Barista — Restaurant in Palmerston North

Barista Café – Where Breakfast Becomes a Love Story If there were a way to bottle comfort, warmth, and culinary delight into one glorious morning outing, Barista would be it. Nestled in the heart of Palmerston North, this café doesn’t try to be anything—it simply is everything. The space is welcoming and unpretentious, with just the right balance of bustle and calm. Whether you're coming for a quiet moment or a gathering of friends or colleagues, it holds you gently—like it somehow knew you needed it. The food? Divine. Every bite is a love letter written by someone who actually cares. The Vege Breakfast is a standout masterpiece—haloumi that sings, avocado that’s delicious, poached eggs like golden wishes, and toast that feels like home. The cabinet food is no afterthought. It’s a curated gallery of edible joy, with Florentines that deserve their own fan club. Sweet, buttery, nutty, gingerly brilliance — the kind of thing you swear you’ll only have half of, then sit silently chewing the second before you realise you’ve already eaten it all. Staff? Effortless excellence. Present, kind, and just the right level of relaxed. Ambience? Soft chatter, good coffee, and the steady rhythm of people being human—well-fed, well-met, and gently restored. It’s not just a café. It’s a pause button for life. And for someone who rarely makes it out due to health, this was no small joy. This was nourishment for the soul. Thank you, Barista. We’ll be back—again and again.

Reply to Owner:

You’ve just made our day all over again — thank you so much for that beautiful response.

We could feel the love in every bite, and it’s no surprise to learn that your team pours their hearts into the food and the space. That warmth comes through in every detail — right down to the perfectly poached egg (still thinking about it, if we’re honest).

We’re already looking forward to our next visit. Thank you for making us feel so welcome, so cared for… and yes, we’ll be claiming that Florentine with pride!

With heartfelt thanks, —Me (and my...

Restaurant has a really nice ambience and the food was great!

I ordered the BBQ chicken linguine which was delicious! It was Advertised as a light meal but I struggled to finish it as the serving was rather large. I'm pretty sure it was the same size (if not bigger) than my husbands "main" meal!

My husband ordered the confit duck which was cooked to absolute perfection! You could tell this cut of meat had been well respected and love put in to it. It just melted in your mouth.

We ordered a couple of drinks off menu, which I expected to be exorbitant because they're off the menu) but was thoroughly surprised at how reasonable they were. I ordered a couple of organic ciders (the only type of cider they stock). The cider was at least 500ml(if not more) from memory and was $9.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, but a few small criticisms.

Our server was very nice and friendly, but maybe too attentive? I could barely sip my water before it was what seemed instantly refilled. Service is important, but it was awkward having some walk in mid convo.

We were seated between two other tables with larger groups which made it difficult to hear. The restaurant wasn't busy and had about six tables seated, but all on one side rather than being spread out.

All in all was a good time with lovely food, my criticisms are only small and constructive. Would 10/10...

I had heard good things about this place before going. When I went today I was greeted by friendly staff at FIRST. After we ordered some beverages we waited for some time for them to be brought to us. When some of our drinks came a rude staff member who looked in his mid 40's with no hair on the top and a receding hairline delivered our drinks. He put one of the drinks down and asked where the other one was to go 2 people said loudly and clearly 'over there' while politely pointing to the other side of the table. I was on the far side of them on the table and heard them clearly. The middle aged man snapped at us 'Speak up next time so I can hear you', in the most rude, childish voice. Looking at it now he was probably going through a mid life crisis and needed hearing aids. This showing of customer service was egregious and he brought down the whole mood of the table. All the other waiters were very kind but this deaf old man made the cafe look worse then it really is. I will definitely go to cafe Cuba next time. Overall my experience at barista was not as good as I would have expected judging by my time at...