103 The Store

Some destinations in Central Otago involve fast-flowing rivers or lush orchards, and others reward the traveller with a cheese roll topped generously with butter. 103 The Store in Roxburgh is the latter.

This Scotland Street business has been around since 1995, when friends Teresa and Sally decided to open a fashion and homeware concept store. While one area of the space still brims with an eclectic array of products that leans towards a rustic French country aesthetic, the addition of a cafe in 2012 has transformed it into a regular gathering place for locals and a drive-worthy destination for visitors.

Every morning from 7.30am, as the sun rises over the hill and floods the cafe with a soft, golden light, the coffee machine turns on and is kept busy right up until closing time. While your intention may be to come in for a cup of Allpress Coffee or something from the Harney & Sons tea menu, chances are you won’t leave without making your mark on the cabinet. A contender for one of the most inviting cabinets and countertops in the region, all the nostalgic goodies you see here are made on-site. From the hunks of lolly cake, caramel slice and special Friday donuts, to the cheese rolls and mousetraps served on vintage china plates, 103 The Store is all about feeding the soul with delicious, homemade food.

As well as a five-star cabinet, a breakfast and brunch menu provides the perfect excuse to pull up a chair and start the morning with a book in hand or the company of good friends. 103 does all the classics well, featuring poached eggs, berry waffles with bacon, and homestyle mince on sourdough that definitely won’t be leaving the menu anytime soon. For out-of-towners who don’t get to wander down to the cafe each day, jars of house-made lemon curd, preserves and cordials are a tasty souvenir to remember your time in Roxburgh by.

It’s no mean feat operating a successful cafe and retail store for over three decades, but Sally and Teresa’s passion and people-focused mindset keep 103 The Store thriving as the town’s community hub.