Cafes are never far out in Christchurch if you want to have a hearty brunch and warm coffee. If you’re wondering where the best cafes in Christchurch are, we have your back with our roundup.

We also reviewed them so you know where to get the best coffee and brunch in Christchurch.

With the different cafes in the area boasting specialties and outside seats amid the vibrant town, which ones would you go to? We found several that serve amazing coffee and fabulous brunch all over Christchurch, so you will never have that dilemma of wondering “are there any cafes near me?”

And so without any delay, let’s now see get to our list.

The Best Cafes in Christchurch Reviewed

1. Lemon Tree Cafe

SERVICES	Check their menu for their complete offerings
WEBSITE	https://lemontreecafechch.com/
ADDRESS	234 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Facebook Instagram Phone: 03 379 0949 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Opening hours Monday – Friday | 8am – 3pm Saturday – Sunday | 9am – 3pm Dinner Ethiopian Food Thursday-Sunday – 4:30pm-8:00pm Booking is required for dinner hours only

Situated in the heart of Christchurch city, Lemon Tree Cafe is Christchurch’s only boutique premiere contemporary cafe. Located at 234 St Asaph Street, Christchurch, this charming cafe offers a unique and delightful experience for all its visitors.

Lemon Tree Cafe is the ideal spot for your get-together events. Whether you’re catching up with friends or celebrating a special occasion, you can enjoy delicious meals paired with a perfect afternoon of delight. The cafe’s inviting atmosphere ensures a memorable and lovely experience.

Step into Lemon Tree Cafe and be transported to a cozy, vintage-inspired setting. The unique interiors, combined with mellow background music, create a warm and inviting ambiance that makes you feel right at home. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

At Lemon Tree Cafe, you are guaranteed to have an amazing time. The cafe prides itself on offering a variety of delicious meals and even high tea, all prepared with the finest ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and charming ambiance make every visit a pleasure, ensuring you leave with a smile.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax with a cup of coffee or enjoy a delightful meal with friends, Lemon Tree Cafe is the perfect choice. Visit us today and experience the best of Christchurch’s cafe culture.

Just keep in mind that booking is required (only for the dinner hours), so make sure to contact them ahead of time before you visit.

Customer Reviews

“We get together regularly usually trying out different venues. The service was very good from a very friendly waitress who checked back to see if everything was OK. After we’d finished she asked if she could clear the table. The decor was quite quirky with different styles of furniture.” — Denise M.

”A group of four of us just popped in for a tea or coffee. My cup of lemon, honey and ginger was absolutely superb. Real lemon in the cup and the associated small tea pot. The others had hot chocolate drinks or coffees along with muffins etc. The food was excellent.” — Neil M.

2. Black & White Coffee Cartel

SERVICES	Coffee, Tea, Breakfast, Brunch, Short Orders
WEBSITE	https://www.blackandwhitecoffee.co.nz/
ADDRESS	Victoria St (The Original BW) 83 Victoria St, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013   Avonhead 45 Merrin Street, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042   Bush Inn, Upper Riccarton Bush Inn Waimairi Rd, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041   Crossing 71 Lichfield St, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011Zealand   High Street 169 High St, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011   Lichfield St (BW Origins) 150 Lichfield St, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand   Oxford Terrace 32 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011   Papanui 7 Winston Ave, Papanui, Christchurch 8053   Plymouth Lane 27 Plymouth Ln, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand   For a complete list of stores, go here
CONTACT DETAILS	Victoria St (The Original BW): (03) 365-5383 Avonhead: 021-0245-2894 Bush Inn, Upper Riccarton: 027-562-5954 Crossing: 027-273-5855 High Street: 021-118-9997 Lichfield St (BW Origins): 021-0214-4455 Oxford Terrace: 027-279-4162 Papanui: 021-0820-3989 Plymouth Lane: (03) 365-2660
OPERATING HOURS	Victoria St (The Original BW) Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 4:00pm   Avonhead Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 4:00pm   Bush Inn, Upper Riccarton Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 4:00pm   Crossing Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 3:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 9:00am – 3:00pm   High Street Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 3:30pm Saturday to Sunday: Closed   Lichfield St (BW Origins) Monday to Friday: 6.30am – 3.30pm Saturday: 8:00am – 2:00pm Sunday: Closed   Oxford Terrace Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 3:00pm   Papanui Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 3.30pm Saturday: 8:00am – 4:00pm Sunday: Closed   Plymouth Lane Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8.30am – 4:00pm

The first Black & White Coffee Cartel opened in 2015 in Christchurch and was New Zealand’s first micro roasting coffee franchise. It instantly became an iconic establishment and kicked off a new cafe culture of “funky, independent coffee shops” in the city.

What makes Black & White Coffee Cartel unique is that each branch roasts its own coffee in-house instead of arriving pre-roasted from a central location or commissary. This hands-on approach creates a fresher, fuller flavor and fills the cafe with an enticing aroma.

Their house blend is composed of Brazil Cerrado and Honduras La Flor, resulting in a medium roast that pairs well together to form a well-rounded bittersweet flavor. Just like their business model, they keep their coffee recipe simple to focus on the quality of the experience.

