Craving the best cafes in Tauranga for quality coffee, fresh meals, and relaxed atmospheres? Tauranga’s cafe scene features local ingredients, specialty brews, and options for various dietary needs across the Bay of Plenty city. Spots like The Med Cafe and Alimento Eatery highlight the welcoming, community-focused venues available.
1The Med Cafe
The Med Cafe in Tauranga provides a home-like setting focused on great coffee and tasty food prepared with locally sourced ingredients. It offers all-day breakfast and lunch options in a convenient CBD location. The cafe suits locals, families, and visitors seeking a relaxed spot for meals or a quick coffee.
Services
- All-day breakfast and lunch dishes
- Barista-made coffee and drinks
- Cabinet treats and kids menu
- Catering requests
Highlights
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Gluten-free options available
- Kitchen closes at 2:30pm with cabinet food until 3pm
- Text ordering available
Location & Contact
Name: The Med Cafe
Address: 62 Devonport Road, Tauranga
Phone: 022 123 0876
Website: medcafe.co.nz
2Alimento Eatery
Alimento Eatery, established in 2002, is a central Tauranga favourite known for consistent food quality, coffee, and friendly service in a historic building. It emphasises locally sourced ingredients and prepares its own bread, pastries, and desserts. The eatery suits foodies and diners seeking modern cafe fare with dietary accommodations.
Services
- Breakfast and lunch a la carte and cabinet items
- Barista coffee and smoothies
- Own-made bread, pastries, and desserts
- Options for dietary requirements
Highlights
- Established in 2002
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Historic former Masonic Lodge building on First Avenue
- Outdoor seating available under Karaka tree
Location & Contact
Name: Alimento Eatery
Address: 74 First Avenue, Tauranga 3110
Phone: 07 579 5990
Website: alimentoeatery.co.nz
3Elizabeth Cafe and Larder
Elizabeth Cafe and Larder in Tauranga delivers quality food and coffee in an architecturally designed, award-winning venue with an experienced team. It partners with Kokako Organic Coffee Roasters for blends like the Aotea and sources local produce where possible. The cafe suits those seeking dedicated service, events, or a welcoming space for breakfast and lunch.
Services
- Breakfast and lunch with local produce
- Specialty coffee from Kokako Organic Coffee Roasters
- Events and catering
- Larder stockists and products
Highlights
- Award-winning venue
- Partners with Kokako Organic Coffee Roasters
- Experienced team from New Zealand and around the globe
- Architecturally designed space with ample parking
Location & Contact
Name: Elizabeth Cafe and Larder
Address: 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga
Phone: 07 579 0950
Website: elizabethcafe.co.nz
4Oscar & Otto
Oscar & Otto combines a modern daytime cafe-eatery (Otto) with an adjoining venue (Oscar) on The Strand in Tauranga. It serves fresh, seasonal breakfast and lunch alongside Coffee Supreme espresso and house-made cold pressed juices. Opened in late 2018, it suits central location diners and those planning events or functions.
Services
- Breakfast and lunch menu
- Specialty coffee and cold pressed juices
- Cabinet food and fresh treats
- Catering and events
Highlights
- Opened in late 2018 by Catherine MacLoughlin and Hamish Carter
- Coffee Supreme espresso
- Own cold pressed juices
- Adjoining boutique venue for private functions
Location & Contact
Name: Oscar & Otto
Address: 51 The Strand, Tauranga 3110
Phone: 07 282 7879
Website: oscarandotto.co.nz
5Vitality Kitchen
Vitality Kitchen is a plant-based vegan cafe in Tauranga offering gluten-free options, vegan cakes, and locally roasted coffee beans. Led by chef Mané with over ten years of vegan experience, it bakes fresh cabinet items daily and provides catering services. The cafe suits vegans, health-conscious diners, and those seeking sustainable, cruelty-free meals with an additional location in Mount Maunganui.
Services
- Plant-based meals and cabinet food
- Vegan cakes and gluten-free treats
- Locally roasted coffee using Wahla Beans
- Catering and online ordering
Highlights
- 100% plant-based with gluten-free options
- In-house baking by chef Mané
- Two locations including Mount Maunganui
- Locally roasted Wahla Beans
Location & Contact
Name: Vitality Kitchen
Address: Willow Street, Tauranga
Phone: 027 278 9963
Website: vitalitykitchen.co.nz
How to Choose the Right Cafe in Tauranga
- Check for dietary options such as vegan, gluten-free, or vegetarian menus if needed.
- Look for cafes that source local produce and use quality or locally roasted coffee beans.
- Consider location convenience, whether near the CBD, The Strand, Mount Maunganui, or Cameron Road.
- Review menus for fresh, seasonal dishes, cabinet treats, and all-day breakfast or lunch availability.
- Assess service style, staff experience, and atmosphere for a welcoming experience suitable for quick visits or longer stays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tauranga Cafes
What are typical opening hours for cafes in Tauranga?
Most cafes open around 7am on weekdays and slightly later on weekends, closing mid-afternoon around 3pm, though hours can vary by venue and season.
Do Tauranga cafes offer vegan and gluten-free options?
Yes, several cafes specialise in plant-based and gluten-free menus with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences.
Is outdoor seating common in Tauranga cafes?
Many cafes provide outdoor seating, taking advantage of the coastal climate, especially near beaches or central areas like The Strand.
Can I find cafes in Tauranga that offer catering or events?
Several venues provide catering services and event spaces for functions, meetings, or celebrations alongside regular cafe operations.
Do Tauranga cafes use locally roasted coffee?
Many pride themselves on quality coffee, with some partnering with local roasters or using beans from New Zealand suppliers for fresh brews.
Are there cafes suitable for families or groups in Tauranga?
Yes, options include kids menus, spacious seating, and family-friendly atmospheres in central or beachside locations.