Steak house in Wellington

“Makara Beach Cafe (Wharekai) is a special place. It’s in one of the wildest parts of New Zealand. The cafe is open Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays (subject to management’s discretion) from 11am till 5pm (again… it can change!!). It’s actually a really hard place to run a cafe because of its location. You either drive through Takarau Gorge (a narrow, winding road through an active fault from Johnsonville), or Makara Road via Karori (more friendly for inexperienced drivers). While only 15-20 minutes from the city, it is considered remote. There is very little infrastructure out there. No town water services exist, there is a public toilet block with 2 loos and a change room. They are connected to a septic system and there is no drinkable public water supply (byo or buy one at the cafe). Everyone working here is a local resident. The current proprietors have dedicated their lives to serving their community. They are the local posties, working 7 days a week…. Ronnie and Mark decided to take up the lease of the cafe post-covid. There is nothing else anywhere nearby. The nearby Makara Beach walkway is the busiest public recreational walking track in the whole Wellington Region! Ronnie, once the catering manager with Cook Strait ferries, brings her epic culinary skills to creating and cooking everything on the menu personally, in a very small kitchen. She batters the fish as ordered, making some of the freshest and most delicious fish and chips you will ever have. Her Lasagne is legendary, Toasties are a very popular mainstay (if you are Coeliac, you can even have a Gluten Free toastie!!!). The Big Beefy Burger is always a winner after doing an epic walk to the gun emplacements. I personally can’t get enough of the Bacon and Egg Butties! Ronnie has an extensive menu, catering for all tastes and levels of hunger, including those of our most precious Tamariki (children). The cafe’s busy-ness is directly linked to weather conditions and time of the year. On a sunny day with little wind, you can guarantee the Makara Beach area will be very busy. It is advisable to take this into consideration when trying to park, use the bathrooms and the cafe. Obviously, you may need to wait for services.. including the toilets!!! Perhaps consider whether you should visit the area on such days if you are likely to be frustrated by waiting in queues. The services here are provided by Wellington Council. It is almost impossible to consistently predict the numbers of visitors to the area and visitors need to plan accordingly. This can result in the cafe being closed with little warning if the weather is terrible. There is very little shelter outside the cafe. During summer’s hot days please ensure you have sufficient water, sun cream, hats and shelters. Also respect the residents and the animals (including the recently released Kiwi) who reside there. Park in allocated spaces along Makara Road or in the carpark behind the toilets. Don’t block driveways or the boat ramp access or park on septic tanks and planted areas. Don’t use people’s homes as a urinal and please dispose of your rubbish in the bins provided. Ronnie, Mark and staff do everything they can to make the best food and drinks, and provide the best experience possible for visitors. Their hearts are in everything they do, stop by for a chat and say hi!”

“I had the Wagyu Rib which was superb with Jasmine rice. I also had the ice cream for desert which had ginger and pepper flavor and topped with thin strands of a very light pastry. Both 5 out of 5.”

“we absolutely loved this place. it was recommended by a co worker as a meat place, but in my opinion I enjoyed better other things. I enjoyed the tempura oysters and the croquetas , incredible tasty. the dessert was also perfect. The meat was good, but personally I don't enjoy when the put so many sauces to what in where in my opinion the main flavour should be the meat only. In the menu it did say it would have a sauce, but I thought it would be on the side! and they actually put 2 different sauces !! way too much! The environment and service were both up to point and the restaurant had a retro European feel which we loved. We are definitely going back for more , sooner rather than later ! (sauces on the side this time)”

“Have been able to try many of the dinner options. Beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The venison and lamb have been cooked perfectly, tender and succulent. Fresh gourmet veges, jus and sauces. Highly recommend any of the dishes. The duck was also amazing.”

