The Wholemeal Café

Arguably the town’s most recognisable eatery, The Wholemeal Café, is housed in the former Takaka Theatre that dates back to 1910. The current café space preserves the theatre’s high ceilings and sense of grandeur, with walls painted vibrant mustard, ochre and cobalt blue and decorated with larger-than-life photos of movie stars and vintage posters. The cafe extends through the entirety of the building, plus into a spacious deck outside, so you won’t lack for seating even when it’s at its busiest. 

No matter your dietary restriction or preference, there’s something for everyone between the vast cabinet offerings and menu, with items clearly labelled “vegetarian”, “gluten-free”, “dairy-free” and more. Snag a savoury pinwheel or halloumi-mushroom croissant or perhaps a decadent cheesecake or slice of cake, depending on your mood. Everything is made using local, organic ingredients for dishes that are both flavourful and satisfying. Until the end of the April school holidays, there’s even a little ice cream bar out front, swirling up cones of real fruit ice cream.

Special mention is also warranted for The Wholemeal Café’s unique coffee, a single-origin Arabica bean sourced from farmers in East Timor, especially for the café. The green beans are shipped to New Zealand and then roasted in Golden Bay. The result is a full-bodied roast that pairs perfectly with everything on the menu, whether you’re having it white or black.