If you’re vegan, vegan-curious, or just love good food, Dainty Café in Ōtautahi, Christchurch is a must-visit. Located on Manchester Street at the base of The Muse Art Hotel, it’s a place that you could easily walk right past without realising the treasure trove of vegan-friendly options inside!
While Dainty isn’t fully vegan, their vegan options are extensive, and each dish is crafted with such care and flavour that you’ll wonder how they make simple ingredients taste so amazing.
The Vegan Options
Scrambled Tofu on Toast
This is, hands-down, my favourite dish at Dainty. Their scrambled tofu is miles away from anything I’ve ever managed to whip up at home! It’s rich in flavour, beautifully seasoned, and just the right texture. This dish is so new it’s not on the menu yet, but if you ask, they’ll make it fresh for you.
Granola
Dainty’s granola is far from the boring, “nothing-else-to-order” option. This bowl is a total flavor explosion, with oats, almonds, figs, toasted coconut, and creamy vegan yogurt. It’s a breakfast that’s both satisfying and deliciously memorable.
Pancakes
These are hands-down the best vegan pancakes I’ve ever had! Fluffy, light, and topped with chocolate and freeze-dried berries - Dainty has nailed the perfect pancake. You’ll want to savour every bite. I tried these with a friend, and it was hard not to fight over who was going to get the last slither!
Avo and Carrot Lox Bagel
Fresh bagel, creamy avocado, and Grater Goods’ carrot lox (a vegan take on smoked salmon). Healthy, filling, and incredibly satisfying - this could easily become a daily ritual.
Smashed Avo on Toast
Simple but brilliant. Thick, wholegrain bread piled high with smashed avocado and topped with that Grater Goods carrot lox. It’s a classic done right, with just the right balance of flavors.
Smoothies
I’ve tried both the Mixed Berries and Green Crush smoothies, and they were fantastic! Not the super-filling kind, but perfect for sipping alongside a meal. If you’re like me and eat A LOT, you can easily pair one with your breakfast or lunch for an extra boost of deliciousness!
The Vibe and People
The vibe at Dainty is just as inviting as the food. The café is bright, open and welcoming -- the kind of place you just want to hang out in. But what really makes Dainty special is the staff. The owner and head barista, Nick, is clearly the heart and soul of the place. He comes from a long line of café connoisseurs, so creating a friendly, inviting atmosphere seems to come naturally to him.
Bonus: A Staycation Breakfast Spot
Since Dainty is connected to The Muse Art Hotel, if you’re visiting Christchurch, you can stay at the hotel and treat yourself to a delicious vegan breakfast right downstairs. It’s the perfect start to a day of exploring the city!
Final Thoughts
Dainty Café has definitely earned a spot in my regular rotation. The food is fresh, the staff are lovely, and the experience is an easy pleasure. Now that I’ve tasted their scrambled tofu, I don’t think I can go back to making it myself!
If you’re in town, make sure to stop by - Dainty is a vegan-friendly gem worth discovering.
Find Other Vegan-Friendly Eateries
Dainty Café is listed on the Fussy Vegan Pro app, a fantastic resource for finding vegan-friendly cafés, restaurants, and eateries not just in Christchurch but throughout New Zealand! Download the app to discover more vegan gems like Dainty across the country.
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