Oikos Hellenic Cuisine — Restaurant in North Island

Disappointing Experience – Rigid Policies and Poor Service

We had high hopes for Oikos, but unfortunately the experience was disappointing from start to finish.

We made a booking for 7 people two weeks in advance. Two days before the dinner, we requested to add one extra guest—a friend who had just flown in from overseas. Instead of showing any flexibility or hospitality, we were told that our entire group would be forced to have the set menu, which we didn’t want, as several of us are vegetarian or pescatarian. No alternative was offered. The result? Our friend couldn’t join us. For a restaurant supposedly built on the Greek ethos of warmth and sharing, this was anything but.

When we arrived, I made it clear we’d be sharing all dishes. Yet dishes arrived with just 3–4 pieces, making it impossible for everyone to try them. Surely, a competent server would advise on portion sizes when a group is clearly sharing. Instead, we had to reorder multiple dishes just to ensure everyone could have a bite.

To top it off, a waitress dropped the water bottle on a glass, which thankfully narrowly missed one of our guest, and there was not even a basic apology. Accidents happen—but basic manners shouldn’t be optional.

While the food was decent, ultimately, the rigid attitude in adding an extra guest and lack of service in helping us with the right portion sizes for sharing left a bad taste.

I won’t be returning. Wellington has too many great restaurants that understand hospitality—not...

Amazing Dining Experience at Oikos

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Oikos in Wellington, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Theo, the owner, went above and beyond to ensure every guest felt at home — a rare and refreshing touch in the Wellington dining scene.

The set menu was nothing short of spectacular. Each dish was crafted to perfection, featuring an incredible selection of fresh breads, vibrant salads, succulent meats, and a yogurt dessert that was simply divine. I also had the chance to try their in-house Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc, both of which were exceptional and paired perfectly with the meal.

What stood out most was the personal touch. Theo took the time to sit with us, share stories, and ensure every part of the experience was just right. It’s clear that passion and hospitality are at the heart of Oikos. If you’re looking for a dining experience where you feel genuinely cared for while enjoying phenomenal food, this is the place to be.

Highly recommend Oikos to anyone seeking an elevated yet down-to-earth dining experience...

Came here with my partner for our first time on a Friday at 5:00 (being one of the only booking slots available) and the food was amazing, although was let down by the service and speed of dishes coming out.

We ordered roughly 9 dishes in total, all which arrived within 15 minutes of sitting. We felt extremely rushed to get out, and our waitress was quick to clear unfinished dishes off our table. We understood it was a Friday before the rush, but considering we had such an early booking, we expected there would be some advantage to being able to relax and enjoy an evening out rather than being rushed out the door.

Maitre d was pretty uninterested in us when entering, and didn't acknowledge us or thank us when taking our payment at the end. Overall, it was a bit annoying because the food was so good.. just wish the dishes were...