dainty

Discerning coffee drinkers and brunch lovers Dainty will quickly become your home away from home. Located on Manchester Street at the base of The Muse Art Hotel, Dainty has garnered a stellar reputation around the ‘03 since opening at the beginning of 2024. From going viral on TikTok and Instagram with their specialty seasonal drinks to nailing the perfect cup of coffee to creating dishes that would not be out of place on a New York or Melbourne brunch menu, Dainty lives up to the hype and more. 

Walking into the cafe you are captured by the interior decor, with bright white walls adorned with dried florals, an old-school letterboard drinks menu by the counter and a cabinet laden with treats. If you get your timing right you might be able to nab a table with the tan leather sofa chairs, otherwise, there are plenty of other tables and bar stools to perch on. 

The hospitality pedigree behind Dainty nods to Christchurch’s past, owner Nick Sepie grew up in his parents’ cafes and his grandfather owned the famous Dainty Inn milkbar for over 30 years. Nick lived and worked in the UK and did stints at both Allpress and Underground Coffee Roasters before leaping at the opportunity to open his own spot. Dainty is a culmination of all Nick has learned over the years and he is passionate about the science behind coffee, working closely with the team at Embassy Coffee who supply their beans.

If you’re a filter coffee fan you’re in luck, at Dainty they always have single-origin beans that are specifically for filter and they take their time to ensure you get an excellent brew. Non-coffee drinkers never fear, there are plenty of options for you, such as Mikaku teas, smoothies and delicious iced drinks. On the food front, bring your appetite to Dainty, their brunch menu is epic with their unique twist added to classic dishes. In the cabinet, there’s always a selection of Grizzly pastries for those with a sweet tooth or some sammies and salads to grab and go for lunch on the run.   

Whether you are popping in for a quick takeaway or a more leisurely catch-up with friends, Dainty will not disappoint. Their friendly service, cracking coffees and delicious food will have you coming back time and time again.