Reviewed by rebecca Thomson, The Wellingtonian, 2 April 2009

If you're looking for a place to dine before seeing a play, head to Circa's Wharfside Restaurant.

Circa Theatre moved from Harris St to Taranaki St in 1994, and the more spacious building meant there was room for a cafe. For a long time Circa Cafe served coffee, snacks and light meals. A couple of years ago, the owners rebranded it as Wharfside and the chef, Tza Drake, has introduced a new menu.

Wharfside is set up for theatre-goers, and it doesn't matter which theatre you're heading to later in the evening. The friendly staff will check when you need to be in your theatre seats and time your meals accordingly.

Those seeing productions at Circa can order coffee and desert for interval or for after a production, and staff will have it ready for you. There are also package deals that include ticket prices and meals. There is good variety in the menu and although none of the mains are vegetarian, most of the light meals and entrees are. I had the crispy salmon with hollandaise, and my friend had the sirloin with bearnaise and mashed potato. The meals arrived promptly, as did the wine, and the waiter was helpful when my friend changed her mind about which wine she wanted. The salmon was crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, and the hollandaise really was hollandaise. My friend asked for her steak medium-rare, but it was served medium. However, it proved tender and tasty, so she was happy to eat it. The only quibble was that the red-wine sauce was overpowered by rosemary and tasted of lamb. Even so, it was a fine meal and the steamed veges we asked for topped it off nicely.

Set at the back of Circa Theatre in a conservatory-like area, Wharfside looks over the harbour and is a great place to people-watch. The atmosphere is relaxing and you don't feel rushed. The meal for two, including wine, was $60.

Wharfside is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5pm, and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 5.30pm.