In 1984, three brothers opened a small seafood and delicatessen shop in Wellington. They named it St Pierre’s, after the French name for the John Dory fish. Over time, this humble store transformed into one of New Zealand’s most beloved sushi chains. Now, in 2025, St Pierre’s celebrates 40 years of serving fresh, affordable Japanese cuisine to Kiwis.

St Pierre’s began offering sushi in 1992, and by 1993, they partnered with Tokyo Mutual Trading Company to import authentic Japanese ingredients. This commitment to quality helped them stand out in the growing food court scene. Their sushi quickly became known for its freshness, value, and consistency. Today, with over 70 locations across New Zealand, St Pierre’s remains a favourite for quick, healthy meals.

In Wellington, the chain has firmly established itself with multiple branches:

• Shop 31, Level 1, Lambton Square, 180 Lambton Quay
• Level 1, Cable Car Centre, 282 Lambton Quay
• Shop 6, Dukes Arcade, 1 Manners Street
• 189 Cuba Street
• 180 Adelaide Road, Newtown
• Shop 56, Johnsonville Shopping Centre, 34 Johnsonville Road
• Shop S-169, Westfield Queensgate Mall, Lower Hutt
• Shop 4, 45 Jackson Street, Petone

Each location offers a wide selection of sushi and hot meals. The menu includes hand-rolled sushi, nigiri, and their popular “Sushi of the Day” specials. For those seeking a heartier option, the Bento Bowl range features hot rice dishes topped with teriyaki chicken, fresh vegetables, or tofu. Additionally, miso soup and donburi meals are available, providing warm and nourishing choices.

St Pierre’s is known for its flexibility. Customers can customise their meals with extra fillings, spicy toppings, or vegetarian and vegan options. This adaptability ensures that everyone finds something to enjoy.

Over the years, the chain has embraced innovation. They have introduced self-service kiosks and partnered with delivery services like Uber Eats to enhance convenience. Despite these advancements, their core values remain unchanged: freshness, quality, and excellent value.

As St Pierre’s marks its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-prepared food. From its origins as a small seafood shop to becoming a nationwide favourite, the journey of St Pierre’s reflects the evolving tastes of New Zealanders. Here’s to many more years of delicious offerings.

Reported by One Network Wellington Live.