The Botanist

restaurant — Lyall Bay · Wellington

About The Botanist

The Botanist Lyall Bay is a vibrant plant-based restaurant and bar nestled on the scenic south coast of Wellington, offering breathtaking sea views. Dedicated to 'flavour-first' cuisine, they champion seasonal produce and local ingredients, bringing fresh, garden-inspired dishes to your table. The menu draws inspiration from the diverse coastlines and cultures of the Pacific Rim, celebrating native ingredients and bold flavours across its brunch, dinner, and snack offerings.

Guests can relax in their inviting heated courtyard, choosing from a selection of six rotating craft beer taps, unique botanical cocktails, and local and organic wines. The Botanist is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. They also cater to families with 'Kids Eat Free' on Wednesdays and offer a popular 'Burger & a Beverage' deal on Thursdays.

For added convenience, The Botanist provides online ordering for pick-up via Click & Collect, and delivery through Uber Eats and DoorDash. Gift vouchers are also available for purchase online, making it easy to share the plant-powered experience with others.

The Botanist Lyall Bay: Wellington's Plant-Powered Oasis with Pacific Rim Flavours

Nestled on the scenic south coast of Lyall Bay, The Botanist offers a unique culinary haven in Wellington. This plant-based restaurant and bar has carved a niche for itself by delivering 'flavour-first' cuisine that's both innovative and deeply rooted in fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. With stunning sea views as its backdrop, The Botanist provides an inviting escape where culinary artistry meets a relaxed, warm atmosphere.

The core philosophy at The Botanist revolves around celebrating the bounty of the earth. Their menu is a vibrant tapestry woven with inspirations from the coastlines and diverse cultures of the Pacific Rim. This influence is evident in every dish, from the tantalising brunch options to the sophisticated dinner plates, each crafted to highlight native ingredients and bold, memorable flavours. The commitment to a 100% plant-based offering ensures that every diner, regardless of dietary preference, can explore a world of delicious possibilities without compromise.

A Culinary Journey for Every Palate

Starting the day at The Botanist is a treat, especially during their weekend brunch service from 9 am to 3 pm. Diners can indulge in hearty options like the "Big Lyall," a comprehensive plant-based breakfast featuring poached eggs, plant-based sausage, and battered jalapeños, or the "Veganise Me," which offers scrambled tofu alongside smashed avocado and hash browns. For those with a sweet tooth, the "Ube Pancakes," served with coconut caramel and toasted coconut or mandarin and mascarpone, are a must-try. Even savoury classics get a unique twist, such as the "Korean Scramble" with gochujang scrambled eggs and kimchi.

As the day progresses, The Botanist transitions into a dinner spot, with a menu available from 5 pm to 9 pm that continues its Pacific Rim exploration. Sharing plates like the "Sushi Boards" or the crispy "Bang Bang Cauli" make for excellent starters. Larger plates beckon with creativity, including the "Miso Eggplant" featuring charred miso eggplant with whipped manuka smoked tofu, or the "Pancit Noodles," a spicy Filipino dish with sriracha hoisin tofu. The burger selection, available throughout the day, boasts favourites like the "K-Pop," showcasing tempura shiitake mushroom with a spicy bulgogi glaze, and the "Honolulu," a sticky huli huli chicken burger, all served with furikake salted fries.

More Than Just Food: The Botanist Experience

The Botanist is not just about exceptional food; it’s about the entire experience. The restaurant features a welcoming heated courtyard, perfect for enjoying the Lyall Bay breeze while staying comfortable. The bar is a destination in itself, boasting six rotating craft beer taps that showcase local brews, alongside a curated selection of botanical cocktails and organic and local wines. This focus on quality beverages complements the food menu, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.

The commitment to a vibrant community atmosphere is evident through their weekly specials. Wednesdays are family-friendly with 'Kids Eat Free' – a complimentary children's meal with any main purchased. Thursdays offer a fantastic 'Burger & a Beverage' deal, allowing guests to enjoy any burger with fries and a house beer, wine, or juice for a special price. These initiatives make The Botanist an accessible and appealing choice for regulars and newcomers alike.

