Wellington, New Zealand, is known for its vibrant food scene. With a fantastic mix of flavors, cultures, and cuisines, the city caters to both the foodie looking for gourmet experiences and the traveler on a budget, like me. When I visited Wellington, I made it my mission to explore as many budget-friendly eateries as possible without compromising on quality. What I discovered was a culinary adventure that didn’t break the bank but left my taste buds more than satisfied. Let me take you through my top affordable food spots in Wellington and why each of them deserves a visit.
1. Rasa – A Taste of Malaysia and South India
Located on the ever-eclectic Cuba Street, Rasa is a tiny gem of a restaurant specializing in Malaysian and South Indian cuisine. Walking in, I was immediately greeted with the fragrant aroma of spices, and the cozy, intimate setting felt like a warm embrace after a long day of exploring.
I ordered their Roti Canai with Chicken Curry, a simple but delicious dish that was bursting with flavor. The roti was light and crispy, perfect for soaking up the rich and aromatic curry. At only NZD 12, this meal was not only budget-friendly but deeply satisfying.
Another standout was their Lamb Masala, tender and slow-cooked in a flavorful blend of spices that transported me straight to the streets of Kuala Lumpur. It’s no wonder Rasa is a local favorite; it offers an authentic dining experience with generous portions that don’t hurt your wallet.
Nearby Attractions:
After your meal, you can explore Cuba Street, one of Wellington’s most iconic streets known for its quirky shops, street performers, and colorful murals. The Cuba Street Bucket Fountain is a must-see, even if you might get splashed a little!
2. Aunty Mena’s Vegetarian Cafe
As a traveler who enjoys exploring vegetarian options, Aunty Mena’s was a delightful surprise. Located just a few steps from Cuba Street, this humble eatery offers a wide array of vegetarian and vegan Asian dishes that are both healthy and affordable.
I tried the Vegetarian Laksa, a large, steaming bowl of spicy coconut broth filled with noodles, tofu, and fresh vegetables. At NZD 14, this dish was incredibly filling and packed with flavor. I could taste the care that went into balancing the spice and creaminess, making every spoonful a comfort.
Their Vegetable Stir Fry Noodles also caught my attention. For NZD 11, the dish was simple yet satisfying, with fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a light, savory sauce. What I loved about Aunty Mena’s was not just the food but the relaxed, homey vibe that made it easy to settle in and enjoy a quiet, affordable meal.
Nearby Attractions:
A quick walk will take you to Wellington’s Waterfront. You can take a stroll along the harbor, visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, or simply enjoy the fresh air while taking in the views of the water.
3. The Dumpling Company
Wellington has its fair share of trendy food trucks, and The Dumpling Company is one that I kept hearing about during my visit. Located at the Wellington Night Market, this food truck serves some of the best dumplings I’ve ever had, and all at a price that made me smile.
I ordered a serving of their Pork and Chive Dumplings, which cost around NZD 8 for six pieces. Each dumpling was handmade, with a perfect ratio of filling to dough, lightly pan-fried to give it a crispy edge. The soy dipping sauce on the side added a nice salty kick, and I found myself going back for a second round!
For a vegetarian option, their Spinach and Feta Dumplings were equally delicious. The combination of the mild feta cheese with the spinach filling created a harmonious balance of flavors that made it hard to choose a favorite.
The Wellington Night Market itself is a must-visit, offering a variety of food from all over the world, but the dumplings from The Dumpling Company are something I’d return for in a heartbeat.
Nearby Attractions:
The Wellington Night Market is on Cuba Street every Friday and Saturday night, so it’s a great spot to grab some food before exploring the city’s nightlife. If you’re a fan of live music and quirky bars, Cuba Street won’t disappoint!
4. Fidel’s Cafe
Fidel’s Cafe is a staple in Wellington’s brunch scene, and as someone who loves a hearty breakfast, I couldn’t resist popping in. Located near Cuba Street, Fidel’s has a relaxed, retro vibe that made me feel right at home. It’s one of those places where you could sit for hours, sipping coffee and people-watching, without feeling rushed.
I ordered the Cuban Burrito for NZD 16, and it was everything I needed to fuel my morning. Filled with scrambled eggs, black beans, cheese, and salsa, it was a fusion of breakfast and lunch, packed with flavor and just the right amount of spice. Their Flat White (NZD 4.50) was one of the best coffees I had during my time in New Zealand, perfectly creamy with a robust espresso base.
Fidel’s is also known for its cakes and pastries, so I indulged in a slice of Banoffee Pie (NZD 7.50). It was rich, creamy, and the perfect way to end my meal.
Nearby Attractions:
From Fidel’s, you’re only a short walk from The National War Memorial and The Basin Reserve, New Zealand’s oldest cricket ground. Both are worth checking out if you’re interested in history or sports.
5. Tommy Millions
No budget food tour of Wellington would be complete without pizza, and Tommy Millions is the go-to place for a quick and affordable slice. With locations in the heart of Wellington, it’s easy to find, and the prices are hard to beat.
I grabbed a couple of slices of their classic Margherita Pizza for NZD 5 each. The thin crust was perfectly crispy, with just the right amount of cheese and tangy tomato sauce. For something a little more indulgent, their Pepperoni Slice (NZD 6) was loaded with toppings and hit the spot after a long day of sightseeing.
Tommy Millions is a great option if you’re in need of a quick, budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice quality. They also offer whole pizzas for around NZD 18-22, which is ideal if you’re traveling with friends and want to share.
Nearby Attractions:
Tommy Millions is just a short walk from Civic Square and the Wellington City Art Gallery, making it the perfect spot for a bite before heading off to explore the city’s arts and culture.
6. The Ramen Shop
For an affordable and filling meal, The Ramen Shop is a top pick. Located in Newtown, just outside the central city, this place serves up steaming bowls of ramen that are perfect for Wellington’s windy weather.
I ordered the Shoyu Ramen (NZD 16), a bowl of soy-based broth filled with tender noodles, pork, bamboo shoots, and a perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg. The broth was flavorful and rich without being overly salty, and the noodles had just the right amount of chew. It was comfort in a bowl.
Their Miso Ramen (NZD 16) is also a winner, especially if you’re after something a bit heartier with a richer broth. The portions are generous, and I left feeling warm and satisfied.
Nearby Attractions:
Newtown is a vibrant suburb, and after your meal at The Ramen Shop, you can wander through Newtown Park, or visit Wellington Zoo, which is just a 10-minute walk away.
Wellington is truly a foodie paradise, and what I love most about the city is how accessible great food is, even if you’re on a budget. From authentic Malaysian curries to delicious dumplings, the city offers a diverse range of flavors that reflect its multicultural heart.
For travelers like me, who are always looking for that perfect balance between affordability and quality, Wellington delivers. Whether you’re craving a quick slice of pizza or a comforting bowl of ramen, there’s something for everyone.