“There's not many times I rate places highly, but this is one of those – A fabulous evening for our, sort of, party of five (one was takeout due to illness) Our recent visit was an absolute delight, with each dish thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. We were a party of five, and the quality of both food and service exceeded expectations. Mains Birria Tacos (2 orders): The beef was exceptionally tender and juicy, cooked to perfection and full of flavor. Roasted Pepper Quesadilla: A standout dish with a perfectly crisp exterior, balanced by rich, melted cheese and tender roasted vegetables and fruits. Roasted Cauliflower: Simple yet delicious, this dish was well-seasoned and delicious. Chicken Quesadilla (Takeaway): Our youngest, who was unfortunately unable to join us due to a migraine, thoroughly enjoyed this dish at home. He said it was “really nice”. Sharing Plate Salsas and Dips with Corn Chips: A great starter for the table. The trio of dips was well-received, with the group informally ranking them 1-3 from left to right as presented in the picture. While the green dip was the least favoured, all were enjoyed and complemented the chips well. Desserts Churros (2 orders, 1 takeaway): These were a highlight. Both in-house and takeaway servings were praised for their crisp texture and were perfectly paired with chocolate and caramel sauces. In-House Special Sponge with Ice Cream (2 orders): A refined dessert with soft sponge and delicate flavours that matched beautifully with the ice cream. Overall, the experience was outstanding. The menu offered a limited, but wonderful variety, and each dish was crafted with care. We look forward to returning and highly recommend this restaurant to others.”

“We had a very relaxing 3 course meal and drinks at field and greens. Very nice starters mains and dessert along with friendly service made for a great date night. Keep up the great work we will be back!”

“Came here to get the wagyu. Tried the bruschetta and it was delicious. The balsamic sauce and the hummus were so good together, tomatoes were fresh, and the bread was tasty as well. My seasonal fruit mojito was super tangy but tasted great. Had some spencer potatoes as well which was a good addition to my main, which was the A5 Kagoshima Wagyu. Literally melted in my mouth, it was super fatty and was so good together try for the first time. For dessert I tried their seasonal fruit sorbet, which was icy, and at the time the sorbet was very tangy, but was good overall. I also got the layered honey cake which was 10/10.”

“My friend wanted to try Concord out and having perused the menu online (who doesn’t) I was in like Flynn. We shared the pate entree that was delish. The only negative was the chargrilled toast tasted burnt. But the pate was sublime. My friend had the steak sandwich “rocking” was her review. I had the fish. This was outstanding. Cooked to perfection, a flavourful delicate butter sauce and fresh, Al dente asparagus. The best. The ambience was awesome and the service was great. Didn’t get the server’s name but she was a delight. Highly recommend.”

“Very nice cocktails and foods. Scottish bar manager Rio, she is super friendly and lovely. Great vibes ! I like outside table when sun is out.”

“Super cool space that you would never know existed above the storefront. We ate too quickly to take photos, but had the Thai beef salad, big breakfast, and the standard two egg plate. My son had a salted caramel milkshake that he said was wonderful. They have a full soda bar and coffee bar along with amazing pastries. It’s a little loud inside. The view is absolutely amazing even on this cloudy day. This is a fun place to eat with great food!”

“I lovee this place i could eat all items on thier menu multiple times every day esp the pork roll the kumara and potatos are also so satisfying and the crackling brings everything to a 10 love this place”

“Great local fish and chip shop, with great value for money - particularly with the "special packs". Always lovely people. Aside from the special packs, also solidly rate the "super burger" :) Great "fish and chip shop"-style burger which is very solid. Many thanks from us :) Keep being awesome”

“2 words....Crazy Good! Thanks to our host Anthony, The Chefs and crew for an outstanding Italian experience. Honestly the best Pasta I've tried. This restaurant is another great addition to the Petone food scene on Jackson. Unbelievable food, exceptional service and nice relaxed atmosphere. Thanks, we will be back for more!”

“Had the most lovely first experience at grazie lower Hutt. Didn't know what to expect but the service was excellent, friendly and not over the top. My partner and I shared two starters- calamari and truffle butter flatbread and wow was not expecting such generous portions. The calamari was light and perfectly cooked and a hidden treat of fried zucchini at the bottom were so delicious I would love to be able to order just a bowl of those! I had the mushroom and leek fettuccine with toasted pistachios for main. It was very indulgent and delicious, my only criticism would be it was a tad too creamy but I think that's a preference thing and after the big starters it wrecked me a bit. My partner really enjoyed the brisket Cannelloni. We had no room for dessert but looked great! Not a cheap place but I feel the quality and portion size makes it worth it. Will definitely return for another special date night ❣️”

“Family dinner for our babies’ Papa’s 72nd birthday ❤️ Live one man band was awesome tonight.”

“Great spot, hidden in plain sight. Seated and served promptly and meals very delicious. Have a great little gourmet burger selection too.”