Accessibility and convenience are also key. The Botanist offers easy online ordering for pick-up via their Click & Collect service, and for those who prefer dining at home, delivery is available through Uber Eats and DoorDash. For a thoughtful gift, online vouchers can be purchased. Whether you're seeking a casual brunch, a lively dinner, or simply a relaxed spot for drinks with a view, The Botanist Lyall Bay consistently delivers an unforgettable plant-based journey.

Signature items

  • Veganise Me
  • Ube Pancakes
  • K-Pop Burger
  • Poke Bowl
  • Miso Eggplant
  • Bang Bang Cauli

Menu

Coffee

  • Short Black
  • Long Black
  • Americano
  • Picccolo
  • Macchhiattoo
  • Flat White
  • Lattee
  • Cappuccinno
  • Moccha Reg — Regular or Large.
  • Hoott Chhocolatee — Regular or Large.
  • Iceed Cooffffeee / Chhocolatee
  • Chai Latte
  • Matcchaa Lattee
  • Turrmeericc Lattee
  • Flufffy

Matcha

  • Strawberry Matcha — Choice of hot or iced, choice of milk.
  • Dark Chocolate Matcha — Choice of hot or iced, choice of milk.
  • Earl Grey Matcha — Choice of hot or iced, choice of milk.

Nigiri

  • Tonkatsu kumara, chilli crisp
  • Sriracha tofu, kawakawa oil, micro coriander
  • Miso glazed eggplant, chilli crisp

Desserts

  • Mango Arancini — Sticky mango rice balls, coconut caramel.
  • Cheesecake — Black sesame cheesecake, mandarin, mandarin syrup.
  • Nama Truffles — Japanese whisky chocolate truffles, Duck Island ice cream & yuzu syrup.

Leaf Tea

  • Gunnpowdeerr Greeenn
  • Peeppermmintt
  • Sttrrawwbeerryy Kiwii
  • Laavenddaarr & Chhammomilllee
  • Beerrylllicciioouss
  • Eaarrl Greeyy
  • Enngliisshh Breeakkfaastt

Red Wine

  • Mestaa Tempranillo, Spain — Vegan, organic.
  • Quartz Reef 'Loop Rd' Pinot Noir, Central Otago — Vegan.
  • Brookfields Ohiti Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Hawke's Bay — Vegan.
  • Little X Syrah, Hawkes Bay — Vegan.
  • Decibel Gimblett Gravels Malbecc, Hawke's Bay — Vegan.
  • Paritua Stone Padddock Merlot, Hawke's Bay — Vegan.

Cocktails

  • The Wellliinggtinii — Vodka, apple liqueur, lime juice.
  • Avviiaattiioonn — Gin, maraschino liqueur, créme de violette, lemon juice, maraschino cherry.
  • Pllaanntteeurr — Dark rum, white rum, vanilla extract, pineapple juice, coconut milk.
  • Spiicy Maarrggaariittaa — Tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, simple syrup, jalapeño, spicy salt rim.
  • Liiqquuiidd Brrownniiee — Vodka, Cacao liqueur, espresso, chocolate sauce, coconut milk.
  • Rumm & Duummbeerr — Mojito with rum, golden kiwifruit syrup, lime juice, simple syrup, soda & fresh mint.
  • Cheeekky Beerry — Vodka, strawberry liqueur, strawberry purée, basil syrup, lemon juice, soda.
  • Paallommaa — Tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, soda, simple syrup, spiced salt rim.
  • Classic Cocktails — They make classic cocktails too – ask your server for your favourite.

Mocktails

  • Haappppy Kiwii Moojjiittoo — Golden kiwifruit syrup, lime juice, simple syrup, soda, fresh mint.
  • Niiññaa Paallommaa — Lime juice, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, lemonade.
  • Suunnriissee — Pineapple juice, vanilla extract, coconut milk.

Maki Rolls

  • Sushi of the day
  • Teriyaki banana blossom, pickled red onion
  • Avocado, charred pineapple, cream cheese

Rosé Wine

  • Durvillea Rosé, Marlborough — Vegan.
  • Escarpment Pinot Noir Rosé, Martinborough — Vegan.

