LOCATIONRight in the heart of Wellington’s dining precinct on Cuba Street.
DETAILSMatterhorn is known as that Wellington institution nestled among fellow buzzing night spots on Cuba Street. Behind an inconspicuous sign and down a narrow, dark alley this always-open diner can be found – the venue is open throughout the day for coffee, lunch and dinner, and is known to host regular live music events.
The current owners make subtle nods at Matterhorn’s retro roots. A framed photographic poster of the restaurant’s namesake, iconic Swiss mountain is a focal point in the modernist dining room, while waiters don deep green, front-pocketed shirts that recall alpine army uniforms.
FOOD & BEVERAGEThe food at Matterhorn has been transformed from retro fondue pots and stroganoff to decidedly more modern European fare. Meals are inspired by classic techniques and local ingredients to create unique flavour combinations, such as in the main course dish of twice baked gorgonzola soufflé with caramelised witloof, radicchio, fresh pear, sugared walnuts and apple vinaigrette. Matterhorn’s cocktails deserve equal attention, as patrons flock to the bar for mixed drinks defined by ‘Classic’, ‘Short and Boozy’ and ‘Long and Easy’ categories – just last year, bartender Claire Harlick one second place in the Havana Club International Cocktail Grand Prix competition.