Unknown Chapter

Cafes key icon.
Cafes key icon.

Monday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Tuesday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Wednesday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Thursday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Friday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Saturday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

Sunday6:30 am – 4:00 pm.

254 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

027 201 5996

The fresh, open, clean layout of Unknown Chapter undoubtedly takes some inspiration from the bike riding, coffee drinking, easy going attitudes of Amsterdam, where not surprisingly owner Jeremy has worked and lived for the last two years. Roasting coffee beans for a job, and previously owning a café in Queenstown, means he has all the knowledge and experience to make this a further success story.

Floor length windows running both sides of the space mean the café is not lacking in rich natural light, and a big old beautiful coffee roaster sits gleaming in the front window, a project the café looks set on starting soon. Seats tucked beneath a bench against the wide windows make a perfect spot for checking out passersby, while a mini outdoor area on the opposite side is a cosy nook for sunny days. Mismatched plants and glowing bulbs hang from the industrial-style ceiling, bringing some colour and warmth to the otherwise expansive area.

An old-school style selection of chairs will have you nostalgic for days in the classroom, and booths lining the back walls will be all the encouragement you need to get comfy and order another round of coffee.

Wholesome salads, quiches, frittatas and creative sandwiches stack the cabinet, making lunchtimes quick and easy for office day commuters looking for food on the run, while cakes, slices and scones provide easy options for the afternoon sweet treat. A small but well thought out menu offers brunch style fare, with an emphasis on free-range produce and creative new takes on classics. (Think omelet with asparagus, goats cheese and prosciutto.) Coffee beans are roasted under the brand's label, off site.

Friendly, casually cool staff behind the counter make churning out the coffees look easy, and the relaxed, non-pretentious vibe sees customers ranging from busy businessmen to high-vis contractors.

Words by Tahlia Vogel & Photography by Naomi Haussmann

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

254 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

Nearby Places

RUBY Christchurch

Colourful laptop sleeves and hair claws at Ruby clothing store in Central Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Fashion key icon.

Timeless, beautiful and instantly recognisable, Ruby is one of New Zealand’s favourite brands.

The Juniper Collective

Close up of Awildan gin on top of a barrel at The Juniper Collective, Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury

The Juniper Collective on Cashel Street is a beacon for Aotearoa gin.

Francesca's Italian Kitchen Christchurch

A chef working the kitchen at the back of a large restaurant.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Restaurants key icon.

A big ol’ slice of authentic, rustic Italian cuisine in the heart of Christchurch.

Paddy McNaughton's

Exterior of Paddy McNaughton's, Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon.

Paddy McNaughton's is a pint-sized pub with Guinness and Magners on tap. It’s the closest thing to a Dublin pub this side of the equator. Live music every week.

Similar Places

Frances Nation Café

Shelves lined with pantry goods inside a cafe.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon. Goods key icon.

Frances Nation Café is a go-to in Christchurch for superb coffee and delicious food.

The Church Pub

The busy bar inside The Church Pub.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Restaurants key icon.

The Church on the corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets in the heart of the city is a cornerstone of Christchurch hospitality.

Inati

A hand spoons a garnish onto a dish on a wooden board.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Restaurants key icon.

Prepare to be wowed by the thoughtful and beautifully executed Inati.

Pilgrim

Exterior view of Pilgrim in Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon.

A tenacious stand alone espresso bar and café, Pilgrim has become a central city favourite amongst its regulars and central city workers that come and go for the...