If people ask me about Wellingtonians, and their most unique characteristic. I always reply, that we are OBSESSED with food.
Fortunately, I am not the only one to have realized that and the amazing people of this city have come together to set up Press Hall. Press Hall is now my favourite place for lunch in Wellington. It is very close to where I work and just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Lambton Quay.
No where else in Wellington is like Press Hall! From the architecture to the food offerings, it is what Wellington had been crying out for. Now, excitingly, Press Hall is opening in the evenings. That is a truly WONDERFUL thing because Wellingtonians who are closer to Willis Street, working late or generally just having a cruise, need somewhere delicious and tasty to eat.
And even more good news is in – with the Lux Light festival on (which I covered last year, here) – Press Hall is staying open later and it even has some concessions, like Yoshi and Fratelli, being licensed to serve a glass of wine or a dry cold beer with your food. The lighting installation is up for LUX from 18-27 May and Press Hall will be open late for Thursday’s, Friday’s, and Saturday’s during the festival. Now THAT is living Wellington.
A Guide to Press Hall – Eat the World, New Zealand Eats & Just Desserts
Eat The World!
China - Bao Boy Steamed Buns
Are you rushed? Need a meal you can hold in your hand but don’t want a boring sandwich? Bao Boy, brought to you by the creators of Dragonfly, is the way to go. Personally, I am always chastising myself for not branching out more but I truly love coming back time and time again for a pork bao or some dumplings. This is, to date, my most visited concession.
USA - Tommy Millions Pizza
…except for, perhaps, Tommy Millions. Tommy, Tommy, Tommy. What more is there to say about Tommy? He was a good boy once, working in a law job until he threw it all in to focus on like life of a humble pizza maker. I once hung out with Tommy at a wedding and can confirm that not only is he as wonderful as his pizza, but that these folks deserve every success. The pizza is always consistent, cheesy and delicious. Make sure you try the porker.
Greece – Souvlaki at Acropolis
I am so excited to visit the Greek Islands later this year, and mainly, let’s be honest, for the food. I love Souvlaki and I can only say if you haven’t eaten chips rolled in pita bread, you are missing out! This is the place to go for sticky, sweet baklava, rich Spanakopita and oozing delicious flavours. Bring extra napkins with you. They even do Gluten Free!
Vietnamese – Nam D
Niki Chung who is the founder of Nam D is a powerhouse. With multiple Nam D all over Wellington, you might wonder whether we need another one. My answer? Absolutely! I LOVE Nam D for lunch, mainly because it doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down. I like the beef and spring roll noodles, the delicious baguettes and sublime zesty sauces. Nam D is like a hug for your belly.
Japan – Yoshi Sushi
Yoshi Sushi is the best for really fresh, consistent sushi. I love their veggie tempura and California rolls. Perfect for when you are on the go and need something fresh and healthy(ish). Add a miso for extra energy. Or Sake. Whichever suits. Licensed.
Mexico – Mad Mex
Mad Mex is a brand close to my heart. And all I EVER order is a Grande Melt with Chorizo and Guacamole. What can I say? If it ain’t broke. One of my favourite places to eat ever. These guys have a very interesting story about how they got started, buying an Australian Franchise in New Zealand. They also run Pita Pit. Do I care that it has Aussie roots with Kiwi brawn? So long as I get my mandarin fizzy drink and rich, cheesy melt – absolutely not.
Italy – Fratelli Pasta Bar
Pasta, pasta, pasta! This is somewhere I WANT to try very much, and so tomorrow night I think I will persuade Matt to visit LUX with me and then to head to eat some delicious Ragu at the little fratello di Fratelli. I studied Italian at University and I cannot understand why I still am yet to try this! It’s probably those distracting Bao. Licensed
A Taste of New Zealand
The Lab Food and Beverage
I recall The Lab from when Matt was studying at Victoria University. Now this local has rolled down the hill from Kelburn and is making a splash with its clean juices, smoothies, hot coffee, delicious sandwiches and yummy salads. Pick this if you want something crisp, and easy.
Aroha
Aroha is a place which I am excited to try at Press Hall the food is plant-based, and heavy on healthy veggies, prepared with love. They also promise scrummy sauces and are here to show that vegan can be very, very good. Perfect for when you’re having a low-energy day and need some a powerful bowl of goodness to pep you right up.
Just Desserts
Cake Society
Cake Society are making waves with their sweet treats, sumptuous sandwiches, great coffee and craft cocktails. Why not finish of LUX with a bit of luxury from Cake Society, sharing a decadent cake and quaffing the best drinks in town.
Still to come…
Amador: The Hanging Ditch guys from Eva Street are part-owners of a new bar to be upstairs where the great wine and cocktails can continue into the night. Stay tuned.
Hayashi Teppanyaki: Of course if you need something a bit different, you might like to try some teppanyaki, along with sashimi, tempura, Japanese grilled fish, wagyu and more. This is a perfect destination for some after work nibbles and cocktails with your gal pals from the office. Make sure you check it out!
In all honesty, I just want to say how thrilled I am that a cool place to enjoy eats is here for Wellington. Well done McKee Fehl Construction for having the vision to see this through. And watch out Ponsonby Central! There’s a new kid in town…
*This Blog Post was kindly sponsored by Press Hall but as usual all opinions are my own