While you may not find eccentric coffee creations here, this cozy Christchurch cafe serves heartwarming classic flavors such as americanos, cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites, just to name a few. They also have a modest breakfast and brunch menu that consists of short-order items such as Salmon Bagels and Brioche French Toast, which complements their house blend nicely.

With multiple locations around the city and a unique ambiance, Black & White Coffee Cartel earns a top spot on our list of one of the best cafes in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

JonathanPrawiromaruto was a tourist in the area when he stumbled upon Black & White Coffee Cartel. He shares:

“Great place, great tasting food and drinks, and kind people. I came here from Indonesia to experience the south part of New Zealand. Wondering around the quiet town, we bumped into this place to chill for a bit before dinner time which is 5pm. Coffee is great, hot coco is great as well! Inside the place is very aesthetically sound, and they have the kindest people serving. Go for a try!”

Robert S. not only enjoyed the customer service, but commends the cafe for its menu. He writes:

“Wonderful ambience,great vibe. The staff very efficient,super disposition. Enjoyed many cappuccinos,both soya and almond. Super breakfast range. All of the foods on display looked fresh and so appetising. Scones to die for. Lovely seating outside weather permitting. A great experience.”

3. Underground Coffee Roasters

SERVICES	Coffee, Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dine-In, Take-Away, Online Store, Merchandise
WEBSITE	https://www.undergroundcoffee.co.nz/
ADDRESS	Brew Bar & Roastery 190 Durham Street South, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011   Riverside Kiosk Riverside Farmers Market, Cnr Lichfield St & Oxford Tce, Christchurch
CONTACT DETAILS	Brew Bar & Roastery: Phone: (03) 353-0267
OPERATING HOURS	Brew Bar & Roastery: Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 2:30pm   Riverside Kiosk: Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 3:30pm Saturday to Sunday: 9:00am – 4:30pm

Sometimes, it’s quite hard to find the perfect cafe in Christchurch that serves the coffee to match. However,  Underground Coffee Roasters just may be up to the challenge.

They serve four main house blends namely Avant Garde, Revolution, Beatnik, and Resistance Decaf which feature up to three unique mixtures of beans ranging from South America, Africa, and Asia. Whether you’re looking for a bold bittersweet flavor or a flowery taste, each blend has its signature personality that keeps customers coming back for more.

We like that Underground Coffee Roasters also periodically releases a seasonal blend, keeping their coffee menu fresh with new flavors. You can also conveniently buy a bag to bring home so you can wake up to the aroma and flavor of their custom blends in the comfort of your home.

Their flavors are not just the result of good bean selection – they also use their patented Sivetz Hot Air Roaster to envelope the beans in fluidized hot air. The controlled temperatures ensure the beans aren’t burnt and are roasted to get the fullest flavor while still keeping their natural character. 

We like the raw and minimal design of their interior, which makes Underground Coffee Roasters a wonderful place to sit back and relax with friends while the smell of coffee wafts in the air from its roastery. You can easily spend an entire day here since they have a short-order brunch menu that serves gourmet breakfasts, salads, and even a vegetarian falafel burger.

So overall if you want original coffee house blends and a healthy brunch selection, then this could be one of the best cafes in Christchurch for you.

Customer Reviews

Michelle Cockburn enjoyed her custom house blend from Underground Coffee Roasters and highly recommends coming here, as she writes:

“Excellent coffee! The best I’ve come across in chch even in comparison to other places throughout nz that I’ve been to! They make a wonderful coffee and have the most tasteful beans and ground coffee to make your own.”

Rashi Saxena, another customer, is a big fan of the food at Underground Coffee Roasters, often choosing it as her go-to brunch spot, as she says:

“Lovely place for a quick bite or to hang around for a while. Staff’s pretty awesome too. I had a ham and egg focaccia as it was the last savoury item left in the cabinet and it was delicious”

4. Little Poms

SERVICES	Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Coffee, Tea, Smoothies, Cocktails
WEBSITE	http://littlepoms.co.nz/
ADDRESS	294 Kilmore Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 366-5808
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 6:30am – 3:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 7:30am – 3:00pm

Situated in Central Christchurch, standing proud and tall along the street is Little Poms, a cafe that serves organic food with flavor-filled dishes that can rival any full-service restaurant. Their seasonal menu focuses on fresh ingredients that perfectly match their beverage selection.

The highlight here is their Allpress Coffee selection which features premium roasted beans served in a variety of styles. If tea is more of your thing, you can choose from classic options such as an Earl Grey, or something more exhilarating like their Ginger Lemoncello or Imperial Sencha.

Little Poms also has something for the health-conscious such as their banana smoothie which is an expert blend of almond milk, Medjool dates, peanut butter, and cinnamon. But if you need something to take both the thirst and edge off, you’ll have a choice between four locally crafted beers and wines from the pub next door. 

If it’s your first time to dine, we would recommend the House Crumpets, Cornflake Fried Cauliflower, and the House Smoked Salmon Pastrami, which are favorite mainstays on their menu. While we would have liked to have seen some sweet treats,  there’s no rule saying you can’t have their signature Ricotta Blue Berry Hotcake for dessert.

