FRANK'S Newtown

5 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand
+64 4 389 9222
$$$ Cafe , Breakfast restaurant , Coffee shop
(234 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you're looking for a cozy nook in Wellington that combines great coffee with a relaxed atmosphere, FRANK'S Newtown should be on your must-visit list. Nestled conveniently at 5 Riddiford Street, this cafe isn't just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a retreat where locals and travelers alike come together to enjoy quality beverages and light meals.

The first thing you'll notice when you walk into FRANK'S is its minimalist design, perfectly complemented by a warm, welcoming ambience. Customers rave about how this cafe serves not only delicious food but also one of the best coffee experiences in Wellington. A standout menu item that you absolutely cannot miss is their perfectly brewed soy mocha, noted for its rich flavor and creamy texture—guaranteed to give you that much-needed caffeine boost.

Customers have praised the delicious muffins and scones, often toasted to perfection rather than merely warmed in a microwave, which elevates the enjoyment of these treats to another level. The attention to detail in food preparation is evident, making it a favored spot for those who appreciate the craft behind quality café fare.

The atmosphere at FRANK'S is one of ease and comfort, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends or stealing a moment of solitude with a good book. Its spacious layout allows for well-spaced tables, whether you're enjoying a moment alone or chatting with a group. One customer, Joon Lee, expressed delight in the cafe’s interior and noted its suitability for any occasion, making it an adaptable space for both casual and more social gatherings.

Customer reviews resonate with a common thread of satisfaction and warmth, with Tio Taiaki highlighting its proximity to hospitals while still being a welcoming haven for good food and strong coffee. Meanwhile, A Bahrij appreciates the friendly staff and light meals, underlining the cafe's inviting spirit. With a philosophy centered on not just serving coffee but crafting connections, it’s easy to understand the consistent praise.

The baristas here are quick and attentive, ensuring that your coffee arrives just as you like it! Lauren C even commended the staff for their friendliness and helpfulness—a testament to the positive energy that exudes from the team at FRANK'S. And for those who have visited Wellington Hospital, it's a mere five-minute walk, making it a perfect pick-me-up destination!

In summary, if you find yourself in Newtown, Wellington, FRANK'S Newtown is more than just a café; it's a community hub where quality coffee and great vibes reign supreme. It’s the ideal spot to recharge with an aromatic brew and delicious baked goods, making it a beloved fixture in the local landscape.

Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Openings Hours

Monday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

234 Reviews
Tio Taiaki

27 Sep 2025

I needed somewhere close to Hospital with good food and decent coffee? Found it! And only 5 mins away. Perfect soy mocha, delicious muffin/scone (toasted, not m/wave heated - yum!). Love the minimalist design and easygoing ambience. Highly recommended!

A Bahrij

27 Aug 2025

Opposite Countdown has a number for tables up the back of the cafe. Good coffee and light meals a must. Lovely friendly staff.

Relentless Consistancy

21 Aug 2025

I swear on my entire family blood line, This place serves the best coffee to ever grace your lips. The atmosphere is relaxed it's a nice cozy place to relax when you visit the city, if you ever find yourself in wellington Hospital and have use of your legs this place is great pick me up. 10/10

Lauren C

01 Aug 2025

Great cafe with super friendly and helpful staff. Quick at making coffees and serving customers. Neat little place for catching up with friends while enjoying a cuppa. Has a bathroom too as not all cafes do these days. Love the simple but effective lighting too. Thanks Franks!

Joon Lee

26 Jul 2025

Neat cafe that’s definitely worth trying out! While my wife and I visited Newtown, we decided to try a local cafe and came across this one. The cafe had a nice interior layout and tables were spaced out sufficiently so whether you are by yourself, or as a group, any occasion would be suitable. We ordered 3 cups of coffee - a latte, mocha, and a filter coffee. Filter coffee expressed the tasting notes very clearly and was well balanced. White coffee was the biggest surprise. Milk was frothed just correctly and the coffee blend paired so well with the milk. The coffee was so smooth that you just take sips straight after another. I could tell that the cafe was well known to the locals. The staff seem to know the customers well and I liked that all customers entered and left with a smile on their face. If you are around town, I would definitely recommend visiting this place. It seems like one of the barista has earned rewards also.

J.G. Seabrook

14 Jul 2025

Fanstatically chic yet endearingly local café for true coffee-lovers! Frank’s is all about clean, minimal design to create an airy environment to truly appreciate your coffee in. Order your coffee over a small central bar filled with snack options from moreishly filling donuts, salted caramel cookies and brownie, to simply tomato and cheese or filled rolls. A sandwich press ensures you’ll delight in any savoury baked good. The coffee is superb. Brilliantly poured crema with perfectly stretched milk. Decaf options are available, and if you need a sweet hot go for a well made mocha! Go here for excellent coffee and enjoy taking in all the smells and textures as you unhurriedly pass your time.

Josephine Lucas De Guzman

23 Jun 2025

Went in today, the space is bustling around 9ish! It's obvious that this is a popular cafe here in Newtown, good thing that a local recommended to me while I'm at the area. Mocha and Flat white were on point, loved every sip, all the way! Also, their almond croissant is heavenly, you must definitely try it! The space is minimalist, love the indoor plants of course. Price is reasonable, staff are accommodating too! Will def be back!

Aaron

19 Jun 2025

Friendly & talented staff! Beans & coffee on point, bacon & egg sammie's are DELUXE and REAL good. Top tier.

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