White Wine

  • Swiftsure by Man O War Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough — Vegan.
  • Astrolabe Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough — Vegan.
  • Greenhough Roadblock Chardonnay, Nelson — Vegan.
  • Tony Bish Fat & Sassy Chardonnay, Hawkes Bay — Vegan.
  • Mahi Pinot Gris, Marlborough — Vegan.
  • Amisfield Dry Riesling, Central Otago — Vegan, organic.

Beer (Cans)

  • Croucher Lowrider Session IPA, Rotorua — 330ml can, 2.5%.
  • Double Vision Red Rascall Red Ale, Wellington — 330ml can, 6.3%.
  • Duncan's Yumm Yumm Yuzuu Lager, Wellington — 330ml can, 4.7%.
  • Emerson's Boookbinder Bitter English Ale, Dunedin — 330ml can, 3.7%.
  • Garage Project Beeer Lager, Wellington — 330ml can, 5.8%.
  • Garage Project Tinny Hazy IPA, Wellington — 330ml can, 0%.
  • Kereru Auro Gluten-free Golden Ale, Wellington — 330ml can, 5%.
  • Panhead Black Topp Oat Stout Stout, Wellington — 330ml, 5.5%.
  • Panhead Supercharrger APA, Wellington — 330ml, 5.8%.
  • Parrotdog Bitterbiitch IPA, Wellington — 330ml, 5.8%.
  • Parrotdog Fallconn APA, Wellington — 330ml can, 5.4%.
  • Sawmilll Pillsner Pilsner, Auckland — 330ml, 4.8%.
  • Sawmilll Baaree Beeer Pale Ale Auckland — 330ml, 0%.
  • Boneffaace Thee Unitt Hazy Hazy Pale Ale, Wellington — 330ml, 6%.
  • Three Booys Wheaat Belgian-style wheat, Christchurch — 330ml can, 5%.
  • Zefffer Ciderr — Ask staff for this week's flavour.

Brunch Mains

  • Pancakes — Poached, scrambled or fried eggs on ciabatta or grain. Add hollandaise or vegan hollandaise.
  • Ube Pancakes — Choose from: Banana, coconut caramel, toasted coconut; or Mandarin, mascarpone, mandarin syrup.
  • Breakfast Bao — Steamed bao, halloumi, chilli crisp, fried egg, pickled daikon, hollandaise. Double bao option available.
  • Korean Scramble — Gochujang scrambled eggs, kimchi, chilli crisp, sriracha, toasted ciabatta. Option to swap eggs for scrambled tofu.
  • Bot Benedict — Potato herb rosti, poached eggs, wilted spinach, mushroom, hollandaise, micro greens. Option to swap eggs for crispy sriracha tofu.
  • Kimchi Fritters — Kimchi & corn fritters, poached eggs, smashed edamame avocado, chilli crisp, hollandaise.
  • Big Lyall — Poached eggs, hash brown, mushroom, wilted greens, plant based sausage, battered jalapeños, hollandaise & toasted ciabatta.
  • Veganise Me — Scrambled tofu, smashed avocado edamame, wilted greens, hash brown, battered jalapeños, vegan hollandaise & toasted grain.

Brunch Sides

  • Eggs as you like (2)
  • Scrambled tofu
  • Mushroom
  • Plant sausage (1)
  • Crispy pancit tofu
  • Ciabatta (2)
  • Wilted spinach
  • Halloumi
  • Gluten free bread (1)
  • Avocado
  • Hash browns (2)

Brunch Burgers

  • Honolulu Dirtyburger II — Sticky huli huli chicken, cheese, charred pineapple, pickled red onion, Asian slaw, mango mayo. Served with furikake salted fries.
  • K-Pop — Plant based beef patty, satay sauce, pickle, jalapeño, caramelised onion, dirty sauce. Served with furikake salted fries.
  • Tempura Mushroom — Spicy bulgogi glaze, pickled red onion, pickled daikon, Asian slaw, mayo. Served with furikake salted fries.