“We love this place, food is always great, hot and fresh. They cook it in front of you and it’s very entertaining, kid friendly or fun for a few drinks as the start of a good night”

“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”

“Great food—the chicken burger is fantastic and the portions are large. Convenient parking and lovely service from our server, Sharron. Will definitely return!”

“Outstanding service and food. My partner and I came here because we were looking for a steak house within the Lower Hutt area to try. We were blown away with our rib eye steaks and desserts. I loved the mushroom sauce which came with the rib eye steak. For dessert I had the lemon tart which was delicious!! My partner had the Whitakers chocolate dessert; he loved it! It was too rich for me, but if you’re a sweet tooth you’d love it!”

“Salmon was delicious and came out super fast. Very friendly service. Indoor and outdoor seating options with a gorgeous views!”

“Coffee to die for and beautiful authentic seafood chowder deliciously thick and packed with real seafood. Big thanks to Nish and Liam.”

“Superbly modern pub in a great location! The Hudson looks warm and appealing for the Wellington exterior and getting inside does not disappoint! This free house and stillhouse offers great New Zealand craft beer and an excellent range of international gins. This is all topped off with a secluded, upstairs whisky bar and excellent delicatessen. The Hudson is a revamped and modern take on a British gastro-pub. The craft beer list is kept so up to date they don’t bother with menus, instead projecting the current tap selection on the wall. For May’s Hopstock festival, the Hudson is hosting Liberty Brewing’s best beers and absolutely spoiling Wellingtonians. The gin bar has a spectacular range including Malfy’s delicious orange and grapefruit variants. Locals Denizen Gin also have high billing. If you’re unsure spin the $12 gin wheel and you’ll likely be treated to something new and interesting like The Botanist, Beefeater’s Pink Gin or a choice from the Handman range. Bar snacks are also delicious with curved meats carved and sliced in front of you. This is all topped off with a great wine list and superbly welcoming staff. The Hudson has a great atmosphere and is filled up when most pubs would be quiet. It’s a great option for Saturday afternoon drinks and cozy chats. Go here for a warm welcome and enjoy sampling your way through an excellent range of good drink!”

“Hardware bar is the jewel in the crown for Stokes Valley dining. Its very warm, inviting, with staff that go above and beyond on service. Plus you can bring your fur baby here too!. The food is delicious with generous portion size. The Ribs are the best in Wellington. Will return again, and bring many more vistors”

“Really good fish and chips. The fish was fresh and the chips were well cooked. Very tidy and well decorated shop, including tables and space to eat in. Well worth their reputation. So glad I checked them out.”

“The food and the service was excellent. Pizza was delicious and staff were friendly. Everything happened in a very timely manner despite there being several large groups in. 10/10 would recommend. It was really quite loud inside though which is to be expected in a busy restaurant”

“The food was great and the service was fast...prices were reasonable, we got 12 dishes and came to 240. I'd say that's cheap!!! The only down fall the seating was so crowded there were 13 of us on a round table we couldn't even fit. They need to sort their space out”

“Anyone who asks for the best Peking duck in Wellington, this is where you come! They have the best chef from Beijing and you get so much meat! You can choose "one way", 2 ways (Peking duck with noodle stir fry) or 3 ways (duck bone soup) basically just use the rest of the duck and not wasting them. We got the 3 ways and the soup is nice and refreshing, noodles we could live without but it's fine. Bonus is their cold dish mung bean noodles is the best I've ever had and love their stir fried eggplant with mince stuffing.”

“A bonus that this restaurant is part of the hotel we’re staying in. Great atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable staff, absolutely delicious food. Steak and chips, cook exactly how we asked, accompanied by truffle butter. Chicken Tikka, with a trip of dips, accompanied by garlic naan, and rice. Not too spicy (perfect for those who don’t like spice) my favourite dip was the tzatziki style. Kids meals come with a drink and dessert. Mac and cheese, perfect size for for kids, my son enjoyed it but I through it was too cheesy. Ice cream sundae was very cute, 1 single scoop with marshmallows, sprinkles and wafers. Forgot to take photo before we started eating so here is what we got”

“Fell in love from the outside already. Finally had the chance to come here with my partner and it was absolutely beautiful.the food was delicious. The service super nice and attentative. Even their drinks tasted unique and amazing at the same time. Will definitely be back! Thanks Team!”