Vivace Espresso

Vivace Espresso: Christchurch’s Coffee Institution with Heart

Step into Vivace Espresso and you’ll feel the pulse of true Christchurch coffee culture. Founded in 1997 by Bernard Smith, a third-generation coffee pioneer whose family helped introduce specialty roasting to the city, Vivace stands as an enduring symbol of artisan craft and resilience. Bernard’s roots run deep—his grandparents and father were among Christchurch’s first coffee roasters, and Bernard himself has guided Vivace through everything from earthquakes to industry revolutions, always with an eye on quality and innovation. As a founding member of the NZ Specialty Coffee Association and voted New Zealand’s Best Coffee Roaster in 2014, Vivace’s reputation is built on unwavering dedication to the craft and community.

Vivace sources high-quality Arabica beans, roasting fresh daily to highlight nuanced flavors in single-origin offerings and expert blends. Their roasting approach—eschewing commodity coffee in favor of beans that shine with natural sweetness and complexity—shows in every cup. Standout blends and single origins are brewed with precision, and the food menu is legendary, especially the cheese scones: hot, fresh, and irresistible. Whether you’re after a classic flat white, a black coffee with real character, or a plate of pastries to start your day, Vivace delivers with soul, energy, and a welcoming atmosphere that locals and newcomers alike cherish.