Now Open: Rosella Is Mount Victoria's Newest Neighbourhood Wine Bar

Wellington's Mount Victoria has a new neighbour: Rosella, a wine bar and restaurant ready to feed and water locals. Rosella is the newest venture from Wellington culinary couple Johnon MacDonald and Kat Strand, the co-owners of terrific Asian eatery Koji (also in Mount Victoria).

While there are some elements of Koji reflected in the couple's newest restaurant, Rosella focuses on modern dishes to share, served on ceramic plates hand-crafted by local Island Bay potter Nicola Shuttleworth. "We're keeping the relaxed, attentive service of Koji, the good-vibes focused atmosphere, the incredible food offering, and adding tap cocktails," MacDonald says.

MacDonald's menu for Rosella features food from across the globe, with flavours from the Mediterranean, Middle East and North Africa making an appearance. The wine list is just as diverse, championing Kiwi spirits and wines while also focusing on European producers.

While MacDonald is all about the food, Kat Strand is all about Rosella's vibe, creating a relaxed space complete with a tiled bar and textured walls, making sure to incorporate touches of the windy suburb's beauty.

Finally, an upstairs dining space can be booked out for private events — but is also used for last minute walk-ins so if you're in the mood for spontaneity, you've got a shot at nabbing a seat. With that said, the couple encourage Mount Victorians to book their table for afternoon tipples or long lunches in advance, as they tend to book up fast.

Rosella is open every Tuesday–Thursday, 4pm–late, Friday from 3pm–late and Saturday and Sunday from 12pm–late. You can find Rosella at 18 Majoribanks Street, Mount Victoria, Wellington. For bookings, head to their website.