Westown, New Zealand offers a vibrant food and drink scene that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. From fine dining establishments to casual eateries and craft breweries, the area provides visitors with a wide array of culinary experiences. One notable venue is Begin Distilling, located in Westown, which produces the popular Juno Gin using locally sourced botanicals and water from Mount Taranaki. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the distillery and participate in a gin tasting session with the owners, Dave and Jo.
In terms of dining options, Social Kitchen is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Situated within the former Salvation Army Citadel, the restaurant specializes in food to share and offers an inspired menu that includes dishes like firecracker chicken, hand cut beef tartare, and crowd pleasers such as beef brisket, lamb shoulder, and pork belly. Another highly rated establishment is Arborio, which consistently receives five-star reviews for its creative Asian-inspired flavors and modern atmosphere. Additionally, the Shining Peak Brewery serves up locally brewed craft beers alongside mouthwatering burgers made from Green Meadows Beef.
For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, Fork N Knife offers innovative New Zealand cuisine in a cozy setting, while Gusto provides stunning views of the port along with classic dishes like duck breast, rack of lamb, and slow-braised pork belly. The city center also boasts other options such as Salt Restaurant in the Millennium Hotel, Table at Nice Hotel, Meat & Liquor Steakhouse, and Begin Distillery's Juno Gin.
Westown's food scene extends beyond restaurants and bars, with local favorites including Billow's sourdough bread, regarded by many as some of the best in town. The area is home to several artisan producers, coffee roasters, and breweries, ensuring visitors have access to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and products during their stay.