We love their comforting take on the usual healthy options, so we definitely think they’re one of the spots if you’re after the best brunch in Christchurch.

Whether you’re in for breakfast, brunch, or lunch here, you’ll love the simple but cozy interior styling which features a large community table and an open kitchen so you can watch your meals being prepared. Little Poms is an iconic Christchurch cafe and is definitely worth a visit if you’re from the city.

Customer Reviews

Sue Dwan, a fan of Little Poms, shares her thoughts on the cafe for future customers:

“Everything. Fantastic, friendly, fun staff; a fabulous ‘vibe’ in the place; expert, speedy service; their speed in clearing tables/ removing dishes/plates etc. Truly, everything is marvellous. Best place ever.”

5. Ten27

SERVICES	Small Plates, Super Food Deli Salads, Kids Menu, Hot & Cold Drinks, Wine, Beer
WEBSITE	https://www.ten27.co.nz/
ADDRESS	1027 Ferry Road, Ferrymead, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 595-2428 Cell: (027) 4455-775 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 5:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 5:00pm

What do you get when you combine a cafe, bar, and lounge all in one place? You get Ten27 – not just one of the best cafes in Christchurch, but also an events venue serving flavourful seasonal food with a broad selection of beverages.

This family-owned and operated space is operated by the Turnbull family, local long-time residents of the area. They’ve been serving their neighbors for over 20 years, providing them with live music performances every Friday night.

This cafe has chefs that produce their own artisan bread and keep the menu interesting with items such as Chia & Almond Brûlée and Welsh Rarebit. If you want something heavier, their Big Breakfast is a heaping plate of cumberland sausage, bacon, roasted tomato relish, Worcestershire roasted mushrooms, hashbrowns, and toast!

We like Ten27 because they’ve managed to squeeze in some vegan options such as the flavorful Roasted Potatoes with toasted walnuts and Miso Chive Vegan Mayo on their SuperFoods Deli Salads menu. They also offer soy, rice, almond, oat, and coconut milk to add to your coffee or tea.

The only downside is that the kitchen closes early at Ten27, which means that you won’t be able to enjoy some of their meals after 2:30 pm on weekdays and 3:00 pm on weekends. However, we’d recommend them as an event space because they can seat up to 100 people, whether you’re in for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or drinks.

With two large courtyards (one of which is pet-friendly), an outdoor fireplace, and cozy lighting, Ten27 has a sophisticated feel that can accommodate any themed event, whether it’s casual or formal. Coupled with exciting live performances on Fridays, this place earns a top spot on our list as one of the best cafes in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

One customer, Tiffani Field, was pleasalnty surprised at how Ten27 could accommodate her requests as she shares:

“Went in today and asked for a keto iced coffee which was not a problem at all and was great. Have been in for hot coffees too and they have been great. Every staff member has been polite and helpful too. Have had a lunch there too awhile ago and eoukd certainly go again. Thank you.“

6. Coffee Therapy

SERVICES	Asian Fusion Cuisine, Vegetarian Options, Coffee, Tea, Brunch
WEBSITE	https://www.facebook.com/therapyonoxford/
ADDRESS	77 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 943 6657 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 3:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:30am – 3:00pm

Coffee Therapy is a new cafe in Christchurch in the middle of CBD offering gourmet sandwiches, salads, and a soothing cafe environment. The chic and modern ambiance offers an inviting place to grab a sweet treat and chat with friends.

This hidden gem is known for being a go-to spot to grab a pastry during your break at work for some comforting, heartwarming treats such as cakes and slices. A stylish cafe with fresh food and drinks made daily, they also offer a small menu for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re coming in for the first time we suggest starting by sampling the smoked salmon on rye with poached egg, avocado and hollandaise. For something lighter, the granola yoghurt and berries or French toasted banana bread are excellent options as well.

Although the portions are quite small here compared to other cafes, the rich flavors more than make up for it. If brunch isn’t your thing, their cabinet fare offers a wide array of choices ranging from orange-almond cake to marshmallow slices.

It’s retro-themed cafe is a delight to have your brunch or a cup of hot chocolate in, but their unique motto of “if you can’t stay, then take it away”, makes Coffee Therapy one of the best places to for coffee and brunch in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

Helga Wilson loved the view and cozy ambiance at Coffee Therapy, as she shares:

“We had the special of the day, a vegetable soup, which was absolutely delicious. The employees were very accommodating, and let my friend and I split the meal in half to share. The view of the river from the window seat along with the decorations, ambience, and kind servers made this a super cozy and welcoming place to stop by. Perfect for a rainy day !”

7. Chicoti’s Cafe

SERVICES	Cheese Scones, Muffins, Cake, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Dine-In, Take-Out
ADDRESS	182 Papanui Rd, Merivale, Christchurch 8014
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 355-1481
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Saturday: 5:00am – 4:00pm

Chicoti’s Cafe Merivale Christchurch is a locally owned and operated cafe that has a reputation for its friendly owners. This hole-in-the-wall bistro and pastry house is located in Papanui Road in Christchurch.

