Caffe Mode

Provided there are no cigarette smokers camped outside in the outdoor tables of this lovely café (which can quickly overwhelm the senses inside), this is the nicest place in Kelburn to sit and have a flat white or whatever caffeinated beverage you choose. There is a languid, wood-furnished feel to this place that’s relaxing and comfortable, and the service is very friendly. They have the requisite sandwiches and salads on offer, but this would not be where I come for a lunch. Their strength is in satisfying your drink needs. A breakfast muffin shared by my wife and I was very tasty, though, so this is a great pitstop on our morning walk.

I've had to update my review Things have changed dramatically at Mode over the last five years. Best coffee in Kelburn by far - not anymore. IDK if the baristas are trained properly. In the least the coffee is very inconsistent. Great food - not anymore. The menu has shrunk considerably. The quality of food (ingredients) as well as the preparation has gone downhill. Suffice it to say I won't eat here anymore. For a quick coffee and scone it's an OK cafe but there are better options in Kelburn.

Really fell in love with this place over the weekend. Such a relaxed welcoming atmosphere, non-pretentious vibe, friendly happy staff, good coffee and brunch was excellent. Ordered the Ratatouille with sourdough and the Kedgeree. Both were spot on and not much wait time considering how busy it was. Really nice window seat for groups with a leafy green outlook. Already looking forward to my next visit!

New review: Glad it’s reopened. This was my regular back in the day. The food is really good and the coffee is really good. The music was average as though it’s teenage pop for the staff as opposed to the customers (now the Prefab cafe playlist or Seashore Cabaret have good music), the actual staff are nice and friendly… … exxxxxxxxcept the old micro managery / ownery dude that stands around talking at his staff getting inbetween them and us customers. Hopefully he levels up, gets out of the way and let’s the team work it’s magic. On that basis the atmosphere gets three not five stars. Will revisit in a couple of weeks. Old owners: Caffe Mode tickles my fancy. It’s my favourite local. Great peeps. Really good coffee (Havana). RIP old cafe mode - really enjoyed the banter and miss you guys :)