Best Cafes in Hastings: Top 5 Experts You Can Count On for Exceptional Coffee and Food
Craving the best cafes in Hastings for a perfect coffee, hearty brunch, or a cozy spot to relax? Hastings, nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, boasts a vibrant cafe scene that celebrates fresh local produce, artisanal brews, and warm hospitality. From chic urban haunts to charming suburban gems, these cafes offer unforgettable dining experiences for locals, tourists, and food enthusiasts alike.
We’ve curated five top Hastings cafes, each with a verified website and a reputation for quality, creativity, and community connection. Whether you’re after gluten-free treats, vibrant brunch dishes, or a quick coffee to fuel your day, these spots deliver. Explore our guide to find your new favorite cafe and savor the flavors of Hastings’ thriving culinary culture!
1. No.5 Café & Larder
About the Business
No.5 Café & Larder, located on State Highway 51 in Mangateretere, is a beloved Hastings cafe set against the backdrop of orchards and vineyards. Known for its family-friendly vibe and commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients, this cafe has earned a loyal following since opening, offering a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
Key Services / What They Offer
Serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and afternoon high tea with dishes like eggs benedict, creamy mushrooms on toast, and gourmet salads. Offers barista-made Hawthorne coffee, specialty teas, and a range of cabinet treats, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Features contactless ordering via the Bopple app for convenience.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families, couples, and groups in Hastings seeking a scenic, welcoming cafe for hearty meals or high tea, with options for dietary needs.
What to Expect
Expect a spacious, airy venue with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for soaking in Hawke’s Bay’s sunny climate. The service is warm and efficient, with generous portions and beautifully presented dishes. The contactless ordering system adds a modern touch, ensuring a stress-free experience, especially during busy periods.
Standout Features
- Scenic location near orchards and vineyards
- Contactless ordering via Bopple app
- Extensive gluten-free and vegetarian options
- High tea service for special occasions
Customer Feedback
“No.5 Café’s eggs benedict is phenomenal, and the outdoor seating is so relaxing. The staff are always friendly!” shared a regular on their website.
Why Choose Them?
No.5 Café & Larder’s blend of fresh, local cuisine, scenic charm, and modern conveniences makes it a top choice for a delightful cafe experience in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
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Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: no5.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. OMGoodness Specialty Breads & Cafe
About the Business
OMGoodness Specialty Breads & Cafe, located on Omahu Road, is a Hastings treasure known for its artisan gluten-free breads and health-focused menu. Founded over 15 years ago by owner Scott, who perfected gluten-free baking, this cafe and bakery offers nutritious, delicious options that cater to diverse dietary needs.
Key Services / What They Offer
Serves breakfast and lunch with dishes like avocado toast, gluten-free sandwiches, and nutrient-packed salads. Offers house-made gluten-free bread, pre-made baking mixes, and cabinet treats like raw slices and paleo-friendly sweets. Provides barista coffee and encourages reusable cups for sustainability.
Who It’s For
Perfect for health-conscious diners, gluten-free eaters, and families in Hastings seeking wholesome, tasty meals in a cozy setting.
What to Expect
Anticipate a warm, inviting space with a focus on quality and sustainability. The staff is knowledgeable about dietary needs, and the food is fresh, with bread baked daily on-site. The cafe’s compact size creates an intimate vibe, though it can get busy during peak hours.
Standout Features
- Specializes in gluten-free, paleo, and raw options
- House-made artisan breads and baking mixes
- Sustainable practices with reusable cup discounts
- Nutritious, high-quality ingredients
Customer Feedback
“OMGoodness’ gluten-free bread is the best I’ve ever had! The cafe’s salads are so fresh, and the staff are lovely,” noted a customer on their website.
Why Choose Them?
OMGoodness’ expertise in gluten-free baking and commitment to healthy, delicious food make it a standout for inclusive cafe dining in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: omgoodness.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. Long Island Delicatessen
About the Business
Long Island Delicatessen, situated on Market Street South, is a chic takeaway deli and cafe in Hastings’ CBD, celebrated for its vibrant counter displays and high-quality fare. With a focus on fresh, daily-changing menus, this deli has become a go-to for locals seeking gourmet meals on the go.
Key Services / What They Offer
Offers takeaway breakfast and lunch options, including artisan sandwiches, seasonal salads, and protein-packed bowls. Features a cake counter with bespoke desserts and a deli section with local cheeses and charcuterie. Provides barista coffee and supports reusable containers for eco-conscious dining.
Who It’s For
Suited for busy professionals, foodies, and families in Hastings seeking premium takeaway meals or deli goods for entertaining.
What to Expect
Expect a sleek, bustling venue with a stunning long counter showcasing colorful dishes. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring quick service even during lunch rushes. All items are packaged for takeaway, making it perfect for picnics or office lunches, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Standout Features
- Daily-changing menu for variety
- Takeaway-focused with reusable container support
- Premium deli goods like local cheeses
- Vibrant, Instagram-worthy counter displays
Customer Feedback
“Long Island’s sandwiches are next-level, and the cake counter is irresistible! Perfect for a quick, gourmet lunch,” shared a client on their website.
Why Choose Them?
Long Island Delicatessen’s fresh, gourmet takeaway options and deli offerings make it a top pick for convenient, high-quality cafe dining in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: longislanddeli.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
4. Bay Espresso Karamu Road
About the Business
Bay Espresso Karamu Road, a popular chain with a flagship location in Hastings, is renowned for its superb coffee and hearty, fresh meals. This bustling cafe on Karamu Road has been a local favorite for years, offering a welcoming space for breakfast, brunch, and coffee breaks in the heart of the city.