When visiting this hidden gem, make sure you look carefully down the street because you just might miss this quaint little shop. Chicoti’s is a neighborhood favorite best known for having the best cheese scones in the area that’s portioned very generously.

While it’s a small and cozy space, there are plenty of tables inside and outside in the adjacent alleyways as well, where you can enjoy one of their flavorful coffees and watch people walk by. We like their flat whites and cappuccinos, although they serve a delicious hot chocolate that’s swimming with marshmallows.

If you want to enjoy a quick snack and a great cup of coffee while you’re  in the Papanui Road area, then Chicoti’s Cafe is our pick of the lot. With a solid cup of long black paired with cakes, muffins and sandwiches, this European themed cafe might be small, but gives new meaning to a hole-in-the-wall cafe.

If you love quaint, uncrowded places, then you may consider this to be one of the best cafes in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

Mark Anderson, a regular customer, has been visiting Chicoti’s Cafe for a very long time as he shares:

“Every saturday for the last few years … I get a cheese scone ,date scone and coffee … why you might ask … well because the food and coffee is great and the friendly banter.”

8. In Situ Cafe

SERVICES	Coffee, All-Day Menu, Desserts, Smoothies
WEBSITE	https://www.insitucafe.co.nz/
ADDRESS	Unit 2/Unit 2/239 Opawa Road, Hillsborough, Christchurch 8022
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 332-8587 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 6:30am – 4:00pm Saturday: 8:00am – 3:00pm Sunday: Closed

In Situ is a local Christchurch cafe that has become a local favourite. It’s known for its diverse menu with a wide array of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, brunch in Christchurch or just a sweet treat, you’ll find something to go along with your cup of coffee.

Known primarily as a welcoming pitstop for those making their way to Lyttelton, In Situ is known for its freshly brewed coffee and latte art. Travelers often grab a quick cup of coffee and a cabinet snack, such as their sausage rolls or a sandwich, to take with them on the road.

This cafe’s cozy and classic interior might be a bit small, but it can make for a nice spot to get together with friends or to spend a quiet afternoon alone. If you prefer to dine alfresco, they have picnic benches outside as well where you can eat their famous Smash Avocado that’s topped with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, salad greens, and a poached egg.

Don’t want a caffeinated drink with your meal? In Situ offers smoothies as well in a variety of fresh flavors, and we’d highly recommend the plum smoothie. Although with all the mouthwatering variety of cookies, muffins and other sweet treats to top off your meal, you may  not have enough space to enjoy your drink.

Overall, the best way to describe this coffee and brunch place in Christchurch is if you want a go-to place to take or meet someone and you know there’s something for everybody.

Customer Reviews

Ryan Li is a regular customer at In Situ because of the excellent service and shares his thoughts:

“Caring and champion team with a passion for good food, coffee and service. Jay always serves with a smile. You can’t go wrong with the chocolate brownie, it’s a winner for sure.”

9. City Social

SERVICES	Bagels, Coffee, Brunch, Take-Out, Dine-In
WEBSITE	https://citysocial.co.nz/
ADDRESS	151 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013
CONTACT DETAILS	Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 4:00pm

City Social is a cafe in Christchurch that’s situated in the city centre near the Avon river, serving coffee that’s been roasted right in the Christchurch area. This is also one of the best spots to have a bagel and relax after work with a cold refreshing drink.

This cafe is part of a group of restaurants that include Southside Social, Barberra, and Sawyer so you can rest assured that their experience is evident in both their operations and menu offerings.

Bagels from Good Honest Products is their specialty item on their all-day menu, prepared in a variety of ways, and it’s a shame they don’t make it in house. You can have it as a Reuben, Chicken & Cranberry, Salmon, Bacon & Egg, or even with a Smashed Avocado.

They also have an Avo on Toast for vegans, but we have to say that we’d recommend going for the Hoisin Duck Buns which are filled with delectable shredded duck. Now, if you want something a little more classic, every Friday is “Fried Day” at City Social, where they serve up fried chicken, burgers, and fries.

This Christchurch cafe is also famous for its pizzas, which are handmade to order and feature fresh seasonal ingredients. We’re big fans of the Apricot Chicken, Smoked Salmon, and Truffled Mushroom, which are sure to please even the most discerning of foodies out there.

Overall we love their multi-cultural menu. There’s something for everybody whether they are healthy or indulgent, and this is why we consider it to be one of Christchurch’s best cafes.

Customer Reviews

Morgan Williams was a first-time customer but is definitely going to be returning to City Social as he writes:

“Had a quick lunch with a mate and sat outside, which was just lovely. Friendly lady served us and was quick and attentive. I had duck buns which were delicious, and my friend had a mix of the cabinet salads…Would like to come back here for a beer in the sun some time!”

10. Park Ranger

SERVICES	Organic Food, Breakfast, Brunch, Coffee, Retail Store, Joco Cups
WEBSITE	http://parkranger.nz/
ADDRESS	114 Riccarton Road, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 341-7949 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 3:30pm Saturday: 8:00am – 3:30pm Sunday: 9:00am – 3:30pm

Advocates of the environment, Park Ranger Cafe aims to acquire the freshest locally sourced produce to give life to their seasonal menu. Located at Riccarton in Christchurch, the goal of this cafe is to provide their customers with healthy and sustainable food.

