1. Prefab

The queues may get long, but the wait is worth it. Highly regarded as one of the best places in Wellington, Prefab offers top coffee and excellent, modern cuisine in record time. Excellent service and staff always look like they are having a ball. Don't forget your docket when you get up to pay. Also a great place to get Acme Coffee products, doughnuts and spot the odd pop up event in the secret back hall. No bookings taken, and often a bit of a line out the door, but you will be brought a mini hot chocolate if you are patient. Find out more on their website: http://www.pre-fab.co.nz/

2. Mojo Poneke

Unlike other Mojo's, the Poneke Mojo serves restaurant quality food with a fresh, seafood flavoured twist. Must be Martin Bosley's helping hand in the kitchen. Personal favourites are whipped mascarpone, stewed figs and granola as well as their great range of healthy salads. If you are in the mood for a treat, have a yummy french pastry, made by their actual french pastry chef. Oh la la! Add beautiful views over the harbour and service for dogs to the list and we have a winner. The website for mojo is www.mojocoffee.co.nz.

3. Nikau

Just say Kegeree and any Wellingtonian will reply "Nikau". Located right next to City Gallery, Nikau, it is fair to say, is a Wellington institution. Besides their most famous dish, Nikau specialise in delicious soups and sweet pastry's. Very good service, plus excellent coffee, is made even more comfortable by the outdoor area.  Nab a spot in the sun and curl up with an edition of the New York Review of Books. Check out their website www.nikaucafe.co.nz.

4. Floriditas

The older sister to Loretta, at Floriditas you will find the best avocado on on toast, and the freshest seasonal produce around. Feel like you are in a Parisian cafe, as you are attended to by some of Wellington's best wait staff. I love their fries as well, and they let you get a half bowl if you just can't bring yourself to eat a whole one. Make sure you try their pasta's and risotto's! No bookings taken, so get in early. Check her out on the website www.floriditas.co.nz.

5. Loretta

Its a 1970's San Fransisco vibe - and Loretta delivers with delicious flair. Vegetarians need not fret, because Loretta dolls out the quinoa salads, cauliflower steaks and green juice, all with a zesty twist. Really dependable service, and lots of good corners you can tuck yourself away in. Come here for a dinner with your oldest girlfriend, and enjoy the feeling of the old arcade and open kitchen. Excellent pizzas too. Check out the website www.loretta.net.nz. 

Images and words by Lucy from The Residents Blog.