Chiwis Cafe
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Chiwis Cafe

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A vibrant Kaikoura cafe known for its exceptional coffee, delicious homemade pies, and a diverse menu featuring multicultural dishes.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Chiwis Cafe

Chiwis Cafe

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant Kaikoura cafe known for its exceptional coffee, delicious homemade pies, and a diverse menu featuring multicultural dishes.

"The best Cafe in town with excellent service, delicious food, and beautiful coffee!"

TIP

Extended Summer Hours

Visit Chiwis Cafe during summer for extended opening hours, including late evenings on select days.

Try the Lavender Ice Cream

Don't miss the locally made lavender ice cream - described as delicious, refreshing, and one of the best ever.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Open·Closes 3PM

Cuisine

Cafe, European, Asian

Price

Mid-range

Phone

+64 3 319 7876

Address

72a West End, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mouthwatering Homemade Pies & Savory Dishes

Mouthwatering Homemade Pies & Savory Dishes

From fresh salmon eggs bene to mussel pies and pumpkin soup, savor a wide range of delicious, homemade options.

Exceptional Coffee & Welcoming Ambiance

Exceptional Coffee & Welcoming Ambiance

Enjoy expertly crafted double-shot coffees in a warm, friendly atmosphere with personalized service.

Google Review
Multicultural Culinary Delights

Multicultural Culinary Delights

Experience a unique blend of cuisines, from Asian dishes like Bulgogi dupbap and curry udon to fresh sushi.

Google Review+1
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

WHOS YOUR FAVOURITE? 52 Things to do in Kaikōura. 13/52 - Visit a local Cafe. Beach House Cafe Sime's Kitchen Pedro's Flo & Co Middlehurst Station Farm Store Why not Cafe Chiwis Cafe Encounter Bee Box The Caves There are plenty of other places not listed above to grab a bite in town too. Visit Kaikoura today and check them out! And of course book with us for your accommodation!
@closetohomenz
64 likes • 2.4K views

Extended Summer Hours

Visit Chiwis Cafe during summer for extended opening hours, including late evenings on select days.

Try the Lavender Ice Cream

Don't miss the locally made lavender ice cream - described as delicious, refreshing, and one of the best ever.

Great for Breakfast & Lunch

Enjoy delicious food options, from cabinet food to full meals, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.

Dine In or Take Away

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by dining indoors or outdoors, or opt for convenient takeaway meals.

Tips

from all over the internet

Extended Summer Hours

Visit Chiwis Cafe during summer for extended opening hours, including late evenings on select days.

Try the Lavender Ice Cream

Don't miss the locally made lavender ice cream - described as delicious, refreshing, and one of the best ever.

Great for Breakfast & Lunch

Enjoy delicious food options, from cabinet food to full meals, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.

Dine In or Take Away

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by dining indoors or outdoors, or opt for convenient takeaway meals.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chiwis Cafe is widely praised for its friendly service, excellent coffee, and delicious homemade food, particularly its pies and multicultural dishes. Many visitors find it a welcoming spot for breakfast and lunch, appreciating the relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points mention fries being too salty or croissants not being fresh.

"Great café for breakfast! Beautiful location and sitting outside on a sunny day makes it even better. I had an latte and Eggs Benedict with mushrooms – both were absolutely delicious. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Highly recommend if you’re in Kaikoura!"

Luise Schilling

"We weren’t really expecting much but the food was great!! We got the chicken burger ($23 each) and it was a really decent sized portion. Fries were just a bit too salty but everything else was perfect. The staff were also really nice. Well done!"

Leo

"Ops I forgot to ask her name, Mrs Owner of the cafe. She was awesome! Very patient, friendly and very helpful. Excellent! Coffee was superb! We also had brownie, lemon slice and chicken wrap plus the photos. Worth it! Thanks again for the great experience."

MrandMrs Smithy

What People Like

Friendly and attentive staff
Delicious coffee and homemade pies
Diverse and tasty menu options

What People Dislike

Occasional issues with freshness
Fries can be too salty

Frequently Asked Questions

Chiwis Cafe has extended opening hours during the summer, including late evenings on select days. It's best to check their specific hours during your visit.

Top 19 Unforgettable Experiences: The Best Restaurants in Kaikoura

Yes, Chiwis Cafe has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options available on their menu.

Google Review

Reviewers highly recommend the homemade pies, pumpkin soup, salmon eggs benedict, and the unique lavender ice cream.

Google Review

Yes, the cafe offers a friendly atmosphere and good food options that are suitable for families.

Google Review

Yes, Chiwis Cafe offers both dine-in and takeaway options for their hot and cold food.

Restaurants in Kaikoura, ChristchurchGoogle Review

The coffee is frequently praised for being superb, delicious, and made with double shots, often with locally toasted beans.

Google Review

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

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Top 19 Unforgettable Experiences: The Best Restaurants in Kaikoura

Chiwis Cafe is a charming cafe located in Kaikoura that offers a wide range of delicious food and drinks. With friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, the cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a coffee. The coffee is made quickly and comes with a double shot, and the cabinet food is freshly made and full of flavour.

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sluurpy.nz

The best Lunch in Kaikoura

We were actually wanting to try the cafe next door to this one for coffee, but it was closed so in to Chiwis we went. Ordered flat white coffee. Was...

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My Guide Christchurch

Restaurants in Kaikoura, Christchurch

We are a small, warm and friendly team offering great service, great food & great coffee. Wide range of hot and cold food dine in or takeaway.

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Chiwis Cafe (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide