Most people will know Palmerston North for its surrounding areas of the rolling green hills of Manawatū. But when it comes to Palmerston North cafés, the region’s main city is onto something special. Known for its artsy meets country vibe, Palmerston North has plenty to offer when it comes to all things food and beverage.
Dotted throughout the heart of the city are numerous gems to be found, and further afar, you will find some cute-as-can-be country cafés for those who want to venture off the beaten track. From funky eateries on Broadway and Cuba streets to neighbourhood bistros in restored buildings where you feel less like a stranger and more like an old friend – there is plenty to choose from.
For the coffee connoisseurs, Palmerston North cafés champion local roasters such as Arrosta and Ebony – meaning you can easily find a top-notch flat white to quench your morning thirst and satisfy your caffeine requirements. For the foodies – the region’s produce is made the most of with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients and treasures to be found in abundance (those rich fertile pastures make for great growing), meaning brunch and lunch will not disappoint.
Combining the best of old-school Kiwi (think freshly made mince and cheese pies) with modern times and international influence (think nourishing Buddha Bowls with ingredients sourced from the farm down the road), Palmerston North cafés truly have something for everyone.
One of the Locals: An Insider’s Guide to Palmerston North
The Duke’s Roadhouse
The kind of rural gem that earns loyal detours, The Duke’s Roadhouse has quietly built a reputation for food worth planning your day around.
Awastone
Some places seem to understand exactly what weary travellers, adventure seekers, and weekend wanderers need before they do.
Three High Street
Good local cafes have a way of seamlessly fitting into a town’s rhythm, and Marton’s Three High Street Coffee House has quickly settled into that role.
Relish
Fresh baking has a way of drawing people in, and at Relish Rangitikei, the cabinet rarely stays full for long.
Barista
Barista on Palmerston North's George Street is a longtime favourite in the city centre, working a neat double shift as a cafe by day and bistro by night.
Country Road High Tea
Just a short drive from Palmerston North, Country Road High Tea on Oroua Road, Kairanga is a family-run destination offering a taste of luxury in the heart of the countryside.
Sublime Coffee Roasters
If you’re looking for great specialty coffee in the heart of Palmerston North, Sublime Coffee Roasters on Cuba Street is the place to be.
Mouthwater Coffee Company
A familiar and very welcome sight in Palmerston North, Mouthwater Coffee Company is out to prove that there’s more to food and drink carts than quick, grab-and-go...
Munch
Born out of owner Veronica James’ personal story, Munch in Palmerston North is a truly inclusive café where everyone is welcome, with an extensive and...
Palmerston North: NZ's Underrated Coffee Capital
Coffee on Ascot
Coffee on Ascot is a warm and welcoming neighbourhood cafe offering organic, fair-trade coffee and home baked snacks, raw slices and healthy treats.
BABCO - Brick Artisan Bread Company
BABCO, which stands for Brick Artisan Bread Company, was started by husband and wife duo Alice and Jeremy. The Palmerston North pair created BABCO from scratch in every sense of the phrase - it all started with a bread baking experiment in their backyard pizza oven.
Arrosta Coffee Roasting Co
Many of Palmerston North’s best cafés use Arrosta Coffee’s beans to construct considered flat whites, long blacks and the like.
LOCAL Café and Eatery
The fit-out is welcoming and bright, with cosy booths, low-top tables, a long communal table, and plenty of patio seating for nice days.
Ginger Bird
Ginger Bird is a countryside café with a big heart, excellent service, homemade treats and barista coffee. The café is housed within two shipping containers, but you’d never guess once inside as the wide windows, light timber and warm lighting give the space a cosy, homey feel.
