A city’s cafe culture can give a real insight into the kind of place it is. From sophisticated joints to more eccentric places, there’s always a breakfast and brunch spot to suit everyone. Nelson is spoilt for choice when it comes to the cafe scene, with every establishment offering something different in this vibrant little city.
Ready to dive in? Take a look at our lineup of Nelson’s best cafes, you can thank us later.
DeVille Cafe
New Street, Nelson
A local hospitality icon, DeVille Cafe turns into a music venue once the sun sets but during the day it’s a great option for breakfast, brunch or lunch. It also boasts one of the best outdoor eating areas around, featuring chunky picnic tables, sun umbrellas, and pups are welcome too. Part of the garden is also covered by a canopy so you can still enjoy an outdoor dining experience even in rare inclement weather. Deville is Nelson famous for its fried buttermilk chicken but the brisket bagel is also melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Bobby Franks Cafe
Tasman Street, Nelson
Located in a charming heritage building just on the outskirts of town in The Wood, Bobby Franks Cafe is an ideal spot for a weekend brunch (or any time of the week who are we kidding). As well as breakfast favourites such as huevos rancheros and the bacon and egg roll they offer some truly tasty blackboard specials and do a mean cheeseburger. All in.
The Baker’s Coffee Shop
Collingwood Street, Nelson
Delightfully rustic, The Baker's Coffee Shop is a French-style cafe tucked away out of sight, but definitely not out of mind. As the name suggests, The Baker's is all about the tastiest baked goodies, from artisanal breads, to almond croissants and cinnamon morning buns. If you’re looking for a cosy escape, this is the perfect spot to settle down for a coffee and a treat.
Rustic Cuisine
228 Rutherford Street, Nelson
Cute little sun-drenched cafe Rustic Cuisine offers a taste of France in Nelson. They offer sweet crepes and savoury galettes, made right before your eyes in their open kitchen. They’re all delicious but the Normande galette with locally produced Little River wildfire cheese is a taste sensation. They also serve the best hot chocolate and have a range of frozen meals such as Coq au Vin and lasagne to enjoy at home. They’re only open Tuesday to Friday so it’s definitely worth making some time to visit.
Porta Via
Hardy Street, Nelson
You might find it hard to tear yourself away from the sun-drenched, leafy courtyard hidden behind Porta Via and its sister restaurant Arden. This charming little cafe offers gourmet toasties—whose fillings include truffle cheese and beef cheek—alongside salads, cheeses and housemade sodas. A special shout-out goes to their divine take on the Reuben. Porta Via also serves as a wine and cocktail bar and you can even get a bottle filled with your choice of wine from their taps to take home. Yes.
RED Art Gallery & Cafe
Bridge Street, Nelson
Is it an art gallery? A gift shop? A cafe? It’s all three! Red Art Gallery has it all and you’ll find it hard to leave empty-handed. As well as sculptures and paintings in their newly opened gallery, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of gifts, jewellery, books and homewares, much of which is produced locally. In RED cafe, you can choose from a small but perfectly formed selection of treats including cheese scones, savoury scrolls and ginger gems. They also serve Best Ugly Bagels with a range of delicious toppings.
River Kitchen
Trafalgar Street, Nelson
River Kitchen occupies a beautiful spot right on the Maitai River that has a dog-friendly outdoor area, so feel free to bring your pup along on sunny days. You can also fill up your milk bottles from their Oakland Milk vending machine. They have a bustling indoor area with lovely cabinet food and a delicious menu with some twists on the usual fare. Once you’ve finished eating, you can hop straight onto the riverside path for a gentle post-brunch workout.
Hattie's Cafe
Achilles Avenue, Nelson
New kid on the block Hattie's Cafe hasn’t been open very long but it’s already establishing itself as a great spot for coffee for those who work in the surrounding offices. It also has very good cabinet food and a small but tasty menu with some really good vegetarian options and super salads. It’s the perfect spot for a quick and light lunch.
Tozzetti Cafe & Bakery
Vanguard Street, Nelson
There’s plenty of room to move in this spacious and airy cafe that has great cabinet food and a menu to choose from too. But what you really want to try at Tozzetti Cafe & Bakery are the pies. As well as the classic mince and cheese and steak and cheese they also offer a tasty (and spicy) vegetarian lentil pie. Be sure to get in early though as their pies often sell out. Their sweet treats are also hard to go past, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better chocolate brownie anywhere else in the country.
Victus Coffee & Eatery
Bridge Street, Nelson
If you’re looking for something to make you feel good, Victus Coffee & Eatery is the place to go. Victus means the way of living, nourishment and ‘that which sustains life’ which owners Nick and Beth hold close to their hearts. Victus utilises delicious whole foods by the plateful, so you can get your fair share of what’s good for you—and if that includes banana waffles, we’re definitely in. Victus offers an impressive brunch menu, as well as smoothies and juices packed with everything you need to get on with your day.
Lambretta’s
Hardy Street, Nelson
Embrace Nelson’s Italian roots at Lambretta's Cafe right in the heart of Nelson City. They take scooter culture very seriously, with literal scooters and memorabilia adorning the walls, and even a couple taking pole position out the front of the building. When it comes to choosing what to order, you’ll be spoiled for choice with what’s on offer on both their menu and in their cabinet—from pizzas to paninis, and some sweet treats too. Bask in the warm Nelson sun at one of the city’s most iconic cafes.
Melrose House Cafe
Brougham Street, Nelson South
A local treasure, Melrose House Cafe is set within the historic Melrose House and garden and is the place to go when you really fancy a treat. They specialise in indulgent cakes and signature drinks, and you’ll also want to check out their tempting seasonal menu. Feeling extra fancy? Why not spoil yourself with an iconic Melrose Cafe high tea, complete with both sweet and savoury treats and a drink of your choice. Once you’ve finished indulging, take a wander around the house and garden and take in a bit of Nelson's history.
Founders Cafe
Atawhai Drive, Nelson
Located smack bang in the middle of Founders Heritage Park, Founders Cafe is the perfect place to take a break from exploring the park. Their luscious menu has so much to offer you’ll have a hard time choosing. If you fancy something a bit stronger than your usual brew, they’ve got a variety of local beers and ciders on tap to quench your thirst from the hot Nelson sun.
Yaza! Cafe Bar
Montgomery Square, Nelson
Two words—cheese scones. If that’s what you’re craving, Yaza! Cafe's iconic cheese scones are hands down the best in Nelson. They’re big, cheesy with the perfect amount of spice, and come with a generous helping of butter. Absolutely dreamy. Aside from the legendary scones you can also tuck into everything from salads and vege nachos to loaded deep-fried potatoes. The vibe here is funky and eclectic, and the outdoor seating is the ideal place to people/dog watch at the Saturday Farmer’s Market while you enjoy your snack in the sunshine.