Their Smoothie Bowls are a big hit in the local community, which are jam-packed with seasonal fresh fruits, a berry-banana mixture, and house-made granola! Another wholesome bowl you can try is their Healing Bowl which consists of cabbage slaw, avocados, beetroot, and asparagus finished off with a spicy sauce.

Park Ranger has a wide array of other meals, sides, and pastries you can choose from either à la carte or from the cabinet. The cafe is spacious and cozy with decor that places a special focus on items produced by local artisans which you can purchase as well.

This makes the cafe an inviting hangout to host an event or to have a cup of their superb house blend coffee.  Their three-origin blend coffee is hot-air roasted to perfection which makes it a perfect pair to one of their sweet treats and coffee table appetizers.

Offering classic coffee creations, we would have liked the options for different sizes instead of only having one standard, non-negotiable size. However, you can purchase one of their reusable Joco Cups that come in 8oz or 12oz sizes, which helps to do your part in practicing sustainability as well.

Customer Reviews

Aaron Schulz, a resident of the area, loves coming to Park Ranger for the breakfasts. He writes:

“Excellent breakfast menu. Different and fresh offerings compared to standard cafe”

Annie-Rose Dredge, another regular customer, goes here weekly. She shares:

“My husband and I go here for coffee a few times a week. The coffee is perfect, the service super chill and nice. Good vibe, always feel comfortable. We haven’t eaten off the menu but want to. The menu looks interesting, fresh, and more affordable compared to similar cafes.”

11. XCHC Cafe at Exchange Christchurch

SERVICES	Makerspace, Showcase Space, Cafe, Take-Away, Delivery, Guest Chefs, Pop Ups
WEBSITE	https://www.xchc.co.nz/
ADDRESS	376 Wilsons Road, Waltham, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone (Mobile): 027-828-3757 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 10:00pm Saturday: 10:00am – 2:00pm Sunday: Closed

If you want to have coffee or brunch in Christchurch and meet like-minded people, then this one’s for you.

XCHC (Exchange Christchurch) provides a place for creatives to cultivate their art, have meaningful discussions related to their craft, and socialize with other fellow artists. It features four main areas: makerspace, showcase space, accommodation, and the cafe/bar.

Focused on community and strengthening ties through art, XCHC places focus on creation, sharing, and connecting. The cafe is the perfect place for creative individuals to work, chill and showcase in a casual setting that features communal seating and extremely fast fiber Wi-Fi.

Within only five years of operating, they’ve already hosted over 1,200 events and have showcased over 90 exhibitions. This pet-friendly space has welcomed people from all walks of life such as artists, designers, freelancers, and social entrepreneurs, just to name a few.

XCHC Cafe is a unique concept because it features guest chefs and pop-ups from local cuisine creators, providing a radically changing menu while maintaining a space that’s conducive for work and socializing. It also creates a more intimate relationship between the customer and the chef, heightening the relationship and appreciation for each other’s presence and contribution.

The menu here is seasonal and changes depending on the supplier or guest “Chef in Residence” that wants to showcase their cuisine.  You can expect salads, toasted sandwiches, baked specialties, vegan food,  and more in its ever evolving menu.

With a diverse menu and a diverse crowd, this cafe in Christchurch is definitely one of the best in the city!

Customer Reviews

Mitch King, a customer at Exchange Christchurch expresses it brilliantly on Facebook:

“This place is food heaven. Can’t fault a single thing. 10/10. Really friendly. The Coffee is one of the best I have had. Food is hearty and flavours paired perfectly. Smoothies bursting with flavour. Really glad we found this gem on our New Zealand travels. My only regret is that we didn’t find this place earlier”

12. Addington Coffee Co-Op

SERVICES	Coffee, Dine-In, Online Store, Brunch,
WEBSITE	https://www.addingtoncoffee.org.nz/
ADDRESS	297 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch 8024
CONTACT DETAILS	Café and Laundry: Phone: (03) 943 1662 Email:[email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 4:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8.00am – 4:00pm

Addington Coffee Co-op café was established in 2008 to create a space for the local residents to meet, mingle, drink coffee, and talk shop. However, what makes their space unique is that 70% of their profits are given back to the producers of the products they sell to help create a cooperative community.

Their initiative has aided in laying foundations of buildings in Ethiopia and coffee replanting in Central America, from where they source their coffee from. From the sales, they expanded their sourcing to Kolkata where they were able to contribute as well.

Best known for their house-roasted Common Good Coffee, Addington Coffee Co-Op is a top destination not just for residents, but for tourists visiting the area.  Apart from their infamous House Blend roast, you can take home a bag of their Better Blend beans as well to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

Serving up a diverse brunch menu with gluten-free and plant-based options, we’d suggest the Porridge which has oats simmered in maple syrup and soy milk topped with roasted pear and black doris plum compote.

