Hillside Wellington

Hillside is on Tinakori Road. It holds one hat from the 2024 NZ Cuisine Good Food Awards.

This contemporary restaurant offers a more disciplined approach to creative cooking than its counterparts near the Te Papa Museum. While many places in the city lean on heavy, traditional flavors to satisfy the tourist crowd, the kitchen here prioritizes a lighter, produce-led menu that feels intentional rather than forced. It is dressier than the casual bistros found closer to the Parliament Buildings, making it a better choice for those who want a formal rhythm to their evening. The room runs smart, providing a quiet setting that avoids the frantic pace of the waterfront.