About
1154 Pastaria on Cuba Street has become one of Wellington's most reliable destinations for genuinely good Italian pasta. What sets it apart isn't fussy pretension—it's the focus on making fresh, well-balanced dishes with quality ingredients in a stripped-back setting. You'll find classic shapes done right: proper carbonara, bolognese that tastes like someone's nonna made it, and seasonal specials that change with what's available. The wine list leans Italian and won't break the bank, and the team clearly knows what they're talking about. For a mid-sized city, having a pasta restaurant that this consistent is worth the repeat visits Wellington locals give it.
Expect a casual, lively atmosphere—it's not fine dining, but it's purposeful and unpretentious. Tables are close together, so it's buzzy rather than intimate; good for couples and groups, less ideal if you need quiet conversation. Service is friendly and efficient without being intrusive. Most meals take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Come hungry; portions are generous. It gets busy Thursday to Saturday, so book ahead or arrive early. The space itself is simple—exposed brick, good lighting, the kind of place that lets the food do the talking. No frills, no Instagram theatre, just solid cooking.
On Cuba Street in Te Aro, 1154 Pastaria sits in Wellington's most walkable dining and cultural strip. It's a five-minute walk from the City Gallery and sits among independent cafés, bars, and boutiques that make Te Aro worth an evening. It's ideal for dinner before a show at Circa or a drink afterward. Year-round it's equally good; there's no seasonal dip in quality. If you're exploring Wellington's food scene beyond the usual suspects, this is a natural stop—proper Italian without the pretence.
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share your visit.