent. The infamous burgers range from smashed patties to chicken and pure beef to veggie delights. 

Our go-to is the legend burger, made with 150g pure beef patty, cheese, streaky bacon, a fried egg, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, mayo and ketchup. You will immediately fall into a food coma after this meal! Reburger also has a stellar range of sides including wraps, loaded fries, nuggets, waffles, onion rings and more.

Wellington’s favourite Italian deli is popping up stores all across the country’s capital. Bottega has opened another location in Dukes Arcade so that Wellingtonians everywhere can get their hands on its delicious treats. 

Expect authentic delicacies like arancini, gnocchi, rosemary focaccia and salami pizza. The deli-inspired restaurant makes it easy for diners to sample a little bit of everything and take home their favourite dishes to enjoy later!

New location, but the same vibes you know and love. Boneface Tavern has relocated to Mount Victoria! The retro eatery quickly stole the hearts of Wellingtonians with its funky fit-out, rotating Boneface tap beers and pinball machines. 

When it comes to the menu, we don’t even know where to start; everything looks incredible. From sausage pizza frittata to southern fried chicken, garlic frybread to smoked brisket burgers. However, it’s the Reuben toasted sammie that steals the show – made with rosemary potato bread, pastrami, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, dill pickles and sauerkraut. Perfection.