Kisa

Looking for a place where Eastern traditions meet island hospitality? Kisa is a popular restaurant in the heart of Wellington, specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine with a vibrant Turkish accent. This establishment has become a landmark for foodies, offering a unique blend of authentic spices and the fresh ingredients that New Zealand is proud of.

Kisa. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

One of the restaurant's main features is the use of a Josper Mangal — a special charcoal grill that is currently the only one in the country. It is thanks to this grill that the meat and seafood dishes acquire that unmistakable smoky flavor. The interior of Kisa is designed in a cozy style with elements of Lebanese decor, creating the perfect space for shared meals and warm gatherings.

The restaurant seats up to 90 guests and offers a menu focused on sharing plates, allowing you to try several types of mezze, house-made dips, and aromatic kebabs at once. Whether it's a family dinner or a business lunch, Kisa promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience in the heart of the New Zealand capital.

For table reservations or further details, you can use the official contact information. Please note that the restaurant is very popular in the evenings, so it is best to book a table in advance.

At Kisa, guests can expect an exciting tasting process based on the principle of "sharing food." Be sure to start with the mezze: order the smooth hummus with red zhug, muhammara made from roasted peppers with walnuts, and crispy mozzarella boreks. Don't forget to try the freshly baked pita, served straight from the oven — it’s perfect for scooping up the flavorful dips.

For those who love more substantial dishes, the restaurant offers charcoal-grilled masterpieces. Try the Urfa lamb kebab or the tender baked fish. If you prefer plant-based food, look out for the imam bayildi — stuffed eggplant with a rich flavor. For dessert, save room for the lakta with date jam, which makes for a wonderful conclusion to the meal.

Additionally, you can enjoy a carefully curated drinks list. Order wines from the famous Martinborough region or try craft beers from local Wellington breweries. The relaxed atmosphere, professional service, and the chance to watch the open kitchen in action make every visit to Kisa a special occasion.

The restaurant Kisa is located at 195 Cuba Street, in the heart of one of the capital's most vibrant and colorful districts. If you are staying in the central city area, the walk to the restaurant will take no more than 10–15 minutes. Cuba Street is partially pedestrianized, making the walk to the restaurant pleasant and scenic.

Public transport users can take advantage of the Metro city bus network. The nearest stops, such as Courtenay Place or Vivian Street, are just a 5-minute walk away. Those arriving from Wellington Airport can take a taxi or Uber — the trip will take about 25–30 minutes and cost approximately 50 NZD.

For drivers, street parking is available in the Te Aro area, though it can be difficult to find a free spot in the evenings. Bicycle and e-scooter racks are also available nearby, which are very popular in this part of the city.

The story of Kisa's appearance on the capital's culinary map is quite unusual. It originally started as a temporary "pop-up" project created by restaurateur Dean White specifically for the Visa Wellington On a Plate food festival. Its incredible success with the public and rave reviews from critics led to the concept evolving into a full-fledged permanent restaurant.

The establishment opened in its permanent home on Cuba Street, maintaining its focus on Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine while adapting it to exceptional New Zealand produce. Led by Chef Johnny, the team created a unique space where tradition meets modern urban aesthetics.

The interior design deserves special attention: the use of warm earthy tones reminiscent of Lebanese landscapes and an open kitchen with a central grill create an atmosphere of comfort and authenticity. Since its official opening in 2022, the restaurant has quickly become a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience the modern food culture of the capital.

For a full introduction to the menu and a relaxed time at Kisa, we recommend allowing 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy a series of mezze appetizers, a main course from the grill, and a dessert without feeling rushed.

If you are stopping by for a light lunch or a quick bite during the workday, a visit may take about one hour. The restaurant's atmosphere encourages long conversations, so many guests prefer to stay longer, enjoying signature cocktails and the unique setting.

Kisa restaurant is open daily, offering guests various dining options — from late lunches to cozy dinners. From Monday to Tuesday, the establishment is open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Mid-week, from Wednesday to Thursday, the doors open earlier — from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the restaurant is open until 10:30 PM, and on Sunday it welcomes guests from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

Since the schedule may change depending on the season or public holidays, we recommend checking the current opening hours on the official website before planning your visit.

A visit to Kisa can be perfectly combined with a stroll through some of the capital's most interesting spots. The Te Aro district is famous for its architecture, street art, and cozy parks, which are literally just steps away from the restaurant.