Key Services / What They Offer
Serves breakfast and lunch with dishes like eggs benedict, creamy mushrooms, and gourmet burgers, alongside a wide range of cabinet food like scones and slices. Offers barista-made espresso, iced coffees, and smoothies, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Indoor and outdoor seating enhances the experience.
Who It’s For
Great for families, cyclists, and professionals in Hastings seeking a reliable cafe with diverse menus and excellent coffee.
What to Expect
Anticipate a lively, spacious cafe with friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere. The food is fresh and generously portioned, with outdoor seating perfect for sunny days. While table service is limited, the counter service is efficient, and the coffee is consistently top-notch.
Standout Features
- Renowned for superb, consistent coffee
- Generous portions and fresh ingredients
- Indoor and outdoor seating options
- Popular stop for cyclists and locals
Customer Feedback
“Bay Espresso’s coffee is the best in Hastings, and their eggs benedict is always spot-on. Love the outdoor area!” said a reviewer on their website.
Why Choose Them?
Bay Espresso Karamu Road’s exceptional coffee, hearty meals, and central location make it a go-to for a satisfying cafe experience in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: bayespresso.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
5. Mitzi & Twinn Cafe
About the Business
Mitzi & Twinn Cafe, located on Heretaunga Street West, is a vibrant Hastings hangout known for its freshly made food and fairtrade coffee. This cozy cafe has built a strong community following with its inclusive menu and catering services, making it a top spot for casual dining and events.
Key Services / What They Offer
Serves breakfast and lunch with dishes like cheese scones, vegan wraps, and hearty sandwiches, alongside cabinet treats like gluten-free muffins. Offers fairtrade Kokako Organic coffee, kombucha on tap, and catering for weddings, corporate events, and birthdays. Vegan and gluten-free options are plentiful.
Who It’s For
Perfect for vegans, families, and event planners in Hastings seeking fresh, inclusive meals and reliable catering in a friendly setting.
What to Expect
Expect a cozy, community-driven atmosphere with cheerful staff and a menu that caters to all diets. The food is made fresh daily, and the coffee is rich and ethically sourced. The cafe’s compact size adds to its charm, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.
Standout Features
- Fairtrade Kokako Organic coffee
- Extensive vegan and gluten-free menu
- Catering for events and functions
- Freshly made food daily
Customer Feedback
“Mitzi & Twinn’s vegan wraps are delicious, and their coffee is amazing. It’s myseealso
Conclusion: Discover Hastings’ Finest Cafes for Your Next Visit
Finding the best cafes in Hastings guarantees a delightful culinary experience in the heart of Hawke’s Bay. No.5 Café & Larder, OMGoodness Specialty Breads & Cafe, Long Island Delicatessen, Bay Espresso Karamu Road, and Mitzi & Twinn Cafe offer exceptional coffee, fresh local cuisine, and welcoming atmospheres, catering to every taste and dietary need. Their dedication to quality, community, and creativity makes them standouts in Hastings’ vibrant cafe scene.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Hawke’s Bay’s sunny fruit bowl, these Hastings cafes provide the perfect spots to relax, dine, and connect. Visit their websites to check menus, book tables, or inquire about catering. Head to one of these trusted cafes today and savor the flavors of Hastings’ thriving food culture!
Helpful Information About Hastings Cafes
Hastings, located in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, is known for its flourishing fruit orchards, wine regions, and vibrant café culture. The city offers a diverse mix of urban and rural charm, which extends to its cafes — from modern coffee spots in the CBD to cozy brunch havens near Te Mata Peak and Havelock North. Whether you’re exploring the weekly Hastings Farmers’ Market or strolling through Cornwall Park, you’re never far from a fantastic local café to refuel and relax.
The best cafes in Hastings showcase the region’s commitment to locally-sourced produce, sustainable practices, and expertly brewed coffee. From artisan baked goods and seasonal brunch dishes to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something to suit every taste. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the strong community vibe and welcoming hospitality that define the Hastings café experience.
Choosing the Right Cafe in Hastings
- Consider the café’s location—proximity to local attractions like the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market or Splash Planet can influence your choice and enhance your visit.
- Check the menu online to ensure there are options that fit your dietary needs, especially if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free.
- Seek out cafes with outdoor seating if you enjoy dining al fresco, particularly during Hawke’s Bay’s sunny seasons.
- Look for places that offer barista-made coffee using local roasters for an authentic regional flavor.
- For a quieter, more relaxed ambiance, consider independent neighborhood cafes in suburbs like Frimley or Mahora versus busier CBD spots.
- If sustainability matters to you, select cafes that promote reusable cups, ethical coffee sourcing, and eco-friendly practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hastings Cafes
What types of food can I typically find at cafes in Hastings?
Cafes in Hastings commonly serve breakfast and brunch dishes like eggs benedict, avocado toast, salads, and sandwiches, alongside sweet treats and cabinet food. Many incorporate seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and orchards.
Are there any vegetarian or gluten-free cafes in Hastings?
Yes, many Hastings cafes offer extensive vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. It’s common to find specially marked menu items or entire cafes catering to health-conscious diners.
Do Hastings cafes usually offer takeaway options?
Most cafes in Hastings offer takeaway for coffee and foods, making them ideal for picnics in Cornwall Park or office lunches in the CBD. Some cafes also support reusable containers or offer eco-friendly packaging for sustainability.
What are typical café hours in Hastings?
Typical opening hours for cafes in Hastings range from 7:00 or 8:00 AM to about 3:00 or 4:00 PM, especially for breakfast and lunch service. Some may open on weekends or offer extended hours for events or high teas.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at a café in Hastings?
For most casual visits, reservations aren’t required, but booking ahead is recommended for larger groups or during peak weekend brunch times. Some cafes accept online bookings or use ordering apps for convenience.
