There are no shortage of cafes in Kaikoura. Whether on the Beach Road or along the Esplanade and W End, you’re spoilt for choice with coffee and all things related.
Cafe Encounter
96 Esplanade
One of the most popular eateries in Kaikoura, and it’s not just the beach front location and spectacular views that makes it such a hit with visitors and locals alike. They make superb breakfasts and lunches, delicious smoothies and of course: quality coffee. So it’s little wonder that this cafe is a common stop off point for people about to head out for a dolphin swimming adventure where you’ll need a good amount of nourishment and energy from quality fresh food.
This cafe is in fact run by the Dolphin Encounter and Albatross Encounter teams so is obviously located in the perfect spot for those services – however anyone can drop by and experience the excellent hospitality and food/drinks on offer here. Good vegetarian meals are also available.
Bean Me Up
84 W End
Famous for their coffee which uses locally roasted beans, Bean Me Up is a first choice for many people who’ve experienced the coffee here. But there’s a lot more on offer, and it’s a particularly desirable place for vegetarians and vegans with huge vegie burgers on offer which should ease the worries of any non-meat eaters concerned they’ll have trouble filling their stomachs.
There’s also a fresh bakery selection, sandwiches, salads, hot foods and more.
Chiwis Cafe and Takeaway
114 Beach Road
With coffee, all day breakfasts home made pies, eat in meals and takeaway, and late summer opening hours, outdoor and indoor seating; Chiwis is a popular eatery with both locals and visitors. They’re open until 8pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and until 8.30pm on Friday and Saturdays throughout summer. Chiwis consistently receives positive feedback from customers thanks to their great service and quality food and coffee.
Why Not Cafe
66 W End
Standard food fare and coffee is on offer at the Why Not Cafe. Service can be reported to be hit and miss at times, as can the quality of the food; and this has led to this cafe receiving a somewhat more negative appraisal in online forums compared with most other cafes around Kaikoura. Vegetarians and vegans will have trouble finding something to eat here.
Slam Club
A cafe/club/pub hybrid makes the Slam Club unique. Along with coffees, cakes and salads, you can also get some restaurant style meals at the Slam Club plus there’s entertainment, alcohol, live bands and quiz nights. The reasonable prices and great atmosphere repeatedly earn the Slam Club positive reviews from visitors. As far as vegetarian eating goes, Slam Club can be quite meat heavy with roasts and grills, so it probably won’t be top of the list for vegans/vegies.