Victus Coffee & Eatery

If you’re looking for colourful, fresh food and top-notch coffee, then Victus Coffee & Eatery—which occupies a bright, inviting space in the heart of Whakatū Nelson’s CBD—will be right up your alley, particularly if you’re looking for a space to park and work with a laptop for a few hours.

The Ozone Coffee pulled from the pale-pink La Marzocco espresso machine (Victus’ signature colour) anchors the drinks menu. The focus of espresso offerings is on consistency and quality, and the range of filter coffees changes weekly.  There’s a bottomless batch brew and speciality pour-over on request as well. To really see how preparation impacts flavour, order a Tasting Trio, which comes with a single-shot piccolo, single-shot espresso and a small glass of cold brew or filter—you’ll end up both buzzed and appreciative of the barista’s skill. Also, don’t forget to take a closer look at the vintage teaspoon accompanying your tray. 

The main food menu emphasises local ingredients, and the simple, well-executed preparation lets their flavour speak. The Japanese-inspired okonomiyaki waffle takes the traditional grilled cabbage “pancake” and transforms it for breakfast (or brunch), complete with Kewpie mayo and optional (but must-have!) toppings like bacon. The extra-hungry can go for the Full Victus, with eggs your way, sausage, bacon, beans, avocado and more. Most menu items can be made gluten-free or dairy-free on request. Meanwhile, the cabinet is stocked with a rotating assortment of sweets and savouries. If the buttermilk date scone is on offer, don’t think: just snag it. The menu is apt to change seasonally, so whenever you visit, you’re sure to find something fresh and new.