A new era
Brigittes is an institution with a legacy of providing exceptional coffee, food, and hospitality for almost 50 years. Building a loyal community, Brigittes is well-known in Merivale and across Ōtautahi.
When it sprung to life in the mid-1970s, the original café had its foundations not far from its current home. A few years later, in the ’90s, a move saw the café take root in the locale we know today. In the early part of this century, the business was sold by founder Brigitte to an employee.
Fast forward to today, and Brigittes is still standing strong under the helm of new ownership, thanks to co-owners Jeremy Stevens, Michael Rowland-Jones, and Frank Van Schaijik. Jeremy is part of the Aikmans Group, and Michael is the executive chef. You will have likely experienced his expertly-crafted dishes at hot dining spots around the city.
Brigittes is still a place one can meet with workmates, spend a Sunday morning with friends, or simply re-energise with a caffeine hit while on the go. The ethos on site is still very much centred around the patron with unparalleled service and excellent fare.
Something even the most regular of customers may not be aware of is the speciality coffee blend that the roasters, Ozone, has supplied the café for well over a decade – a signature blend with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, citrus cherry, and roasted nut. It’s one of only three companies in New Zealand that have the privilege. It is part of a long connection with the brand, with the current CEO of Ozone, Craig Macfarlane, tamping his very first espresso at Brigittes.
Ensuring Brigittes stays part of the city’s hospitality scene for the next 50 years, Jeremy and Michael have some planned changes on the horizon. With a revamp and evening dining on the cards to make the most of the café’s setting.
“We’ll definitely be embracing more of a wine bar feel in the evenings. We’re working towards major renovations, both inside and out. We’ll be enhancing the courtyard space to make the most of the sun.”
According to Michael, the menu has been tweaked and improved rather than radically altered. There’s a real sense of keeping the essence of the café true to its reputation rather than trend-hopping or gimmicky offers.
“It’s the same Brigittes, just improved. We are here, and we’re breathing new life into the café you know and love.”
This respect for tradition and the place the café has held in the local community was mirrored in the honouring of its namesake, Brigitte, with her recent passing.
Friends, family, and former colleagues celebrated Brigitte’s life with a wake on-site at the café last month. Jeremy mentions that many patrons often come in with wonderful stories about her, and this will forever be welcomed.
With its past firmly shaping its future, the legacy of Brigittes is sure to continue.