French cuisine restaurant in Wellington

“We had the absolute pleasure of being looked after by Tapan at Jardin Grill, and he truly made the entire experience exceptional. From the moment we arrived, his warm welcome and genuine attentiveness set the tone for the evening. He struck the perfect balance between professionalism and friendliness, making us feel both valued and comfortable. Tapan’s knowledge of the menu and recommendations were spot on”

“We very much enjoyed our dining experience at Lone Star Petone. The food was excellent and the servers very friendly.”

“The space is gorgeous and the staff was incredible, the service was very personal and warm. The food was incredible and unexpectedly flavoursome. We had dishes refreshungly unique and honestly the whole experience was amazing.”

“I had the pleasure of dining at this wonderful restaurant, and I must say, it was a delightful experience from start to finish. The restaurant boasts a tantalizing array of authentic Arabic kababs and a diverse selection of other mouthwatering dishes that truly transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East. The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the kababs; they were perfectly seasoned and the meat was grilled to perfection, offering a blend of flavors and tenderness that was simply exceptional. Each bite was a journey through the rich culinary traditions of the region, leaving me craving more. What truly sets this restaurant apart, however, is not just the delectable food but also the impeccable service and the warm, friendly atmosphere. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to make your dining experience memorable. They are more than willing to offer recommendations and provide insights into the menu, making even newcomers feel right at home.”

“One of Wellington's hidden gems — absolutely amazing food and drink, catering to anyone's dietary requirements. Edit 2020/12/01: As of 8 months later, the food is even more amazing — a testament how the staff always welcome constructive criticism and use it to continually improve. Definitely recommended!”

“We’ve always enjoyed the high-quality, convenient daytime meals at Sushil’s Musclechef, but our first evening dining experience was something genuinely special. The evening service offers a more intimate and refined atmosphere, paired with a thoughtful menu that highlights Sushil’s unique culinary identity—blending cultural heritage and modern flavour in a way that feels deeply personal and original. We started with the pumpkin soup with coconut, rich and comforting, and the smoked chicken Caesar salad, fresh, vibrant, and beautifully presented. The mains were outstanding: the braised lamb shank was melt-in-your-mouth tender, infused with bold, soulful flavour, while the market fish was perfectly cooked and delicately seasoned. Dessert was a highlight—the chocolate fondant, with its warm molten centre and vanilla bean ice cream, was pure indulgence. We ended the night with extra hot oat flat whites, smooth and perfectly made. While the daytime menu brings quality and convenience, the evening experience feels crafted, personal, and elevated—a reflection of Sushil’s passion for food and hospitality. His presence and care make all the difference. A special experience worth repeating. We’ll definitely be back. A true local gem. Lalo Fiso”

“Ordered two beef salads and two Pad Thai’s - best Pad Thai in Wellington- this is honestly the best takeaway place in Johnsonville- love all their meals!”

“Wow wow wow. A truly transcendent dining experience, Ortega Fish Shack is a shining exemplar of culinary excellence, rivaling our beloved Chef's Table. Every aspect of our visit was nothing short of extraordinary. The service was impeccable, the food sublime. The oysters were a revelation, the steak cooked to perfection. Honestly, it's a testament to the power of exceptional cuisine to uplift and inspire.”

“We had a lovely time dining at Rita. The service was very friendly, professional, and attentive. The restaurant is set in a cute narrow building and they make good use of the space. The design is minimalist. We enjoyed all our dishes. Portion sizes are on the smaller side, but you’re not coming here for quantity. It’s about the quality and pairing of the ingredients. You’ll still leave feeling full. Would easily recommend to anyone looking for something new and different. Note the menu changes regularly, I think even daily. Whatever is on the menu that day is what you’ll get. Great if you struggle to make decisions!”

“It's a take out place. The food was amazing. They are not kidding on the level of Sichuan”

“Dining at Polemo the other night was an absolute treat. Nestled right on the waterfront, the restaurant offers not just stunning views but also exceptional food and service. The beef short ribs were a standout—so tender and flavorful they quite literally melted in your mouth. The pork belly roll was equally impressive, perfectly seasoned to bring out its rich flavours. A special shoutout to Kevin for his excellent menu recommendations, and to Kelly who is a dessert queen that panna cotta was phenomenal!”

“Maybe not my first review but again this is my forever favorite dine in place in all Wellington. The fusion of several asian cuisine with the vegan twist is unbeatable. They are real chef and the food is always a great delight. Pictures on the menu are already mouth-watering, but when you get your meal, uggh HEAVEN!! i will give them 10 stars! So happy to support a small business that makes me travel in the courae of dining. Thank you”

“Great food and restaurant layout, and open Mondays, thank goodness. Tasty food, we did the "Fratelli Feast" (Mondays and Tuesdays) deal with an entrée to share, a main and dessert of your choice. Added extra sides of "Brussels sprouts" and "Garlic and truffle oil fries", they were delicious. Nice wine and lemonchello too. There are specials, we saw the pan fried fish which looked very good. The staff were friendly and attentive, we will come back again.”

“Amazing experience for our Valentine's Day date! The set menu was excellent value and a stunning range of flavours. Good service and cozy atmosphere. Our only minor constructive feedback is we weren't aware of the set menu until we arrived. It wasn't an issue for us, however being proactively informed beforehand would have been appreciated :-). Thanks for an excellent meal - we'll be back!”

“Very tasty food in a low key setting. One of the nicest chicken kormas I have ever had. Others in the group thoroughly enjoyed their balti dishes. Attentive yet respectful service. A hidden gem in Miramar!”

