Damascus
Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at a Wellington favorite! Rated 4.7 stars, enjoy delicious food, cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere at Damascus. Make a reservation today!
About Damascus
A culinary gem nestled in Te Aro, Wellington, this eatery offers a delightful journey into Middle Eastern flavors. With a stellar 4.7-star rating, it's a proven favorite among locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is lively, with the option for outdoor seating and expertly crafted cocktails. Perfect for group gatherings, this spot also offers convenient reservations. Diners rave about the generous portions and affordable prices, though some find the portion sizes inconsistent. Many highlight the exceptional service and complimentary treats, creating a memorable dining experience. A great place to enjoy quality food and a welcoming ambiance.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Why Travelers Love Damascus
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Had great food here! I usually eat a lot, but with only two dishes I got really full. The service was great and the French guy in the bar was very nice to me. Even got a free dessert. Highly recommend! Affordable prices too! Decent food. Personal preference - I found the large plates food size not filling enough to be a main dish. Not a value for money. The chicken dish I ordered was good, but it was a bit dry inside at few bites. And the tiny portion of sauce you can see in the picture wasn’t enough to balance the dry chicken, salad and tortilla. My friend liked their fish dish. We both liked the dessert Balourieh - a sweet pistachio treat. Although the restaurant wasn’t fully booked, they made everybody occupy table next to each other. From the picture you can see the placement of the tables are very close to each other. Understand that the restaurant wants to make the most of the space. But if it isn’t fully booked, it’s nice to let the customers sit alternate table while not being felt so cozy to unknown people. Was told to come and expect great food, was rewarded with perfection. Flavours and textures will astound you. Both the chicken and lamb we ordered were seasoned well and seared superbly while maintaining juiciness. The vegetarian options were fresh and crisp, mixed with fried pita for crunchiness. Dessert was heavenly with the semolina cake moist with a nice brittle top. The Damascus tea and Arabic coffee rounded up a very enjoyable lunch. The environment while small, is cosy, and the service is top notch. Will definitely visit again.
Find the Restaurant
Where to Find Them
Opening Hours
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Recent Reviews
Simon G.
August 17, 2025
Had great food here! I usually eat a lot, but with only two dishes I got really full. The service was great and the French guy in the bar was very nice to me. Even got a free dessert. Highly recommend! Affordable prices too!
balaji R.
August 9, 2025
Decent food. Personal preference - I found the large plates food size not filling enough to be a main dish. Not a value for money. The chicken dish I ordered was good, but it was a bit dry inside at few bites. And the tiny portion of sauce you can see in the picture wasn’t enough to balance the dry chicken, salad and tortilla. My friend liked their fish dish. We both liked the dessert Balourieh - a sweet pistachio treat. Although the restaurant wasn’t fully booked, they made everybody occupy table next to each other. From the picture you can see the placement of the tables are very close to each other. Understand that the restaurant wants to make the most of the space. But if it isn’t fully booked, it’s nice to let the customers sit alternate table while not being felt so cozy to unknown people.
Roy C.
March 2, 2025
Was told to come and expect great food, was rewarded with perfection. Flavours and textures will astound you. Both the chicken and lamb we ordered were seasoned well and seared superbly while maintaining juiciness. The vegetarian options were fresh and crisp, mixed with fried pita for crunchiness. Dessert was heavenly with the semolina cake moist with a nice brittle top. The Damascus tea and Arabic coffee rounded up a very enjoyable lunch. The environment while small, is cosy, and the service is top notch. Will definitely visit again.
Leigh J.
October 6, 2025
Fabulous tasty food and plenty of it. 5 people and we shared all the food and it was great. Served on lovely plates and looked and tasted amazing. The staff did a great job of explaining the menu to us and what each dish came with and entailed. We had to attend an event and the food came in great time. The cocktails were also great and the wine list was good. only issue was they didn't sell bubbles by the glass so we just had to buy a bottle and that was superb. We didn't have room for any dessert which was a shame as they sounded amazing. we will be back
Margaret M.
September 12, 2025
Food is fabulous, for carnivores and vegans!!! And excellent value for money. But it is too cold - sit as far inside as you can. I'll be back in summer.
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Damascus special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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Transportation Tips
Walking is perfect for the compact city center. Public transport is good, and organized tours include transportation.
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