Palmerston North: NZ's Underrated Coffee Capital

Move over, Wellington - Palmerston North is quietly but confidently building its case as an alternative coffee capital.
Words by: John Son
Photos by: Anna Briggs
The heart of the Manawatū and home to one of the country’s most attractive parks, Palmerston North has nonetheless kept a fairly low profile as a food and beverage destination. That perception might slowly but surely be changing, though - with a growing collection of superb cafes and coffee spots, Palmy’s reputation among coffee aficionados is only growing stronger by the day. From quirky-themed cafes and charismatic bohemian spots to convenient coffee carts, here’s where to stop for your coffee fix in Palmerston North.
Mouthwater Coffee Company
Various locations
Wander around the city centre, and you’re bound to stumble across one of the three Mouthwater coffee carts. The unmissable red carts are the brainchild of Andrew Feldon, a coffee hero who has turned his passion and know-how of all things coffee into a beloved local brand. What the carts lack in size, they more than makeup for with fantastic coffee, delicious snacks to go and quality conversation (and dad jokes).
Ebony Coffee Roasters
208 Featherston Street, Palmerston North Central
Part cafe, part specialty retail store, Ebony is a one-stop shop for any and every coffee need. As you wait for your coffee you can peruse the shelves of drip kettles, Chemexes, cold brew setups, and other brewing equipment, as well as watch the in-house roastery hard at work. Want to get even closer to the action? Sign up for a class at Ebony’s barista training school, which is held just down the road.
Arrosta Coffee Roasting Co.
42 Victoria Avenue, Palmerston North Central
Smack-bang in the heart of the city centre lies the flagship cafe of Arrosta, a revered local name that supplies beans to scores of cafes and other outlets around Palmerston North. In addition to your favourite coffees, you’ll find a fantastic selection of slices and other treats to tuck into. There’s even a functional roastery on-site, as well as a range of wholesale beans and brewing gear and accessories available to buy.
Sublime Coffee Roasters
203 Cuba Street, Palmerston North Central
Originally hailing from Nelson, Sublime Coffee Roasters has carved out a little slice of the North Island to call home – and Palmerston North locals couldn’t be more grateful. A small, lean operation based out of a fresh and funky building on Cuba Street, Sublime keeps its core offerings tight and focused: fantastic coffee, a handful of slices and small bites, plus outstanding customer service to top it all off.
Joseph Street Kitchen
55A Joseph Street, West End
On this quiet residential street lies a building swathed in vines, sticking out like a sore thumb and indicating the left-field vibes within. A stone’s throw from the city centre, Joseph Street Kitchen is a rustic, bohemian cafe that feels like a real hidden oasis. Great coffee is matched with an extensive food menu, making it a versatile spot for a quick meal on the go or a long lunch. Dogs are welcome, too, with plenty of outside seating to catch the sun.
Coffee on Ascot
35 Ascot Street, Hokowhitu
Coffee on Ascot is a light, bright, and airy neighbourhood cafe that’s a perfect place to drop by for a quality coffee away from the crowds. Try the famous superfood lattes (think velvet and mushroom lattes), as well as the allergy-friendly raw slices and home-baked snacks. With a selection of large communal tables and outdoor seating, it’s one of the most warm and welcoming cafes in town.
Cafe Cuba
236 Cuba Street, Palmerston North Central
A homely yet spacious eatery, Cafe Cuba is a local institution that has something for everyone. While a cafe by nature, the food here does a stellar job of pulling in the crowds, thanks in no small part to the substantial cabinet filled with slices and cakes. Choose from peppermint, custard, fudge, or a whole swathe of other slices, or the renowned chocolate mud or carrot cake. There are plenty of savoury options too, for those looking for a hearty brunch.
Neat Palmerston North Places
Cameron Jewellery

Whether you have a specific piece in mind or simply appreciate handmade beauty, be sure to visit Cameron Jewellery whilst in Palmerston North.
LOCAL Café and Eatery

LOCAL Café and Eatery truly lives up to its name. After several years of successful trading, the spot has earned a solid regular following who love the café’s colourful plates, locally sourced ingredients, homemade baked goods, coffees and tipples.
Victoria Esplanade

Great cities around the world have at least one thing in common… they have preserved and prioritised green spaces.
Te Manawa

Te Manawa is the place to start if you’re looking to hit the ground running when it comes to getting acquainted with Palmerston North and the greater Manawatū. But we’re not just talking about historical context, Te Manawa is a museum of art, science and heritage.
HARU Japanese Restaurant

A calming central city spot for top quality Japanese fare. At Haru Japanese Restaurant you’ll be quickly greeted and seated by the friendly staff. Order some warm green or yuzu tea and explore the menu which is varied but not overwhelming.