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Rita is a relatively new addition to Wellington's dining scene, having opened in a historic Aro Valley cottage. The restaurant is owned and operated by Kelda Hains and Paul Schrader, who previously ran Nikau Café. Their vision was to create a space that not only serves exquisite food but also fosters a sense of community.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for intimate gatherings or special celebrations.

The restaurant's commitment to quality and community is evident in every dish they serve.

With a focus on seasonal ingredients, Rita aims to provide a unique dining experience that reflects the flavors of Wellington.

The restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative menu and exceptional service.

Rita is located at 89 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.

The restaurant's cozy setting and attentive staff create an atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy their meals.

Rita's menu changes daily, allowing the chefs to showcase the freshest ingredients available.

This approach not only highlights the culinary creativity of the team but also supports local farmers and suppliers.

Rita's commitment to sustainability and community engagement makes it a standout in Wellington's dining landscape.

The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Rita's dedication to quality and community is reflected in the glowing reviews it has received.

Rita opened in Aro Valley, Wellington in 2023.

Rita received a perfect score from food critic Jesse Mulligan in 2023.

The community of Aro Valley has played a crucial role in shaping Rita's identity.

Local ingredients and flavors are celebrated in the dishes, creating a menu that resonates with the area.

Kelda Hains and Paul Schrader, the founders of Rita, bring years of culinary experience to the table.

Their previous work at Nikau Café has equipped them with the skills and vision necessary to create a unique dining experience.

Rita has adapted to the changing culinary landscape of Wellington, embracing new trends while maintaining its core values.

The restaurant continues to innovate, ensuring that each visit offers something fresh and exciting.

As Rita moves forward, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality, community, and sustainability.

The restaurant continues to be a beloved spot in Wellington, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a taste of the region's best.

Rita invites you to experience its culinary offerings in Aro Valley, Wellington.

Located at 89 Aro Street in the charming Aro Valley of Wellington, New Zealand, Rita offers an intimate dining experience that highlights seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on a daily-changing three-course set menu, this restaurant has garnered praise for its exquisite food and outstanding service. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for special occasions or a quiet evening out.

Intimate dining experience in a historic setting

Seasonal and locally sourced three-course set menu

Highly praised for food quality and service

Limited seating with only two sittings per night

Rita is perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries or intimate dinners, where guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated meal in a cozy setting.

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

The menu changes daily based on seasonal ingredients.

Rita stands out as a delightful dining destination in Wellington, offering a unique blend of quality cuisine and a warm atmosphere. While it may have some limitations, the overall experience is one of intimacy and culinary delight, making it a worthwhile visit for those seeking something special.

Rita - A Culinary Gem in Wellington's Aro Valley.

Nestled at 89 Aro Street, Rita offers a unique dining experience that delights locals and travelers alike. This charming restaurant in Aro Valley, Wellington, is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and innovative cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

What sets Rita apart is its **daily changing menu** that showcases the freshest seasonal and local ingredients. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual dinner, the culinary team crafts each dish with care, accommodating dietary needs upon request. Guests have praised the exquisite flavors and attention to detail, making Rita one of the standout restaurants in New Zealand.

Three-Course Set Menu: Daily specials with seasonal ingredients.

Rita's cozy setting is perfect for intimate dinners, making it a favorite for couples and small groups. With a limited number of tables, the restaurant fosters a welcoming and peaceful ambiance that allows diners to truly enjoy their meals. Guests have noted the thoughtful service and the ambiance that feels both relaxed and sophisticated.

Conveniently located in Aro Valley, Rita is easily accessible and offers paid street parking nearby. Whether you're a local or a visitor exploring Wellington, this culinary gem is a destination to savor delightful dishes and create unforgettable memories.

Wellington

Rita is a small, intimate restaurant in Aro Valley, Wellington, known for its ever-changing three-course set menu that emphasizes seasonal and local ingredients. The dining experience is described as comfortable and comforting, akin to eating at a friend's place. The restaurant operates two staggered sittings each night, with bookings recommended. ([wellingtonnz.com](https://www.wellingtonnz.com/visit/eat-and-drink/rita?utm_source=openai))

Oceania

New Zealand

Located at 89 Aro Street in the charming Aro Valley of Wellington, New Zealand, Rita is a culinary haven that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients through a daily-changing menu. This intimate restaurant, known for its welcoming atmosphere, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a commitment to quality and creativity, Rita offers a unique dining experience that reflects the vibrant culture of Wellington. Established recently, it has garnered rave reviews for its exquisite dishes and attentive service, making it a noteworthy addition to the city's dining scene.

Rita's menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, showcasing the best of local produce. Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Guests can expect to find an array of seasonal offerings that highlight the freshness of New Zealand's ingredients. The restaurant also caters to various dietary needs, making it an inclusive dining destination.

Rita's charm lies in its intimate setting and personalized service. The restaurant's small size fosters a cozy atmosphere, allowing for meaningful interactions between staff and guests. The daily-changing menu not only keeps the dining experience fresh but also showcases the creativity of the culinary team. This commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every dish served.

Situated in Aro Valley, Rita is surrounded by a vibrant community known for its artistic flair and cultural offerings. The neighborhood is home to various galleries, cafes, and parks, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll before or after your meal. Visitors can explore the nearby Wellington Botanic Garden or enjoy the lively atmosphere of Cuba Street, both just a short distance away.

