Flagship Eatery

This contemporary cafe could be easily stealing the show in any big city across the globe – but it’s quite happy to be stealing the hearts of locals right here in Gisborne. Behind a chirpy red-orange door on Childers Road, Flagship Eatery is one of the town’s favourite places to wake up over coffee and breakfast, or linger for leisurely lunches.

Its secret is in its simplicity, with all attention on whole foods and locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. It’s the personal Flagship touch that turns an everyday cafe experience into something extraordinary. From the brioche and bagels to the kimchi and hollandaise, almost all of the baked goods and pantry items have been whipped up onsite. The talented kitchen crew also enlists the help of local producers Knock Knock Organics, Makaraka Veges and Waimata Cheese to give each dish an extra dose of Gizzy flair. Glasses and cups are filled with Flight Coffee, Hill Road OJ from down the road, cocktails with house-made shrubs and dried garnishes, as well as a list of local wines and beer. Are you picking up on the theme here?

Owner Tessa gave the place a bit of a facelift in 2018, with the help of her sister’s interior design expertise. The fitout is warm and modern with a soothing peachy pink and leafy green colour palette complemented by soft textures and natural materials. The spacious and relaxed atmosphere makes it the sort of foodie destination to take grandparents and toddlers, friends and colleagues, or your favourite book (the seat by the arched windows is a peaceful spot to read while the gentle morning sun floods in). 

Oh, and need a dish recommendation? Try the Vietnamese rice pancake – it’s been around since day one for a reason.