Had the opportunity to visit Rita for dinner for one of my Birthday Bashes. I had never been before, had heard good things and excited to eat there. Rita is a small eatery in Te Aro and changes their menu on a very regular basis depending on “what they can source and what their mood is” (quoting their website). Everyone gets the same dishes, but you can also order a few sides/extras. We decided to go for all the offerings for a table of four,

The evening started off with an Aperitif of a cucumber sandwich with anchovy butter. This was really refreshing with the saltiness from the anchovy butter. Then arrived the two extra slides; Figs + Stracciatella and the Porcini Doughnuts. The doughnuts were super soft and loved the savouriness of them with the white sauce that was on the side. The Figs though were my standout. The crunchiness of the roasted hazelnuts, the figs and the soft cheese underneath was such a lovely designed dished.

  • Evening’s Menu
  • Aperitif
  • Figs + Stracciatella
  • Porcini Doughnuts
  • Raw Albacore Dashi
  • Bean salad & Focaccia
  • Pork Belly, Coriander
  • Blueberry Cheesecake

Next came the items found on the main menu. The Albacore, was s really nice dish with the raw fish, the tomato slices and their tomato juice. Also, this was my first time trying grilled spring onions which added a nice smokey by sweet onion flavour to the dish. The pork belly was really nice, and loved the salsa verde and the thinly sliced fresh chilli. Was interesting to see corn and zucchini at the bottom but complimented each other very nicely. Complimenting the Pork belly was the Green Bean Salad and some Focaccia. Lastly, the Blueberry Cheesecake, which arrived slightly deconstructed with watermelon granita. This was a nice dessert, and the granita was a very interesting approach to add fruit to a cheesecake.

I can see why people rate Rita really highly. The service is on point, it is relaxed, intimate and has really lovely food. Love how they offer sparkling water instead of tap water at no extra cost and their house-made focaccia bread is on point. Bookings are a must but you can call at 5.30 to see if they have an available table on the night. Also, love how their menu is ever evolving and you don’t know what you are going to get until you get there.

Address: 89 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington 6021

Website: Rita