Coffee Add-Ons

  • Hazelnuutt / Saallteedd Caarameell / Vannillaa shoot
  • Milk options — Blue Milk, Trim Milk, Soy Milk, Oat Milk, Coconut Milk.

Sides (Dinner)

  • Asian Slaw — Savoy cabbage, carrot, crushed peanuts, coriander, citrus dressing.
  • Side Salad — Herb, pickled red onion & coconut salad.
  • Sticky Rice

Sparkling Wine

  • No 1. Family Estate Assemble Cuvée — Vegan.
  • Alpha Domus 'Beatrix' Sparkling Rosé, Hawke's Bay — Vegan, organic.
  • Laurent Perrier Cuvée Brut NV, Champagne, France — Vegan.

Cocktail Caraffes

  • Saannggrriiaa — Red wine, triple sec, orange juice, lemonade, fresh fruit.
  • Wwhhiittee Saannggrriiaa — White wine, triple sec, apple juice, ginger ale, fresh fruit.

Housemade Iced Tea

  • Flavours change weekly

Dinner & Snack Burgers

  • Honolulu — Sticky huli huli chicken, cheese, charred pineapple, pickled red onion, Asian slaw, mango tamarind mayo, with furikake salted fries.
  • Dirtyburger II — Plant based beef patty, satay sauce, pickle, caramelised onion, jalapeño, dirty burger sauce, with furikake salted fries.
  • K-Pop — Tempura shiitake mushroom, spicy bulgogi glaze, pickled red onion, pickled daikon, Asian slaw, mayo, with furikake salted fries.

Larger Plates (Dinner)

  • Chicken Katsu — Crumbed plant based chicken, Japanese curry sauce, sticky rice, pickled red onion, fried shallots, micro cress.
  • Miso Eggplant — Charred miso eggplant, whipped manuka smoked tofu, pickled daikon, kawakawa oil, micro salad.
  • Pancit Noodles — Filipino spicy pancit sauce, sriracha hoisin tofu, rice noodles, savoy cabbage, edamame, bean sprouts, spring onion.
  • Charred Cauli — Horopito orange cauliflower, black sesame cream, Vietnamese herb, pickled red onion & toasted coconut salad.
  • Banana Blossom Salad — Banana blossom, charred pineapple, crushed peanuts, pickled daikon & carrot, red chilli, spring onion, bean sprouts, Vietnamese mint, coriander, pineapple-chilli dressing.
  • Poke Bowl — Pancit tofu, edamame, tempura oyster mushroom, kimchi, tonkatsu kumara, pickled daikon & carrot, sticky rice, yuzu ponzu dressing.

Sharing Plates (Brunch)

  • Charred Edamame — Yuzu ponzu sauce.
  • Katsu Fries — Katsu gravy, fried shallots, furikake salted fries.
  • Bang Bang Cauli — Battered cauliflower, bang bang sauce, mango tamarind mayo.
  • Chia Bowl — Chia overnight oats, mango compote, toasted coconut, ube coconut yoghurt.
  • Fries — with mango tamarind mayo.
  • Tofu Bao — Steamed bao, sriracha tofu, slaw, pickled red onion, vegan hollandaise. Double bao option available. Add fries.

Juice / Kombuchha / Soodaa

  • Gooddbuzzz Kommbucchaa — Pineapple & Mango / Blueberry & Peach.
  • Clovveerr Feerrmenntss — Turmeric Spritz & Ginger Kvass / Beet Kvass Spritz.
  • Symmbiioottaa Soodaa Pree++Prroobiiootticc Keefirrr Soodaa — Raspberry & Mint / Watermelon.
  • Hoomeggrrownn Frresshh Juuiicceess — Orange / Apple / Cranberry / Pineapple.
  • Allmighhty Orgaanicc Juuiicceess — Carrot, orange & turmeric / Guava, lime & apple / Orange, apple & mango.
  • Chhiaa Siisterr'ss Immmuniitty Beerry Smmooothhiee — Boysenberry, strawberry & banana.
  • Chhiaa Siisterr'ss Trooppciiaall Smmooothhiee — Oranges, mango, passionfruit & banana.
  • Lemonnadee / Giinggeerr Allee / Colaa / Tonnice
  • Haarddiiee Booys Giinggeerr Beeerr

