Margot

Newtown neighbourhood bar and restaurant Margot is helmed by couple Juno Miers and Tom Adam, whose hospitality experience spans several years and some of Wellington’s most well-known venues – including The Bresolin, Ortega Fish Shack and Mighty Mighty.

Tucked around a corner just off the suburb's main street, it has red and black curved window awnings and an intimate interior that wouldn’t be out of place in a bustling European alleyway.

The feel inside is comfortable and homely, but thoughtfully designed. It’s a cosy venue thanks to its small size, seating 26 in the main restaurant and 16 in the bar next door that they’ve also taken over from Mason (its easy-to-remember name “Next Door” has stayed).

Mason’s brown-leather booth seating, cabinetry, and much of the original fit-out remain, but there’s now added lighting over the bar, which makes for a more consistent ambience; plants; and a mixture of art prints showing al fresco European eateries with views of summery landscapes.

The rustic, European-inspired menu focuses on seasonal sharing plates. There are puffy Comté gougeres and chef Adam’s take on beef tartare, served with caramelised onion parmesan chips. Anchovy fans can order a whole tin of the sweet, fleshy Ortiz brand with Margot’s house-made bread and butter. Raw fish will always be on the menu with differing seasonal accompaniments – for opening week, it was trevally with citrus, rosemary and Aleppo pepper.

The wine list includes both natural and classic wines, with a focus on approachable drops.