Tartines French Cafe

Bringing a small slice of French culinary delight to the Hutt is Tartines, a popular cafe and deli located in the heart of Eastbourne village. Owned and operated by Camille (from the Rhône Valley) and her business partner Laurent (head chef, another French native), Tartine’s menu is designed to be authentic, featuring all their favourite treats from childhood and their memories of enjoying homemade pastries and visiting cafes in France. 

It took eight years of Camille working in New Zealand, slowly growing to miss the French hospitality and gastronomy she knew so well, before she made the decision to open her own place. Eastbourne was a natural choice of location, as it reminded her of the quaint villages and communities back home. Pairing with Laurent yet again (after 7 years working side-by-side at Hippopotamus in Wellington’s QT Hotel and together winning the 2015 world title in Sri Lanka for Dilmah’s Best High Tea), the duo have gone on to grow Tartines, a successful cafe, pâtisserie and deli. 

Tartines boasts a beautiful and sunny conservatory, which always manages to feel warm and inviting. It’s not difficult to imagine that you’ve been whisked away to France — the aroma of fresh bread, the deli shelves laden with chutneys, preserves and oils and the delectable cabinet overflowing with delicately made tarts and pastries. And of course, the courtyard. It’s paved, spacious and has plenty of nooks and crannies. It’s both lively and ambient, yet still endows a feeling of tranquillity. Table service is provided with a smile and no request feels like too much. 

There’s a wide assortment of traditional French dishes on the menu, catering for breakfast, lunch and the occasional dinner. Notable classics include the French onion soup, beef bourguignon, crêpes and galettes. Each dish is handsomely presented, clearly made with love and plenty of technical expertise. Tartine’s is also licensed, so go right ahead and pair a wine with your meal. Most, but certainly not all, are of French origin. 

For those wanting to add French cooking to their own repertoire, Laurent runs monthly classes which are intimate, fun and include canapés and wine on arrival. Bookings are essential, so check online for more details. And if you want to savour more of Tartines goodies later on, check out their ready-made meals and frozen pastries to-go.