Mr Clifton's

There are several places you can grab your daily brew in Gisborne, but few serve just coffee – and serve it as spectacularly as Mr Clifton’s. Opened in 2020 by Steve King, Jo Pepuere and Scott Bowering the crew behind local coffee roaster Far East Coffee Co, it’s not surprising the coffee rules here.

This swish specialty coffee shop can be found in the heart of the town, brewing non-stop from 6.30am until 2pm every weekday. Sticking to the philosophy of ‘do one thing and do it well’, you won’t find much beyond a really great cup of joe, although a jar of chewy stroopwafels and bars of Whittaker’s sit at the ready for those needing an extra pick-me-up. Wondering why there’s a couple of dice on the counter? We’re so glad you asked. Roll double sixes and your coffee is on the house. 

Mr Clifton’s recently moved a few doors down, taking some of the fitout with them while mixing in a few fresh additions. Our favourite feature? The speckled statement wall. Not only is it pretty to look at, it’s made from 4,400 milk cartons and 11,000 pieces of soft plastic which would’ve otherwise ended up in landfill. Four repurposed bus seats lined up against the leafy green wall fill with chatty locals in the morning and the yellow Bavarian beer garden table provides a nice communal spot to sip your coffee and wait for the buzz to kick in.

Dividing the room is a tall shelf filled with coffee paraphernalia, including bags of Far East Coffee Co beans, paper filters, AeroPress, and unique reusable cups made by local ceramist Polly (there’s only takeaway cups at Mr Clifton’s so it’s a good idea to grab one of Polly’s or BYO).