Located within the famed Hannahs Laneway is Shepherd, a restaurant serving modern food with a creative flair. In true Wellington fashion, Shepherd was born out of collaboration by hospitality heroes Sean Golding of neighbouring Goldings Free Dive, and Shepherd Elliot of  Leeds Street Bakery.

The emphasis at Shepherd is undeniably on locally sourced ingredients, resulting in enticing seasonal menus that let the ethically sourced meat, seafood and vegetables speak for themselves. There’s a selection of five or six small plates, bowl options, larger plates and desserts, which work best when shared. Alongside the food, the drinks selection is excellent - four unique rotating beers on tap and a well-considered wine list, which the super-knowledgeable staff are happy to help you navigate.

The strong colours of red and purple create a surprisingly warm, lively glow throughout the restaurant, and the two main spaces provide ambience for large parties, couples or single diners. Up top, the kitchen bar stools provide a prime view of the chefs hard at work, while the high tables and stools (which come accompanied with sheep wool throws for comfort) are perfect for kicking back and conversing. The lower tier is populated with dining tables and the uncommon grow room (growing herbs) is located just off to one side.

Shepherd effortlessly portrays their emphasis on sustainability, quality and comfort, whether it’s through conversation with the approachable staff or clever design like the mass of pickling jars above the kitchen bar. One thing that’s truly evident is that Shepherd runs on passion.