Fodor's Expert Review Café Encounter

Here's a bright eatery along the Esplanade, sharing space with the Dolphin and Albatross Encounter operations and a pleasant gallery/shop. The partially glassed-in courtyard is sheltered in most winds, and there's plenty of indoor seating. It's kid friendly, with a bright little Kiddies Corner playground. Food is available off the menu or from the cabinet; breakfasts and light lunches are appealing; and their range of cakes and slices is always tempting. As at any outdoor café in Kaikoura, don't leave your food unattended because the birds will snatch it quicker than you can say "seagull!"