If you’re looking for something a bit heavier, the Big House features Hungarian sausage, bacon, potato rosti, roasted mushrooms, and tomato-bean ragu. This comes served with Grizzly sourdough slathered in butter and tomato relish served with poached or scrambled eggs.

Don’t forget to visit before the kitchen closes at 2:30 pm if you want to sample their other gourmet dishes, and you’ll need to let them know you’re vegan before you order. Other than that, there’s not much else not to like about Addington Coffee Co-Op, since every order you make ultimately helps promote sustainability and a true cooperative business network.

Customer Reviews

Sarah Kelly Beale, a first time customer, had a wonderful experience at Addington Coffee Co-Op as she writes:

“First time visit – Absolutely 5 star! Best pancakes I’ve ever had and my partner loved his big brekky too! This will be a place we return to every time we come to Christchurch…we eat out a lot and ACCO is definitely my favorite place this far…(wish I could add a pic of my gorgeous pancakes to show you all how amazing they are!)”

13. No. 186 Cafe

SERVICES	Reservations, Dine-in, Walk-In, Group Bookings, Waiter Service, Outdoor Seating
WEBSITE	http://www.186cafe.co.nz/
ADDRESS	186 Yaldhurst Road, Sockburn, Christchurch 8042
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 342 4283 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 7:30am – 3:00pm Tuesday to Friday: 7:30am – 4:00pm Saturday: 8:00am – 4:00pm Sunday: 9:00am – 4:00pm

Cafe 186 is a family owned-cafe in Christchurch that is dedicated to providing the best dining experience to all of its patrons. It may be best known for its extensive menu, which features heartwarming coffee and tea selections alongside scrumptious brunch and lunch items.

If you want to see the daily or seasonal specials, all you have to do is glance at their blackboard in the cafe. With a space that can host private events for up to 30 people, No. 186 is a great place to get together with friends or family in an ambiance as comforting as its menu.

We like that you are free to customize the strength and flavors of their two coffee blends, along with fresh tea leaves that give it a breath of fresh traditional flavor. They have gluten-free options and also offer a Keto and special Kids menu.

Although they only have one real dedicated vegan menu item, you are more than welcome to request a vegan option such as asking for the feta cheese to be taken out of their Roast Vegetable Salad or opting for no eggs on the Big Veggie Breakfast. You can also make your own customised sandwich as well with your choice of plant-based fillings.

So needless to say if you’re vegan, or would like to take a vegan out, then this is the best cafe in Christchurch for vegan coffee or brunch.

Customer Reviews

Hannah Edward shares her experience at No. 186 cafe:

“One of the best coffees we have had in Christchurch and very friendly staff. Nice and clean and even has a little garden area.”

User Lesleyk72, another customer, also comments:

“We enjoyed an excellent breakfast. The mushrooms were beautiful, & it was no problem to swap rye bread for foccacio, which worked very well. My husband enjoyed his big breakfast.We had to pass on coffee, but will be back for it, as their dark roast coffee is the best we have tasted. Service was friendly and attentive.”

14. Moment Cafe

SERVICES	Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Coffee, Tea
WEBSITE	https://www.momentcafe.co.nz/
ADDRESS	87 Manchester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 261-4141 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00am – 2:30pm

Moment Cafe operates on the philosophy that good business and delicious food can be founded upon sustainability. With a diverse menu that features cuisines from various cultures, they source the freshest produce and strive to cater to even the most discerning palette.

Part of their values revolves around supporting their neighbors, whether a supplier or a fellow business owner, to strengthen their ties around the community. They also promote environmentally-friendly practices in their operations, such as composting and recycling.

If you’re in for brunch or lunch, we highly recommend the Buttermilk Chicken Burger which is set in a brioche bun and slathered with their signature herb and spice mix. They also have a vegan alternative, the Spiced Tofu Burger, which features the same fresh fillings but is sandwiched in a gluten-free pretzel.

While the rest of the menu features common household dishes you’ll find in other cafes, we like that they put some creative touches on their coffee options. Alongside traditional recipes, you’ll find a unique coffee mixed with a homemade lemon-ginger-honey mix as well as a Mocha Dirty Chai blended with ice cream.

This family-friendly space features a kid’s menu and even has board games that they can play. So whether you’re having a family day or bringing the kids along to meet a loved one, you don’t’ have to worry about finding something they’ll enjoy.

All in all, Moment Cafe could be the best place for coffee or brunch in Christchurch if you have little ones in tow.

Customer Reviews

Haley MacKenzie, one of Moment Cafe’s customers comments:

“Great range of fresh food breakfasts and lunches. Cater to vegan and also some chicken and salmon on the menu. Best scrambled tofu I’ve had anywhere.”

15. Gentle Giant Cafe

SERVICES	Coffee, Breakfast, Brunch, Take-Out, Dine-In, Outdoor Seating
WEBSITE	https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantcafex/
ADDRESS	158 Ferry Road, Waltham, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 366-9144 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 3:00pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:00am – 3:00pm

Gentle Giant is an industrial-themed cafe in Christchurch filled with repurposed wooden furniture and vintage carpets that are surprisingly cozy and inviting. The brainchild behind this rustic space is also the same team cooking up ideas for In Situ Cafe.

