Thorndon, located in Wellington, New Zealand, offers a dynamic food and drink scene that caters to various tastes and preferences. The area features a wide range of options, from fine dining establishments to casual eateries and bars. One notable restaurant in Thorndon is the Thistle Inn, which has been serving patrons since 1840 and is New Zealand's oldest surviving tavern. The Thistle Inn offers an all-day gastropub experience with a tasty menu and a selection of local wines, beers, and spirits. Tours of the historic building are available for those interested in learning more about its rich history.
In addition to traditional establishments, Thorndon is home to diverse culinary offerings that reflect Wellington's vibrant food scene. The city has been influenced by international flavors and combinations due to travelers bringing back experiences from overseas. As a result, you can find a variety of cuisines, including top-notch Indian restaurants like Great India and Chaat Street, authentic Burmese at Mabels, Japanese-inspired Koji, and Malaysian favorites at Little Penang. Thorndon also boasts sustainable seafood-focused Graze, plant-based Hillside eatery, and chef Monique Fiso's Hiakai restaurant, which showcases Maori cuisine with a focus on native ingredients. These innovative dining options highlight the growing trend towards locally sourced, high-quality produce in Wellington's food scene.
The area around Courtenay Place and Cuba Street is particularly known for its fine dining and bar-type eateries, offering visitors a wide range of choices. With more cafes per capita than New York City, Wellington's overall restaurant scene is super-vibrant, featuring both local New Zealand cuisine and international dishes, especially Polynesian and Asian fare. From historic pubs to diverse international cuisine, Thorndon provides a memorable culinary journey for travelers exploring Wellington, New Zealand.