What Makes a Café or Restaurant a Great Place to Be?

We all have that one café or restaurant we keep going back to—a place where we feel at home, where time seems to slow down, and where we can savor more than just the food. But what exactly makes a café or restaurant a great place to be?

Ambiance and Atmosphere

The atmosphere is often the first thing that draws us into a café or restaurant. Whether it's a cozy corner café with rustic wooden tables and a crackling fireplace or a modern eatery with sleek décor and vibrant energy, the ambiance sets the tone for our experience. A well-designed space can evoke a sense of comfort, excitement, or even nostalgia, making it a place where we want to linger

The Chocolate Fish - Shelly Bay, Wellington

Warm and Welcoming Service

Homewood Storeroom

Great service goes beyond just taking orders and delivering food. It’s about making guests feel valued and cared for. A warm smile, attentive staff, and personalized touches—like remembering your favorite drink—can turn a good experience into a memorable one. It’s this human connection that often makes us return, as we feel like more than just customers—we feel like friends.

Quality of Food and Drinks

Of course, the quality of the food and drinks plays a crucial role. Whether it’s a perfectly brewed coffee, a freshly baked croissant, or a delicious meal made with locally sourced ingredients, the flavors should leave you satisfied and eager for more. A great café or restaurant doesn’t just fill your stomach; it delights your taste buds and enriches your senses.

The Little Details

As an artist, I find joy in the little details—the way the light filters through the windows, the texture of the napkins, or the art hanging on the walls. These small touches contribute to the overall experience, creating an environment that feels thoughtfully curated and inviting. It’s these details that often make a place feel special and unique.

A Sense of Community

A café or restaurant becomes a beloved spot when it fosters a sense of community. Whether it’s through hosting local events, showcasing art from local creators, or simply being a place where people gather to connect, these establishments become more than just places to eat—they become integral parts of the neighbourhood’s fabric.

Our Favorite Spots

For those of you in New Zealand, especially if you’re in the Wellington region, our favorite restaurant is Tirohana Estate in Martinborough. For us, it ticks all the boxes—great ambiance, welcoming service, and fantastic food. They are also more than willing to help you celebrate that special occasion, making it an ideal spot for those memorable moments.  They also have a great Mid Winter Christmas celebration and it’s the place to be to see the the New Year in with live music.

As for our favorite cafés, we have a couple of them! If you’re traveling through to Hawke's Bay from Wellington there’s a lovely little café in Upper Norsewood that we adore and be sure to stop by the Paper Mulberry,  Pukehou, another gem we love to visit.

The Paper Mulberry

In the Wairarapa region there is The Land Girl, Pirinoa, Homewood Storeroom, Riversdale.   These are both out of the way but well worth the visit.  Clareville Bakery in Carterton is another lovely place, but it’s not open on a Sunday

In the Wellington region, we enjoy The Chocolate Fish, and the cafes in Palmers Garden centres, when we get the chance.

A great café or restaurant is one where all these elements come together harmoniously. It’s a place that feels like an extension of yourself, where you can relax, enjoy good food, and feel connected to the world around you. What’s your favorite café, and what makes it special to you?