“Beautiful villa restaurant tucked in between two high rise buildings. Came for WoW and absolutely loved the service, the staff were interesting in talking to us and very friendly. The food was exceptional - one of us had the set menu for WoW and two ordered off the menu (love that option).”

“New to Wellington and still looking for that nice little gem.. and I think we have found it. Great service, Tasty well presented cocktails, food is. Beautiful and tasty. Great place will be back. Love this place. Best chilli infused tequila. If you like a good quality margarita try the Californian Reaper !”

“You look fore something special, this place is special. The location inside the Beehive is superb. The flair is just delightful, and then there is the food. The set menu was very, very nice. The flavors superb, the freshness and the combination of textures first class. This place is a notch better than the Logan Brown where it belongs to. And I do not know if I have found a better place in New Zealand so far. I will come back, for sure.”

“I'm always a fan of going to restaurants located slightly outside the central city area. I tend to feel a sense of community and not to mention supporting local business. Prime spot in Brooklyn, and you won't miss it. To top it off, friendly service always helps. I felt the layout creates a different vibe through the restaurant, a nice touch. My personal favourite on the night was the prawn toasts, yummm and the chef's dessert of the night.”

“A lovely place with great service - they kept filling water and attending to every table with friendly service. I was there after lunchtime but it was still pretty busy. I had the avo & halloumi on toast, and the sourdough was to die for!!! Honestly, it was one of the best breads I have ever had, no joke. I asked if they sold it separately - sadly, no. I would have bought some. :) But I inhaled the meal and it was great. Just the right size too. Loved it! Would be back. And would find some meal that has that awesome bread, yum!!”

“Fabulous tasty food and plenty of it. 5 people and we shared all the food and it was great. Served on lovely plates and looked and tasted amazing. The staff did a great job of explaining the menu to us and what each dish came with and entailed. We had to attend an event and the food came in great time. The cocktails were also great and the wine list was good. only issue was they didn't sell bubbles by the glass so we just had to buy a bottle and that was superb. We didn't have room for any dessert which was a shame as they sounded amazing. we will be back”

“My friend and I came in to have something to eat and chat. We were met with amazing service, so kind and caring when ordering our food. We weren't too hungry so we shared a mixed meat on chips and they brought it out with an extra plate for us to share. The meat on chips was the most delicious one we've had yet. So filling yet refreshing at the same time. We couldn't stop talking about how amazing the meal was. New favourite food place in wellington 5 stars!”

“Friendly staff, fair prices. I loved the variety of crepes. I'd recommend the kiwi or chocolate one. It's also cool how you can watch them make it. I'll be coming here again ❤️”

“Lovely place for date night !! We did the "first table" deal and worked great for us. We tried quite a few items of the menu and had great savings. I would absolutely recommend the fish crudo, the Rib eye and the truffle gnocchi. I know is a meat restaurant, but let me say the gnocchi was one of the best I've had; the onion soubise was espectacular, airy and tasty. In general the sides were ok, Caesar salad was good AND the puré as well, would probably not order the mushrooms again. Desserts were good, specially the tiramisú. Would've appreciated a chocolate option as well... The service by the two french ladies was perfect! Attentive and professional. Would recommend !”

“With all the over-cluttered trimmings and loud bargaining customers of an entrepreneurial Greek Trader’s, A Taste of Greece comes with the authenticity of a loving Greek mother that will tell you to indulge in the lemon cream Bougatsa pastry. Though a little space, A Taste of Greece offers every facet of the Greek experience you could want, from over-stuffed shelves filled with olive oils by the litre, sardines, fine salts, and classic Hellenic confectionery to cabinet food offering five types of feta, the biggest baklava slices you’ve seen, and savoury delicacies you wish your own mother could cook. Stay in for the Greek Burger or Halloumi Salad, both are very reasonably priced and simply delivered. A good takeaway menu means you don’t have to contend for one of the five little tables, though be aware that this place serves Greek souvlaki, not the mis-labelled souvlaki Christchurch residents are so adamant about. Go here to feel all the warmth of a big Greek family, and enjoy the moments between delicious bites where you ponder buying an ornament Greek Orthodox cross or quoting My Big Fat Greek Wedding.”

“Enjoyed the amazing service and food. Was served by the young fella, was the first time trying greek cuisine, beautiful flavours. Nice location, easy to find.”

“Just had the most amazing 3 course meal featuring Sri Lankan Hoppers. Incredible food, really lovely service and got to see the hoppers being made by the chef. The flavours were outstanding, highly recommend eating at the T Lounge by Dilmah. Keep an eye out for their specialties Thursday and Friday nights.”

“Kisa in Wellington was an absolute delight — every dish felt fresh, light, and wonderfully authentic. The menu offered a perfect mix of vibrant veggies and flavorful meats, made for sharing and savoring. The atmosphere had that rare warmth that makes you want to stay just a little longer, and the service was attentive, genuine, and kind. Perfect for a long lunch or an easygoing dinner — highly recommend.”

“Fantastic and masterful! If you are looking for a unique, plant-forward dining experience, Hillside Kitchen is a must-visit. My husband and I enjoyed the ten-course (Menu B) tasting menu and non-alcoholic pairing. Every plate was beautifully presented, creative, and designed with thoughtful and perfectly curated flavor combinations. As a vegetarian, we truly appreciated how vegetables were showcased in such a celebratory and exciting way—each dish was a work of art, both visually and in taste. Beyond the food, the experience was fun and engaging. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, taking the time to explain each dish, which made the meal even more intimate. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere added to the overall vibe. The experience felt special, yet relaxed. I highly recommend treating yourself and your favorite humans to Hillside Kitchen!”