Laneway Espresso

329 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
+64 210 283 4714
$$$ Cafe
(280 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Welcome to Laneway Espresso, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Christchurch Central City. Located at 329 Durham Street North, this cozy café is a delightful retreat for both locals and visitors alike, inviting you to experience a warm ambiance filled with the rich aromas of freshly brewed coffee and the mouthwatering scent of baked goods.

Laneway Espresso is known for its vibrant and inviting atmosphere, which is enhanced by charming decor featuring lush plants, creating a relaxing cocoon for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot to enjoy your morning cup of joe or a lively place to catch up with friends, Laneway has you covered.

The menu is a delightful medley of flavors that cater to every palate. Start your day with something extra, like their decadent Bacon with Tomato and Hollandaise or the hearty Potato Hash with Grilled Halloumi. Each dish bursts with freshness and is meticulously crafted to comfort and satisfy. Customers rave about the Ham and Cheese Scroll—an early morning favorite that has become part of many a routine—and the enchanting Cinnamon Scroll which offers a sweet finish to any meal.

For those looking for lighter bites or sweet treats, you cannot miss their infamous Blueberry Muffins, described as “the best ever” by one delighted patron. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Spiced Turmeric Smoothie or the refreshing Iced Latte, both of which perfectly complement the café's sunny vibe.

Your experience at Laneway Espresso is made even better by the friendly and accommodating staff who are dedicated to ensuring every guest feels right at home. Jenny Han captures this perfectly with her review, claiming, “Great food and coffee! Nice staff and a lovely dining environment.” You will feel the care and passion that goes into each cup and plate, echoing Shelby Shearer-Sonier’s sentiment about the top-notch service that keeps guests coming back.

Beyond just food and drink, Laneway Espresso offers a sense of community. Many regulars, like Quinnie Peñaflor, have made it part of their daily ritual— a moment of indulgence and serenity before the day begins. If you're in Christchurch, make sure to stop by and immerse yourself in this delightful café that celebrates the art of good coffee and quality food.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

6:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Tuesday

6:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday

6:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Thursday

6:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Friday

6:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Sunday

7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

280 Reviews
Jenny Han

22 Sep 2025

Great great great food and coffee! Nice staff and lovely dining environment

Shelby Shearer-Sonier

14 Sep 2025

One of the best cheese scones I’ve ever had - straight out of the oven and absolutely delicious. The bacon and pesto scroll was also super tasty. Service was 10/10. Will definitely be back next time we are in Christchurch.

Quintin Spark

13 Sep 2025

Best Blueberry Muffins Ever ...Massive and loaded with berries.. Mocca was also

Quinnie Peñaflor

13 Aug 2025

Always there every morning before my class starts. Its like my little routine and reward before starting the day. Love the food, especially the ham n cheese scroll! The vibe of the cafe is very warm and cozy. Service is good, very friendly and accommodating staff! Was there yesterday again with a friend, he loved it as well.

Kate Hennessy

10 Aug 2025

Lovely little cafe with cool plants for decor. The cinnamon scroll here is my favorite and I recently tried the stuffed cheese scone which was topped with pumpkin, potato, capsicum, etc. It was yummy. The coffee is also good here highly recommend this place.

Ashley white

24 Jun 2025

Really lovely staff, I had the bacon buttie with crispy bacon and soft bread - perfect the second visit I had the porridge with stewed apple - also delicious. I can be a bit fussy, as a can my step daughter and daughter, but we were all very satisfied. Highly recommend and will be back next time we visit Christchurch

Candice Olwage-Waloejo

23 Jun 2025

A beautiful open plan café that does not cover you in decorations to the point you feel closed in. The service was impeccable as we were greeted warmly and had a little chat too. Toilets are clean too, and the food and coffee are top of the line! FYI if you have a child who loves chop chip cookies, then you have to try theirs because I have never had one so mouthwatering and left me begging for more.

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