This “worn-out” space features fresh cuisine and inspiringly great coffee, with snug indoor seating and take-out options. It’s a local favorite hangout after work, but tourists to the area seek the Gentle Giant for its sumptuous brunch menu as well.

One of their best sellers here is the Spicy Pork Belly with Smashed Avocado which is served on toasted sourdough bread. But the local favorite, and the odd one out on its eclectic menu, is the Sticky Crispy Chicken served with sweet sauce and oriental slaw.

If you’re looking for something light, the Creamy Oat Porridge is a local favorite, which is topped with caramelized nuts, dried fruit and served to simmer in rich milk and cream. Don’t worry if you’re looking for a more traditional breakfast of eggs or bagels, they have it here too.

They have various cabinet food as well, which are perfect to pair with a cup of coffee-to-go. Whether it’s a slice of raspberry cake, lemon squares, cookies, or other pastries, you’ll find a sweet treat to take from this cafe in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

Malcolm H, a tourist in the area, went to Gentle Giant for the breakfast, as he shares:

“Called in for a quick breakfast before heading back to Dunedin. My wife had the granola and I had porridge. Both were superb – well presented and generous servings. Followed this up with an excellent coffee. We don’t get to Christchurch often these days, but would definitely go back to Gentle Giant when we do.”

Gavin, a regular customer, shares his thoughts:

“My wife and I have been to Gentle Giant a few times before and have always enjoyed the innovative food.”

16. Vinyl Cafe

SERVICES	Micro Roastery, Coffee, Brunch, Take-Out, Retail Store
WEBSITE	https://www.facebook.com/VinylCafeChristchurch/
ADDRESS	24B Essex Street, Phillipstown, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone (Mobile): 027-543-1877 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 3:30pm

Love music and coffee? This one could be the perfect cafe in Christchurch for you.

Vinyl Cafe is a music lover’s paradise and provides the best freshly roasted coffee experience for the residents of Christchurch. Located on Essex Street, it is connected directly to The Coffee Workshop, its in-house roastery, and serves as its front-of-the-house.

Filled with vintage art, furniture, and fixtures, Vinyl Cafe will best be appreciated by die-hard audiophiles who prefer listening to music on dusty records. You’ll admire the impressive collection of vinyl this cafe has on display, no matter what genre you prefer.

They offer a variety of single-origin and premium blends, with beans hailing mostly from Central and South America such as Brazil and Nicaragua. To find out what’s brewing for the day, all you have to do is check out what’s been dubbed as the “Origin Wall”.

We like Vinyl Cafe because they can create custom blends just for you! Whether you want to experiment with mixing different beans or you want to recreate a blend you’ve had before, they’ll be more than happy to collaborate and experiment

Along with their signature blends, this cafe offers a great selection of toasted sandwiches, pizzas, and sweet cabinet treats that are made fresh daily. With a range of light breakfast items to heavier brunch meals, you’ll find something here to whet your appetite.

If you’re looking to take more than a cup of coffee and a sandwich home, Vinyl Cafe sells its premium blends so you can wake up to the aroma of their signature coffees. For the aficionados who want to take it a step further, they also sell compact coffee roasters that can provide individuals and businesses the ability to roast their beans instantly for maximum freshness.

Customer Reviews

Sonia Hooper, a regular customer, shares her thoughts:

“Wonderfully decorated. great music, definitely not a generic coffee shop. Friendly staff.”

Mati Vait, another customer, also shares:

“Cool interior, really tasty coffee and cheese scone. Nice music as well. Its the spot.”

17. Maison de Crepes

SERVICES	Authentic French Crêpes, House Blend Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Keto
WEBSITE	https://maisondecrepes.co.nz/
ADDRESS	106 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch 8011
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 355-8882 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: Closed Tuesday and Sunday: 8:00am – 4:00pm Wednesday to Thursday: 8:00am – 9:00pm Friday to Saturday: 8:00am – 10:00pm

If you want to have a taste of Paris in the middle of Merivale, then this is the best cage in Christchurch for you.

Maison de Crêpe is a Parisian-inspired cafe that offers its patrons the romance and charm of feeling like their dining in the City of Love. Known for a wide array of decadent dishes, it’s their crêpes and coffee that have people coming back for more.

Each crêpe is made from freshly-whipped batter and is topped off with luscious cream and fillings that are sourced from local markets. Their signature Lemon & Sugar crêpe is handmade and prepared fresh on-site with only the best locally sourced ingredients.

They also have guilt-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, and vegan crêpes, which is more than enough to convince us to dine here. However, they also offer fresh organic salads and house-made croissants to make the visit all that much more sweeter.

We like this charming and authentic cafe because it offers the residents of Christchurch a break from the usual bistro offerings of burgers, pizzas, and other common short orders. You won’t find any of that on the menu here, which is a good thing in our opinion.

Maison de Crêpe has also meticulously handpicked the beans for their French-style coffee, which is sweet with hardly any bitter undertones. You can take home a bag of their boutique coffee blend either as beans or ground finely.

