Unknown Chapter
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.
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
Recycle Boutique Christchurch
Recycle Boutique challenges the status quo as one part designer boutique, one part second hand shop and one part sustainable shopping option.
OGB
A speakeasy-style bar, OGB serves up an old-school approach to hospitality.
Sweet Soul Patisserie
Step in through the floor-to-ceiling glass doors of Sweet Soul Patisserie, and you will immediately be greeted with an air of amicable sophistication.
PLUME
Makes a strong case for the enduring value of a bespoke and compelling retail experience.
Similar Places
Estelle
A sophisticated sibling to Tom’s sandwich bar on Christchurch's Southwark Street, Estelle sits neatly just a few strides and a diagonal road crossing away in a space...
Mind Your Temper
If you’re feeling grumpy or a little blue, a visit to Mind Your Temper is sure to lighten your mood.
Downstairs Bar
What do you get when you marry the cosy vibes of an intimate pub with the sophistication of an inner city wine bar? You end up with the best of both worlds and the result is Downstairs on New Regent Street.
General Post
You’ll find a few golden nuggets interspersed around Tai Tapu, and General Post is one of them.