Fact: breakfast IS the most important meal of the day. And whether you’re after a classic eggs benedict, decadent pancake stack or even next-level dining by the sea, Wellington is serving up pre-noon deliciousness in spades.
But with so much to choose from, how does a breakfast lover decide where to start? Luckily, we’ve discovered all the best spots to cure those morning munchies. Here are all the best places for breakfast in Wellington, handily categorised by location—you’re welcome.
Cuba Street
Fidel’s Cafe, Cuba Street
Since 1996 Fidel’s has been providing the people of Wellington with the goods. A winner for vegetarians, Fidel’s has a solid range of veggie options, as well as some mega meaty meals and pretty famous thick shakes.
Midnight Espresso, Cuba Street
For delicious eats that don’t break the bank, look no further than Cuba Street’s Midnight Espresso. Highlights of the predominantly vegetarian/vegan menu include dishes such as Eggs Midnight: a chickpea and veggie patty topped with poached eggs, spinach, green salad, red pesto, and hollandaise.
Loretta, Cuba Street
Loretta is the cool girl on the Wellington cafe scene. She’s effortlessly stylish, timeless, and pretty damn popular. Their natural, no-fuss style is also reflected in their menu; with wholesome, classic meals made from locally sourced ingredients.
Wellington Central
Neo Cafe & Eatery, Willis Street
Neo does a modern twist on a classic really, really well. Decked out in a bright, minimal interior, it’s the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday brunch. Serving pumpkin buttermilk pancakes, chilli parmesan fries and colourful superfood lattes—you really can’t go wrong.
Prefab, Jessie Street
Prefab has mastered the art of a chic, modern interior, with a laid-back, not-taking-themselves-too-seriously kind of vibe. Simple dishes are made with fresh ingredients (and bread baked on site), complemented with a bottomless cup of ACME filter coffee.
Best Ugly Bagels, Swan Lane & Featherston Street
The much-loved brainchild of chef Al Brown, Best Ugly Bagels is the place to be. For something simple and fresh, we recommend the T.A.B (tomato, avocado, and basil) bagel. Wash it all down with a delicious iced maple. Good coffee + ice + maple syrup = game changer.
Sixes and Sevens Deli, Taranaki Street
Seek out sweet treats and decadent cabinet food at this hidey-hole down Taranaki Street. Decked out in a shabby-chic style you’ll be spoilt for choice with their tasty brunch menu, coffee, slices, salads, sandwiches and mouth-watering speciality doughnuts.
Sweet Mothers Kitchen, Courtenay Place
Travel to New Orleans with the indulgent American-inspired fare at Sweet Mothers Kitchen. Their brunch menu boasts the essential fried chicken and maple syrup waffles, New Orleans-style french toast and a mammoth breakfast burrito.
Egmont Street Eatery, Egmont Street
Hidden down a central laneway you’ll find this flavourful paradise serving breakfast on weekdays and brunch on the weekend. Sweet tooths can take a bite out of the decadent brioche french toast with apple curd and crumble, and egg-lovers opt for the Fontina cheese omelette which just oozes deliciousness.
Newtown
Baobab, Riddiford Street
Loved by Newtown locals, Baobab’s laid-back, bohemian style is not to be missed. With an ever-changing seasonal menu full of fresh feasts, and a well-stocked supply of cabinet food (including an epic caramel slice) you’re spoilt for choice.
Frank’s Coffee & Eats, Riddiford Street
Sporting a clean, minimal aesthetic, wood tones and industrial fittings, Frank’s surely serves up some on-trend looks and on-point breakfasts. Sample something from their curated menu of refined Kiwi classics and pair your meal with a cup of single-origin coffee.
Black Coffee, Riddiford Street
If pinball machines, throwback decor and cheese toasties are your vibe—Black Coffee is where it’s at. Offering a dedicated toasted sandwich menu and extensive coffee list, you won’t want to leave this art gallery meets music store meets coffee shop.
Petone
Comes & Goes, Jackson Street
If you’re one to take photos of your eggs benny and pop them on the ‘gram, then you have got to pay Comes and Goes a visit. Where they really stand out amongst the crowd is with their crazy aesthetically pleasing dishes—think bright colours, beautiful crockery and edible flowers.
Seashore Cabaret, The Esplanade
Seashore Cabaret is an eclectic mix of a bunch of really awesome stuff. Vintage signage, retro furniture, and pinball machines give the space a quirky vibe. Their coffee, made with Good Fortune coffee beans (that are roasted in-house) goes perfectly with a sweet treat from the cabinet, including cakes, doughnuts, pies, and tarts.
Lyall Bay
The Botanist, Onepu Road
Vegans and vegos will feel right at home in this Lyall Bay outfit. Decked out in greenery and boasting beautiful sea views, you’ll chow down on some delicious plant-based eats packed with nutrients and flavour.
Maranui Cafe, Lyall Parade
Maranui is a Wellington institution. Loved for its eclectic interior, classic menu, and its unbeatable views of the beach, it’s a go-to Sunday brunch spot for locals. Their classically Kiwi menu is simple and delicious, just what you need before or after a day at the beach.
Around Wellington
Betsy, Island Bay
The vibe in Betsy is unbeatable—funky, fresh and ever so friendly. Pop in for a lazy weekend breakfast (try the toasted cinnamon brioche with salted caramel butter and lemon vodka marmalade) or if you’re short on time, treat yourself to something to-go from their insane selection of homemade cabinet food.
Scorch-O-Rama, Seatoun
Situated across the road from Wellington’s Scorching Bay beach, Scorch-O-Rama is the perfect beachy cafe. For a big breakfast that will hit the spot and some, you’d be mad to go past the ‘Scorch-O-Rama Lama Ding Dong’. With a name that good, how could you resist?
Mystic Kitchen, Miramar
This cosy out-of-town cafe offers eclectic decor, homely vibes and drool-worthy eats across the board. Opt for a hearty breakfast burrito or homemade bacon and egg muffin, but leave room for their sweet treats—flaky loaded croissants, decadent cakes, home-style pies and some epic scones.
After more legit recs? Check our list of the best cafes in Wellington.
Image credit: Neo Cafe, Fidel's, Neo Cafe, Sixes and Sevens, Egmont Street Eatery, Baobab cafe, Comes & Goes, The Botanist, Betsy.