Kind Wish Cafe

86A Upland Road, Kelburn, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
$$$ Cafe
(53 Reviews)
Price Range $10–30

Kind Wish Cafe, tucked away on Upland Road in Kelburn, is a compact yet lively spot where locals drift in for their morning coffee and weekend catch-ups. Its modest size belies the energy inside — a gentle buzz makes it feel like a hub for the neighbourhood’s early risers and casual brunch seekers. The cafe’s interior is bright and clean, with enough cozy window seats that lend themselves well to people-watching or lingering over a long conversation.

The menu is straightforward but thoughtful, catering especially to those who appreciate solid, well-prepared breakfast and lunch staples. The English Breakfast is hearty and well-rounded, popular for those wanting a classic start with all the essentials lined up on one plate. For something a bit more casual or playful, the Philly Cheesesteak sandwich stands out with its tender ribeye and tangy pickled peppers, making for a satisfying midday bite. Vegetarians have options too, like the vege breakfast, though some guests have noted that the bread can occasionally feel a little dry — a small note of preference in an otherwise reliable menu.

Coffee here is clearly a focus, with several locals pointing out the expertise behind each cup — the mocha in particular receives high praise. You can expect baristas who are both skilled and engaging, bringing a touch of personable charm to your visit, making it a place where friendly banter feels natural rather than forced.

Kind Wish fits smoothly into Kelburn’s village vibe: it’s not just a stop for fuel but a spot that encourages slowing down and soaking in the atmosphere. Its mix of regulars and visitors creates a vibe somewhere between relaxed and buzzy, especially in the morning hours and weekends. Whether you're popping in for a quick bacon buttie or settling in with waffles and coffee for a longer, laid-back meal, this cafe rewards those looking for uncomplicated, honest food paired with the kind of community warmth that feels typical of this Wellington suburb.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
What they serve
Coffee
Organic dishes
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 03:30 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 03:30 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 03:30 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 03:30 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

53 Reviews
Anjali Bhat

31 Dec 2025

Quaint buzzing cafe. Don’t be misled by the size, it packs quite a punch. Soak in the local ambiance for your early morning breakfast and cuppa.

Coco Sargent

30 Dec 2025

Ordered the waffles and crinkle chip, best meal I’ve had in months! Great coffee you can tell they really know their stuff, lovely staff, beautiful smiles! Tom was so helpful and witty! I will be back very soon

Meg Guthrie

22 Dec 2025

Really lovely cafe, super good food and the staff were lovely, great place to sit for a catch up the window seats are super cute!

Michael D. Dutton

16 Dec 2025

The cafe has had many iterations over the years, but it’s finally beautifully clean and vibrant inside. I’m glad this cafe fits the Kelburn vibe, as you are greeted and can have a good chin wag with the folks working there.

katinka frizel

09 Oct 2025

Cute little cafe. My vege breakfast was really nice, a little disappointed about the bread that was a bit dry (but that’s my own personal taste I guess). The mocha was perfect!

Andrew Fowkes

03 Oct 2025

A lovely little coffee shop nestled in Kelburn village. The best flat white in the neighbourhood. The pastries look great too but I live too close to eat there. Friendly staff and the coffee is consistently good whoever makes it. Bold, smooth and just the perfect temperature (60degrees). I must try the chilli scram before we leave the village.

L P

12 Sep 2025

so cute, kinda staff and yummy pumpkin soup! Wellington prices but that’s to be expected these days in kelburn. I will come back

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