Two brightly painted, original workers’ cottages – tucked away around the corner from the roar of Cuba Street – house the well-loved Havana. The period surroundings set a stage that is moody and atmospheric in winter, an outdoor sun-trap in summer, but always warm and inviting. It’s tapas all the way here with an ever-changing selection such as cheddar gougeres and sauteed prawns, sweet and crispy pan-roasted snapper with red skinned potatoes or beef short rib with spiced quince and crispy parsnips. A real stand out is a dessert of black liquorice and buttermilk pannacotta, the liquorice flavour surprisingly well complemented by ginger crumble and preserved black doris plums. A reasonable wine list is bolstered by a great choice of Wellington classic craft beer options and a cracking selection of cocktails.

IN BRIEF Well-loved city spot serves tapas with style