Best Cafés in Gisborne
First city to see the sunrise with East Coast coffee
Gisborne Coffee Scene
Gisborne's coffee culture embraces its unique status as the first city in the world to see each day's sunrise. Beachfront cafés along Midway Beach and Waikanae Beach serve sunrise coffee to early risers and surfers, while the CBD hosts cafés catering to the city's wine industry workers and local community.
Wine tourism drives Gisborne's café quality - Poverty Bay's reputation for Chardonnay and other varietals attracts food and wine enthusiasts who appreciate good coffee. The relaxed East Coast vibe permeates the café scene, with laid-back service and an emphasis on enjoying the region's sunshine. Māori heritage and surf culture add unique local flavor.
Top Cafés in Gisborne
Verve Café
Gisborne CBD
Gisborne CBD favorite with quality coffee. Local atmosphere, brunch menu.
USSCo Bar & Bistro
Gisborne Marina
Marina café and bistro. Morning coffee, waterfront views.
The Rivers
Gisborne
Restaurant with café hours. Quality espresso, lunch menu.
Muirs Bookshop Café
Gisborne CBD
Bookshop café combination. Browse books with quality coffee.
Bushmere Arms
Gisborne
Pub with café hours. Morning coffee, transitions to pub atmosphere.
The Works
Gisborne CBD
CBD café with quality espresso. Local favorite, breakfast and lunch.
🌅 Gisborne Coffee Tips
Gisborne is the first place in the world to see the sunrise each day - beachfront cafés open early for sunrise watchers. Combine morning coffee with a walk along Midway Beach or visit one of the local wineries for afternoon tastings.
Local tip: Verve Café in the CBD is the local favorite for consistent quality. USSCo at the marina offers the best waterfront coffee atmosphere.