Wellington is surrounded by a wonderful selection of bakeries and patisseries. Whether you’re looking for artisan breads, freshly-made cakes or some sweet indulgences, the New Zealand capital will always satisfy your cravings. To whet your appetite for those handcrafted treats, here are some of the best bakeries in the area.
High tea, baked goods, pies, pizzas and milkshakes: these are just some of the goodies for which Martha’s Pantry is renowned. Locals are drawn by this establishment’s delicate teahouse interiors and beautifully-presented dishes. While it’s not a bakery in the most traditional sense, it’s definitely worth stopping by if you’re craving something fresh out of the oven – as a bonus, they cater to those with gluten and/or dairy intolerance too.
Peter Gray started his baking career at age 16. By the time he was 21 he had opened up his own establishment: the Nada Bakery. Since then, Nada has evolved into an acclaimed Wellington institution, winning several awards and the hearts and minds of locals. Its range of 300 baked goods, made in-house, includes wholegrain loaves, gluten-free treats, New Zealand pies and traditional baking staples.
Pandoro Panetteria is a treasure trove of Italian and New Zealand inspired artisan baking. Since its humble beginnings, more than 20 years ago, the bakery has expanded from a single Auckland location to various establishments countrywide. Their Wellington central quarters is a café and bakery mix – because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a freshly-made treat for breakfast?
Jean Louis Macadre opened up the Bordeaux Bakery more than 20 years ago. A trained boulangier since the age of 14, Macadre’s masterful creations have gained so much traction that his Bordeaux Bakery now has two homes: the flagship shop on Thorndon Quay, and another on The Terrace. Hand-made baguettes, croissants, mille-feuilles and blueberry tarts are among the extensive list of goodies you can get from the Bordeaux Bakery.
While this isn’t a bakery per se, Dixon Street Deli brings Wellingtonians a trove of baked goods from its sister business, Zaida’s. The latter used to be a fully-fledged café and artisan bakery, but decided to close its doors in favour of a home delivery service. Dixon Street Deli itself is a family business that has been around for three generations. Its cabinets are filled with sweet and savoury delicacies, inspired by the owners’ extensive research for the best recipes from Europe and abroad.
Arobake has been in the Wellington baking and patisserie scene since 1989. Their Aro Valley shop boasts a huge selection of fresh bread, cakes and sweet treats – all made daily, on-site. They also serve L’Affare Free Trade Coffee, sandwiches, and rolls. Those wanting to splurge on something special should definitely take a close look at their full-size cake menu.
One of the best places in Wellington to get your sugar fix, Sweet Bakery and Cakery is renowned for its welcoming interiors, scrumptious cupcakes, doughnuts and baked goods. Their flagship store is discreetly tucked away on a side street – but they’ve recently expanded operations to sweeten up the bustling Cuba Street crowds too.