For a truly unique experience and a taste of Parisian charm, this pet-friendly cafe offers the best and the most authentic crêpes you’ll taste for miles around. For those reasons and more, Maison de Crêpe earns a top spot on our list of the best cafes in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

Robyn Gourlay, a customer of Maison de Crepes comments:

“Obviously the food is amazing but we love the staff too. Margot is so welcoming and attentive and we always go away feeling uplifted. Today we used some of our SOS cafe vouchers and they thanked us warmly for having bought them. We had the French toast crepe and French toast waffle. Despite the sweet brunch we still couldn’t resist a side of garlicky potatoes.”

18. The Old Vicarage

SERVICES	Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Kids Menu, Wine List, Set Meals, Private Function Rooms
WEBSITE	http://www.theoldvicarage.co.nz/
ADDRESS	335 Halswell Road, Halswell, Christchurch 8025
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 322-1224 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Sunday: 8:30am – Late

The Old Vicarage used to be the home for the local minister and his family but has since taken on a new purpose while still nurturing the local residents with good food, conversation, and a warm ambiance.

Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this cafe features picturesque lawns, a cozy interior with private dining rooms, and an open deck for an alfresco experience.

For something a little different, we’d recommend giving the Venison Fry and Prosciutto Wrapped Chicken Parcels a try, which is sumptuous, tender, and heartwarming at the same time. You can pair your mains with their famous Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes or a lighter Rainbow Slaw which has shredded cabbage, beetroot, and other fresh seasonal vegetables. 

They also offer a range of vegan-friendly and gluten-free items such as their Roast Vegetable & Falafel Salad and Tofu Noodle Salad. Using only locally sourced ingredients, The Old Vicarage has something on the menu for everybody, making it a great choice for coffee or brunch in Christchurch.

With an extensive wine list, a children’s menu, and even special set menus that can be created just for your special event, we like this space because of its charming atmosphere paired with its unique take on local cuisine.

We also like that they offer Loyalty Cards and if you sign up a month before your birthday, you even get a free meal. You’ll accumulate loyalty points as a member and you can then receive up to 10% on coffee, discounts on beverages (including wine), and no 15% surcharge on public holidays.

Highlights

• Offer tasty and appetising food

• Pleasant and relaxing cafe

• Excellent customer service

• Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews

Here’s what Rebecca Jane Nyberg has to say on Facebook:

“Amazing food, and service as always! One of my favourite places to go.“

19. Hello Sunday Cafe

SERVICES
WEBSITE	https://www.hellosunday.co.nz/
ADDRESS	6 Elgin Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone: (03) 260-1566 Email: [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS	Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 4:30pm Saturday to Sunday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Hello Sunday is located in a former 18th Century post office before it was converted into the modern laid-back cafe it is today. Known for its inviting ambiance and flavorful food, it provides a venue for residents to gather together with their families in a relaxing, casual atmosphere.

With only 15 items on their menu, each recipe here has been carefully crafted to please even the most discerning of diners. Consisting mostly of brunch short orders, anybody who visits here will find something to order.

We like their twist on local-favorite porridge, which has candied almonds, brandy snap mascarpone, and oat milk. However, for a heartier breakfast, you’d need to try their take on French Toast which features house-made spiced orange syrup, pistachio, burnt butter mascarpone, orange, pomegranate, and nougatine.

For the more adventurous, we highly suggest the Beef Cheek Hash which comes with pickled cucumber, poached eggs, sriracha hollandaise, and Kākāriki puffed noodles. If you’re vegan, the Miso Roast Veg Falafel Smash is up your alley, which has Wasabi Raglan coconut yogurt, kimchi, and almond butter.

Offering both black and white coffee, we would have liked a lot more styles to have been offered. However, you can take each cup iced or hot, with over four different kinds of milk to choose from including plant-based options.

With an extensive beverage menu and a mix of cuisines offered, Hello Sunday is the perfect place for a laid-back casual brunch and earns a spot on our list of the best cafes in Christchurch.

Customer Reviews

Richard, a regular customer, shares his story for future customers of Hello Sunday:

“The most amazing brunch was served to us on Saturday, that we came back for breakfast on Sunday morning. The delicious French toast dish was a work of art and the avocado smash with poached eggs and other delicious little treats on the side was fabulous. The team have nailed the dining experience; very very good food, in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. You have created a good format and you so deserve to be as busy as you are. Well done guys.”

FAQs about the Best Cafes in Christchurch

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And with that, we’ve finally come to the end of our list of the best cafes in Christchurch. Whether you want to grab a treat to-go or stay in for a cup of coffee, we hope you’ll visit one of the establishments on this list.

Did we miss a great cafe you frequent that’s not listed on here? If so, we’d love to hear from you, so leave us a comment down below!

And just in case our list has inspired you to be a coffee connoisseur, you must check out or list of the best coffee machines in New Zealand.

Now, that you’ve got your brunch spot sorted out, you may be interested in looking for a place to have dinner as well. We’ve got you covered with our list of the best restaurants in Christchurch.