A: Yes, reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

A: Yes, paid street parking is available nearby.

A: Yes, the menu caters to various dietary needs.

Q: Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

A: Rita is open for lunch and dinner, but hours may vary.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURBa0k2TUpBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWfNUNiSwOG0RpGgffuaWC9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURBa0k2TUpBEAE

We came here last night for our 25th wedding anniversary. The food was exquisite, the service is outstanding and some of the best in NZ, and because the restaurant is small, it has a lovely, welcoming atmosphere and doesn't get too noisy. They also catered brilliantly to my dairy allergy and gluten intolerance and this is hands down one of the best meals I've had in a long time.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbXFtbmtBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWfNUNiSwOG0RpGgffuaWC9w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbXFtbmtBRRAB

We were blown away by this place! The menu changes daily, and what they have to work with that day is what they serve. I wish this sort of concept was more common! We loved everything we got to try that evening - and want to call out that I'm not a fish lover but the kahawai was incredible and ended up being my favorite. Amazing experience!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBdC1ETFZREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWfNUNiSwOG0RpGgffuaWC9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBdC1ETFZREAE

This place is such a cute little nook 😙 the entrée was beautifully done, haven’t tasted anything this balanced and fresh before. We were there during Valentine’s Day, so we’ve got a love heart for our dessert, such a cute touch 😊

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbTRXVk1nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWfNUNiSwOG0RpGgffuaWC9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbTRXVk1nEAE

A rather unusual little restaurant with a supposedly daily-changing menu. On the evening I visited, on the menu were mozzarella with broad beans, snapper with chard, lemon tart with rhubarb jam, and a selection of sides ("supplements", served as entrees) like chickpea farinata with artichoke, asparagus tempura, and freekeh salad. The staff were friendly and the service was efficient, but unfortunately the food didn’t live up to expectations. None of the dishes felt particularly unique or inventive. The mozzarella and broad beans lacked texture, the snapper was missing crispy skin, and the farinata resembled more of a pizza than anything else. The lemon tart was overly eggy, and I wasn’t sure where the rhubarb jam went? Overall, a disappointing experience given the potential.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUR3bExlQVZREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWfNUNiSwOG0RpGgffuaWC9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUR3bExlQVZREAE

Nice atmosphere in an intimate setting, although it was much noisier inside than one would think given how small it is.  The staff was nice, and the food was good, but not great. It seemed given the delay at time between courses that they were a bit overwhelmed at times.  And I had said in the reservation that it was my wife’s birthday, which they acknowledged as we were seated, but then never said another thing about it. This was despite the fact that they sang happy birthday to those at another table. We wanted to like this place  more than we actually did.

Exquisite Dining at Rita: Cozy Aro Valley Restaurant, Wellington

Rita is a relatively new addition to Wellington's dining scene, having opened in a historic Aro Valley cottage. The restaurant is owned and operated by Kelda Hains and Paul Schrader, who previously ran Nikau Café. ([wellingtonnz.com](https://www.wellingtonnz.com/visit/eat-and-drink/rita?utm_source=openai))

Rita offers a dynamic three-course set menu that changes daily, focusing on seasonal and local ingredients. The following is a sample of their offerings.

Amuse-Bouche

Asparagus Salad

Rabbit Dumplings

Braised Fennel Bulbs

The Queen of Pudding

Sample Menu at Rita

Sample Menu at Rita in Wellington, New Zealand.

Nestled in the heart of Aro Valley, Rita embraces a vibrant culinary philosophy with a menu that evolves daily, celebrating local and seasonal ingredients. This dynamic dining spot invites food enthusiasts to delight in an exquisite three-course set menu that promises to tantalize the taste buds through thoughtfully curated dishes.

Rita’s starters are crafted to whet your appetite and showcase the freshness of local produce. Begin your culinary adventure with:

For the main course, Rita offers dishes that are not only hearty but also reflect the essence of fresh ingredients combined with innovative techniques. Indulge in:

Complete your dining experience with a delectable dessert that encapsulates the essence of New Zealand flavors. Try the delightful:

Rita complements its extraordinary food with a carefully curated selection of drinks. Pair your meal with a fantastic local wine or a refreshing beverage to elevate your dining experience.

Rita’s menu is not static; it is a canvas that the chefs paint on daily, ensuring *unique offerings* that reflect the day's best ingredients. This ever-evolving menu creates a sense of excitement and anticipation for diners, making each visit a new culinary adventure.

Savor delectable dishes at Rita in Aro Valley, Wellington. Experience New Zealand's culinary delight today! Book your table now!

Experience Culinary Delights at Rita, Wellington

Wellington City Municipality

Rita

A daily changing menu featuring seasonal and local ingredients, with options for dietary accommodations upon request.

Three-Course Set Menu

Wellington Region

Discover Rita in Wellington's Aro Valley offering seasonal set menus, exquisite local ingredients, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for special occasions.

Rita Wellington - Intimate Aro Valley Dining Experience

Experience Wellington's Rita with its changing daily menu, focusing on seasonal and local ingredients, in a historic cottage setting with exceptional service.

Explore Wellington's Rita - Unique Culinary Journey

Rita in Wellington's Aro Valley offers a unique dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients, intimate atmosphere, and highly praised cuisine.

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