Three weeks in New Zealand - 4/12 - 5/4/2024

Day 10-Dinner at Ortega, fish shack, Wellington- 4/20/2024

Ortega Fish Shack is not a shack but rather a stylish and cosmopolitan restaurant in downtown Wellington, offering upscale and creative fish dishes as well as steaks in a relaxed and bustling atmosphere. I found the restaurant in the 50 best Discovery described as a local institution perfect for any occasion, and known for its fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. 

The two-story building, built in 1886 is decorated like beachside bistro with weatherboard shutters, mosaic-tiled floors, walls covered with nautical paraphernalia and mounted fish.

Beautiful bar with comfy stools.

We got there early so there are not a lot of people yet but it will be full later on.

The menu focuses on seafood but there are also other options.

Lots of pictures of boats, and nautical themes that are hanged.

The main dining room has only limited space but it has a really cozy atmosphere.

15 minutes later, the bar is filled up with customers.

Cheers!

Te Kouma Pacific oyster served natural with champagne vinegar

We started our meal on Te Kouma oysters.  Fresh and seriously tasty, the oysters were paired with shallot mignonette.  So tasty!

Smoke Warehou rillettes, pickled radish served with sourdough crostini

Smoky Warehou rillettes paired with pickled radish and crostini. I never heard of Warehou before so apparently it is a fish found primarily in the waters around New Zealand and Australia. They belong to the family Merlucciidae and are known for their firm, white flesh.

Yellowtail Kingfish ceviche, avocado, lemongrass, Vietnamese mint , crayfish oil

I love this dish, really tasty and beautifully presented.

a

The fish was so fresh and the ceviche was spectacular.  We really enjoyed this dish.

Our starters.

Brined & seared octopus, cabbage, almond cream, crispy rice, Black bean dressing.

.

Excellent dish, very tasty.

Back to Basic so Hoa ordered a Steak, cafe de Paris butter, and crispy French frites.  As good as expected.

Catalan crepes with orange caramel sauce served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

A digestif after our meal. Cheers to very good meal.  Great and attentive service.

NEXT... Breakfast, Downtown Wellington