The Federal Store

Delightfully playful, The Federal Store in New Plymouth will impress any café lover who swings by. Whether you’re a local or out-of-towner, the place aims to please - you can expect a full-blown charm offensive from beginning to end. 

Located in the popular neighbourhood of Strandon, The Federal Store is just a hop, skip and jump from nearby Fitzroy Beach (and a short trip from the town centre). The interior is retro Kiwiana.  A colourful mural of a vintage tip-top ad has been skillfully painted across a wall, bunting dangles from the ceiling and retro chairs and tables fill out the space -  like a 1950s hang-out permeating good times. Owners Jeremy and Susan, have always wanted The Federal Store to be a place where people feel welcome, and they’ve certainly achieved that.  

Peering into their loaded counter is where the salivating starts, and where you’ll see a bevy of delicious homemade treats to gawp at. Everything from baos to bagels, salads to slices, cakes and croissants, the list could go on and on. But that’s not all. They have a menu you can order from too, featuring bigger plates like savoury french toast with krispy fried chicken and chipotle aioli or their double patty cheeseburger dubbed The Royale. Coffee fans will be rewarded with the café’s own signature blend "The Fed' made with help from local roasters, Ozone. 

We love the big tables out on the street front cajoling you to watch people and the world go by. Everything about this place is excellent. Repeat visits will be necessary.