Little Dove Cafe

Wholesome food and aromatic pastries inspired by the Levant—the eastern Mediterranean region encompassing Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and parts of Syria—might not be the first cuisine that comes to mind when thinking of Whakatū Nelson, but relative newcomer Little Dove Café has solidified its place as one of the best cafes in town. 

Occupying a charming white house on a corner just off the banks of the Maitai River, the pastry cabinet might lure you in, but the atmosphere will convince you to stay (and keep coming back). With walls in warm ochre—dotted with travel-inspired posters and hangings—and stylishly mismatched wooden furnishings, it's a cosy retreat from daily life. If the weather is nice, you can choose to dine outside and people-watch in the sun. 

If you only have time for a quick bite, order your coffee of choice (with beans from Revive Espresso) and a fluffy, poppy seed babka; a warm, za’atar-spiced cheese scone (arguably the best in Nelson); or perhaps a savoury, sesame-studded spiced lamb and pine nut bureka. People with dietary restrictions aren’t left out, either—the vegan date, tahini and oat cookies are decadently dense and moist, and the gluten-free Persian love cake is a rose-scented, heavenly bite. For a longer lunch, you can't go wrong with the Little Dove plate, which comes with thick slices of sourdough bread, sliced avocado, olives and other moreish spreads, and the shakshouka. Or check out the rotating seasonal specials on the blackboard. 

And if you want one of those indulgent cheese scones? Set your weekday alarm clock early, because they sell out fast!