Picnic Cafe & Venue

13/09/2026

We take bookings!
04 472 6002
[email protected]

09/09/2026

06/09/2026

It’s getting close - we reopen tomorrow (Monday 7th) at 8:30am. We are just so excited and can’t wait to see you!

02/09/2026

https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/361071736/picnic-cafe-wellington-botanic-garden-reopen-after-spruce

After three months out of service, a pillar of Wellington’s hospitality scene is set to reopen its doors on September 7.

01/09/2026

01/09/2026

☕️ Picnic Café is reopening, and you’re all invited. While the wider Begonia House renovations continue until May 2027, Picnic Café is getting ready to welcome you back on Monday 7 September.

After a major makeover, the café has been transformed, with a new outdoor area, upgraded kitchen, new glazing and a refreshed space to enjoy your coffee and kai.

The renovations have been designed with the future in mind, including flexible spaces for larger groups and events.

And there’s even more reason to celebrate. Today, 1 September, marks 19 years of of the café for owner Paul Lester who opened Picnic on his 35th Birthday. So Happy Birthday Picnic and Happy Birthday Paul. 🥳

When the doors open, you’ll see plenty of familiar faces, with many of the team returning, alongside Dave and Vanessa from Chocolate Fish Café. Some of these faces have gone from visiting as babies with their parent to now working behind the counter.

And don’t worry, your favourites are staying on the menu. That includes smoked salmon and those much-loved cheese scones. 👀

Paul has signed a long-term lease with Council and is already looking ahead, exploring opportunities for evening functions and dinner services from summer 2027/28, once the Begonia House refurbishment is complete.

Interested in booking the café for your next function, send Paul an email on [email protected]

We popped in while the renovations were still underway, so you’ll have to head along next week to see the finished makeover for yourself. 👀☕️

20/05/2026

10/05/2026

That’s us signing off for now! ☕️
From all of us at Picnic Cafe - thank you for your ongoing support, chats, celebrations and just enjoying our food and service!
We”re closing temporarily for renovations and can’t wait to welcome you back on 1 September to a refreshed space!

See you on the other side 💚 house

01/05/2026

🌿 Temporary Closure Notice
Due to refurbishment, Picnic Cafe will be closed from 11 May 2026 (after Mother’s Day) and reopening on 1 September 2026 (all going well!)
Thank you so much for your ongoing support. We can’t wait to welcome you back when we reopen 💚
For any queries, please email [email protected]