Fidel’s Cafe Founders Celebrate 35 Years with Legacy Award

The founders of Fidel’s Cafe, a well-known establishment in Wellington, have been recognized for their significant contributions to the local hospitality industry. Roger Young and Potti Wagstaff were awarded the Legacy Award at the recent Welly Hospo Awards, celebrating their 35 years of service and dedication to the capital’s dining scene.

Recognition in Hospitality

Fidel’s Cafe, which opened on Cuba Street, is celebrated for its exceptional coffee and a popular menu item, the “signature” Eggs Benedict with homemade hash browns. Although the café has been temporarily closed for earthquake strengthening since May, it is currently operating as a daytime pop-up at Havana Bar on Wigan Street.

At the awards ceremony, Young expressed his gratitude, stating he felt “humbled” by the recognition. He remarked on the evening’s positive atmosphere and the importance of acknowledging the hard work of those in the hospitality sector. “It was so nice for us, after our service to the Wellington hospitality scene for the last 35 years,” he noted.

Future Plans and Challenges

Initially, Young and Wagstaff considered selling Fidel’s due to the pressures of managing a large café seven days a week. However, they have decided to retain ownership for the time being and continue with the pop-up format at Havana Bar. Young hinted at the café’s potential return, stating, “Watch this space.”

The Cuba Street location has completed its earthquake restrengthening, though a recent assessment revealed that such work was not strictly necessary since the building is under two storeys. Young expressed disappointment at the situation, especially as it resulted in the layoff of several staff members due to the café’s closure. Despite this, the response to the pop-up has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers enjoying the beautiful Wigan Street venue during the day. “The feedback has been amazing,” he added.

This year marked the second iteration of the Welly Hospo Awards, which were previously known as the Felix Awards. The awards were previously organized by the Restaurant Association (RA), which announced last year it would no longer host the ceremonies. This decision was met with a mixed response from hospitality professionals.

The winners of the Welly Hospo Awards for 2025, following two rounds of voting, included:

• Front of House Professional: Matthew Buchanan – The Ram
• Outstanding Chef: Tom Adams – Margot
• Outstanding Bartender: Roseanna Johnstone – Hanging Ditch
• Outstanding Barista: Ai Yamaguchi – Orange
• Outstanding Regional Venue: 50-50
• Sustainability Award: Everybody Eats
• Outstanding Restaurant: Margot
• Outstanding Cafe: Swimsuit
• Outstanding Fish & Chips: Wellington Seamarket
• Outstanding Cocktail Bar: Dee’s Place
• Outstanding Wine Bar: Puffin
• Finest Taproom, Beer Bar or Pub: Rogue and Vagabond
• Outstanding Everyday Eats: Fred’s Sandwiches
• Outstanding Catering/Events: Acme, Aeropress Champs
• Outstanding Producer/Supplier: Moore Wilson’s
• Outstanding Sales Representative: Chris Thompson – Coffee Supreme
• Emerging Back of House: Zane Gupwell – Graze Wine Bar
• Emerging Front of House: Ella Malinda – Puffin
• Legacy Award: Roger Young and Potti Wagstaff – Fidel’s and Havana

As the Wellington hospitality scene continues to evolve, the legacy of Fidel’s Cafe and its founders remains a testament to dedication and excellence in the industry.