Tsan Apparel didn’t just fall out of a coconut tree – it was inspired by its founders history and current home, the latter being New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.
Wellington is renowned for a number of things – it’s film industry, seat of government, hilly terrain and relentless wind. However, one of its greatest charms, and what inspired much of Tsan Apparel’s leisurely, yet sophisticated, style is its tremendous café culture. Wellingtonians love nothing more than to catch-up with friends, hold meetings, work and study, and hangout in its hundreds of cafes – not bad for a small, infamously compact.
To get a feel for what Tsan Apparel is all about, we encourage you to visit Wellington and to check out some of it’s grooviest hospitality hot spots for your caffeinated beverage of choice.
Pour and Twist
@pourandtwist
This small café proudly boasts itself as the “first manual only coffee bar in New Zealand” and comfortably declares that no, your regular espresso order isn’t here – however we might just have something even better, and they do! If you’re lucky enough to grab a seat amongst the hustle and bustle, their menu includes unusual coffee delights including Asian influenced flavours like creamy black sesame, matcha and taro infused concoctions.
With so many rare and unique flavours compared to the mainstream NZ coffee scene, you’d be hard-pressed not to find something new and delicious.
Customs
@customsbrews
Another tiny little nook consistently overflowing with diehard customers, Customs knows what it does and it does it well. Perfect espresso every time and an array of delicious toast options, with seasonal varieties ranging from smashed pea, egg salad, and avocado. Additionally a range of tasty sandwiches in high quality bread, they don’t skimp on ingredients or quality which is why Customs has the reputation as one of Wellington’s best hidden-in-plainsight-gems.
Cosily sit inside against the window people watching, snuggle into the back booth or enjoy the sunshine sitting outside, this micro marvel manages to appease all no matter what they want.
Caffe L’affare
@laffare
Caffe L’affare is a legendary coffee roastery and daytime eatery known by just about all Wellingtonians. If not for the fantastic café offerings, then for its well beloved roast coffee beans sold in supermarkets across the country. The reputation for L’affare coffee beans is rightfully sky high and the beans are sold whole, espresso grind or French press, there’s something for everyone.
Caffe L’affare presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy some the best espresso in town paired with some of the best New Zealand breakfast and lunch favourites, elegantly prepared and served. It’s a big café that tends to be consistently busy and beloved city-wide. It’s longevity is a testament to its quality and can be the perfect hideaway spot for a meal and drinks, especially when the Wellington wind is just that bit too pesky.
Swimsuit
@swimsuitcoffee
Swimsuit emerged in the same place from a formerly beloved coffee shop, Memphis Belle and much expectation was placed upon the new joint. Would it be as good? Could it possibly be as pleasant? As it turns out – it could. Swimsuit delicately transformed the space into a new space, which describes itself aptly as a “soft, fresh, young hang-out café.” It’s a true casual hangout spot that also manages to feel impossibly cool. Perfectly situated in a sunny corner near the ever-busy Dixon Street, there’s always something to look at and someone you know passing by as you enjoy your go-to flat whited, Americano, or maybe it’s a iced soy latte with hazelnut. No one else cares what you order, ensure you get what you like most.
Swimsuit has proven so popular it has opened two more stores in the city, one only a few minutes away from its original site in Lombard Lane, and another in the southern Miramar peninsula. Locals know that, if you want an excellent coffee and good vibes, pop into the closest Swimsuit café.
