Black Betty

Black Betty on Christchurch’s Madras Street first opened in February 2011, and since those early days, it has cemented itself as a firm favourite on the Ōtautahi coffee scene. Operated by local roastery Switch Espresso, it’s no surprise that Black Betty has exceptional coffee, and they pride themselves on offering a range of brewing styles. Not only is the caffeine selection on point, you won’t go hungry here, with a full cabinet offering plus a very tempting brunch menu. Black Betty truly has something for everyone, with its effortless vibes and atmosphere, you’ll quickly find a reason to become regular and part of the community culture they have created.

As many hospitality businesses have done in the South Town area of Christchurch’s city centre, Black Betty inhabits a renovated warehouse space. This has resulted in vaulted ceilings, which add an openness and airiness to the cafe, and the overall feel is industrial and quirky. The glass-topped tables showcase a curated collection of items, including foreign currency, collected crockery, drawings, figurines, and more. Details like this create a ‘lived-in’ feeling to Black Betty and make you feel right at home.

From students popping in between classes, business meetings taking place to friends and family catch-ups, Black Betty’s extensive range of seating options caters to everyone's needs. They offer two private rooms that you can book, perfect for those celebrating special occasions and even working lunches or presentations with free wifi. It's an excellent spot for the digital nomads amongst us to get some work done.

Now onto the most important detail of any cafe’s offering… their coffee! And the coffee at Black Betty is on point, and the variety of options will leave even the most discerning of customers happy. From specialty iced options such as an espresso tonic and cold drip to a bottomless Moccamaster brew to the classics, you’re sorted. Switch Espresso coffee beans are available to buy by the bag, so if you enjoy what you’re drinking in the cafe, you can get some to brew at home. And for non-coffee drinkers, never fear, there’s delicious smoothies, juices, chai’s, matcha’s and a selection of chilled beverages.

On the food front, sourcing high-quality ingredients and supporting local is incredibly important and a strong focus to Black Betty; ingredients supplied by local egg farms, fisheries, butchers and artisan bakeries, the results speak for themselves. In the cabinet, you can choose from sandwiches, savoury options, slices, muffins and more. Or for something more substantial, opt for an item off their brunch menu. For those who have dietary requirements, Black Betty has plenty of dishes that take this into account. Don’t worry, there’s no wrong decision, as every plate leaving the kitchen will have your mouth-watering. There’s even a doggy menu for your fur babies!

It’s not hard to see why Black Betty is going strong after many years of operation: excellent coffee, plentiful food choices and a welcoming environment make for a winning formula.