Little Engine Eatery

1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook, Nelson 7011, New Zealand

+64 210 902 1259

$$$ Cafe

(187 Reviews)

Price Range $10–20

About Little Engine Eatery

Welcome to Little Engine Eatery, an inviting cafe nestled at 1 Cadillac Way in Annesbrook, Nelson. This captivating spot is not only a haven for coffee lovers but also a cherished destination for food enthusiasts, offering a delightful mix of delicious bites and welcoming ambiance.

As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a warm atmosphere complemented by the charming sight of a stunning Chevy Impala, a nod to the cafe's automotive-themed environment. The eclectic decor sets the perfect stage for your culinary adventure.

The menu at Little Engine Eatery is a parade of flavors, showcasing an impressive array of cabinet food that changes daily, ensuring there's always something new to tantalize your taste buds. Picture sinking your teeth into their gluten-free cheese scones, celebrated by customers for their crunchy, cheesy tops and delightful fluffiness. Pair it with a cup of their hot, robust coffee, and you've got a breakfast or afternoon treat that's hard to beat. As one delighted reviewer, Carol Parkinson, eloquently put it, "The BEST gluten free cheese scones I have ever tasted."

Customers rave about the varied, delicious offerings such as the ham and brie croissant, served toasted with a side salad, making for a perfect lunch option. If you're feeling adventurous, try the mushroom, spinach, and walnut crepe paired with a fresh salad—an exceptional combination that will elevate your dining experience, as Samantha Mayell noted during her visit.

For those looking to enjoy their meal in the open air, the cafe features outdoor seating that overlooks a serene water feature, creating a picturesque backdrop as you indulge in your favorite dishes. Whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a quiet moment alone, or treating your family, the environment here is lively yet relaxed, making every visit memorable.

Online reviews speak volumes about Little Engine Eatery's fantastic service. With quick service and friendly staff, your dining experience is sure to be enjoyable. Regulars like 'rileyty' cherish coming back each week, finding comfort and consistency in their favorite dishes like the famed Reuben sandwich and satisfying sausage rolls.

If you're in the Nelson area, make sure to carve out some time to visit Little Engine Eatery—where great food, lovely coffee, and a delightful atmosphere await you. It's not just a cafe; it's a community gathering spot that promises to keep you coming back for more delicious memories.

Features

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

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible car park

Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Wheelchair-accessible seating

Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

Coffee

Quick bite

Small plates

Dining options

Breakfast

Brunch

Lunch

Dessert

Seating

Amenities

Toilet

Atmosphere

Casual

Cosy

Crowd

Groups

Tourists

Planning

Accepts reservations

Payments

Credit cards

Debit cards

NFC mobile payments

Credit cards

Children

Good for kids

Parking

Free of charge street parking

Free parking lot

Parking

Photo Gallery

Location & Map

Openings Hours

Monday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Guest Reviews

187 Reviews

Phill Urquhart

06 Oct 2025

I drive by this café daily, and as I happened to have my father with me, and he is a car guy, we decided to call in for Coffee and a bite to eat. We were met at the door by a Chevy Impala in fantastic condition, and then we were welcomed by the amazing staff and the amazing array of food. Looking through the food cabinet at the incredible selection of food was a tough task, everything looked delicious, but I settled on a morning tea classic, a large sausage roll and a Coffee. The coffee was served first, and was very welcome! I love coffee, and this alone was the perfect start to our dining experience. The food arrived soon after. We had received our food within 5 minutes of sitting down which is great as we were hungry. The sausage roll was very tasty, and I only used the provided sauce sparingly. The pastry was light and flakey, and the meat filling was moist and flavoured nicely. The atmosphere was friendly and lively, a busy cafe is a sign of good food! A great dining experience, highly recommended.

Kim Seaward

05 Oct 2025

Lovely shady spot at the front of the WOW building. Very busy but quite a few seats. Food came out fast and the scones were great. Coffee was tasty too. Walked here from Tahuna in about 20 mins.

Carol Parkinson

21 Sep 2025

The most delicious gluten free cheese scones. Crunchy cheesy top, good sized scones. Hubby enjoyed his normal cheese scone too. Lovely hot coffee as well. Plenty of gluten free options, well worth the visit

Samantha Mayell

18 Sep 2025

Love this place. Delicious fresh cabinet food in a beautiful environment. Interesting choices - I had a the mushroom/spinach and walnut crepe with a side of better salad - super good. Sat outside by the water feature - stunning. Gift shop here is also one of my favourite.

carol parkinson

16 Sep 2025

The BEST gluten free cheese scones I have ever tasted. Nice n crunchy on the top, delicious with fresh dripping butter. Hubby's 'normal' cheese scone was a beaut too. Swift service, very nice hot coffee. Busy place with indoor & outdoor seating. Still exceptionally good.

rileyty

23 Jul 2025

Rueben is my favourite and a sausage roll is a close up second. The service is nearly always on point. Come here weekly with my family.

Annabella T

15 Jun 2025

Lovely wee cafe in Stoke. Staff were friendly and efficient. A nice selection of cabinet food, well priced. We had the ham and brie croissant, which came toasted with a little side salad. Delicious coffee too. Also great that it is attached to the car museum and gift shop.

ladybug

13 Jun 2025

We ordered two sandwiches and lemon yogurt cake. Every dish was excellent. We will absolutely come back!