Swimsuit








Monday7:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Tuesday7:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Wednesday7:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Thursday7:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Friday7:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Saturday9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Sunday9:30 am – 2:30 pm.
Renovated in just 19 days from its previous life as Memphis Belle, owner/operator Tait Burge had plenty of help from talented mates to turn Swimsuit into the soft, fresh, young hang-out café it is now, and describes it as a bit of a ‘community project’ at the time. Community is definitely the feel you get here too - expect to see people reading books, catching up on university goss, deep in newspapers in the outside area and all with impeccable coffee in hand. There’s a hint of retro about the place too, a polaroid camera sits on the front counter and customers are encouraged to add to the wall of snaps growing behind the baristas at work.
The name Swimsuit came from a poster the young entrepreneur saw on a poster near his South Coast home and works in with his ethos of moving away from any flashy stereotypes about premium coffee and instead making this café all about welcoming whoever walks through the door, whether they’re a coffee guru or not. But in saying that, if you are a guru, the Peoples Coffee that’s filling cups here is seriously good, and beans are also available to take home. For the hungry visitors there’s four types of scone, two versions of house-made baguettes and a meat or vegan toastie option to see you through the day.
Words by Rosie Morrison & Photography by Anna Briggs
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
38 Dixon Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Nearby Places
Glou Glou

Located inside Wellington’s iconic Exchange Building on Allen Street, Glou Glou is an upmarket casual cafe that is ultra sleek yet laid-back enough to warrant a daily...
Fred's

Wellington loves a little food bar and a small but punchy Cuba Street shop simply named Fred's might just be the hottest place in town to grab a sandwich.
Shelly Bay Baker on Leeds Street

When the call of carbs rings out loudly in Wellington, follow the scent of freshly baked bread down Leeds Street and through the door of Shelly Bay Baker.
Puffin

Welcome to Puffin, a “wine bar with a focus on organic and minimal intervention wines”.
Similar Places
Cicio Cacio

You might try Cicio Cacio before a gig next door but the food in itself is worth a quick 10-minute bus trip or Uber from the city.
Charley Noble

A favourite spot for nearby business people, don't be surprised to see Charley Noble buzzing with guests even early in the week right through from breakfast till dinnertime.
Zelati

From the texture to the rich, bright flavours, their range of sorbet and gelato offerings are impressive on the palate and pleasing to the eye.
Tartines French Cafe

A small slice of French culinary delight with handmade tarts, pastries, fresh bread and classic dishes that will have you mistaking Lower Hutt for Lyon.