Plant Powered Mains (Brunch)

  • Edamame Avo Toast — Edamame & avocado smash, smoked feta, pickled daikon, chilli crisp & kawakawa oil on toasted ciabatta. Add poached eggs / halloumi.
  • Poke Bowl — Pancit tofu, edamame, tempura mushroom, kimchi, tonkatsu kumara, pickled daikon & carrot, sticky rice, yuzu ponzu dressing.
  • Banana Blossom Salad — Banana blossom, charred pineapple, crushed peanuts, pickled daikon & carrot, bean sprouts, red chilli, spring onion, Vietnamese mint, coriander, pineapple-chilli dressing.

Sharing Plates (Dinner & Snack)

  • Sushi Boards — House selection of hand rolled maki & nigiri. Served with yuzu ponzu, mango mayo, pickled ginger, wasabi. Available for two or four people.
  • Lotus Chips — Lotus root chips, mango mayo, furikake salt.
  • Charred Edamame — Yuzu ponzu sauce.
  • Katsu Fries — Furikake salted fries, katsu gravy, fried shallots.
  • Bao Bun — Steamed bao, pancit tofu, slaw, pickled daikon, satay sauce, chilli crisp.
  • Mochi — Kumara Korean gnocchi balls, fermented chilli butter sauce.
  • Kimchi Arancini — Crumbed kimchi smoked feta rice balls, mango tamarind mayo, micros.
  • Satay Skewers — Yuba tofu, house satay sauce, chilli crisp.
  • Bang Bang Cauli — Battered cauliflower, bang bang sauce, mango mayo.
  • Fries — with mango tamarind mayo.

Frequently asked questions

Is The Botanist entirely plant-based?
Yes, The Botanist proudly offers a 100% plant-based menu, ensuring a delicious culinary experience for everyone.
Do they cater to dietary requirements like gluten-free or nut allergies?
The menu is nut-free. Gluten-free options are available on request, with an additional charge for gluten-free bread/buns.
Can I make a reservation at The Botanist?
Yes, bookings are recommended, especially for weekend brunch, and can be made via the link on their website or by email.
Does The Botanist offer takeaway or delivery?
Yes, you can order online for pick-up through their Click & Collect service, or opt for delivery via Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Are there any special deals or promotions?
Yes, The Botanist has 'Kids Eat Free Wednesday's' (a free children's meal with any main purchased) and a 'Thursday Burger & a Beverage' deal for $20 (any house beer, wine, or juice plus any burger with fries).
What kind of drinks are available?
The Botanist offers a wide selection including six rotating craft beer taps, botanical cocktails, local and organic wines, as well as various coffees, teas, juices, kombucha, and sodas.
Is there outdoor seating available?
Yes, The Botanist features a heated courtyard for guests to enjoy.

Tips

  • {"body":"For weekend brunch, especially, making a booking is recommended to secure your spot and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.","title":"Book Ahead for Brunch"}
  • {"body":"Take advantage of their 'Kids Eat Free' on Wednesdays and the 'Burger & a Beverage' deal on Thursdays for great value.","title":"Check Out Weekday Specials"}
  • {"body":"Don't miss the unique Pacific Rim-inspired dishes like the Poke Bowl or Miso Eggplant for an adventurous culinary experience.","title":"Explore Pacific Rim Flavours"}
  • {"body":"Relax in the comfortable heated courtyard, offering sea views and a perfect setting for drinks or a meal.","title":"Enjoy the Heated Courtyard"}
  • {"body":"Pair your meal with a choice from their six rotating craft beer taps, a botanical cocktail, or a selection of local and organic wines.","title":"Savour the Drinks Selection"}

Good to know

  • {"family":"Kids Eat Free on Wednesdays","dietary":"100% Plant Based, Gluten Free On Request, Nut Free"}