Ruby’s Espresso

Akersten Street, Port Nelson, Nelson 7010, New Zealand
+64 27 226 8434
$$$ Cafe
(208 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to Ruby’s Espresso, a charming café nestled on Akersten Street in the beautiful Port Nelson, New Zealand. This delightful spot is more than just a place to grab a warm drink; it’s a vibrant hub for coffee lovers and casual diners alike. With its outdoor seating arrangement, Ruby’s offers a unique opportunity to soak in the stunning views of the marina while indulging in a freshly brewed cup of joy.

As you approach Ruby’s, the inviting aroma of fresh coffee fills the air, enticing you to step inside. The menu boasts an impressive selection of coffee delights, including a robust Short Black for just NZ$4.50, or perhaps you’d prefer a classic Cappuccino or a lush Mocha for NZ$5.00? If your sweet tooth is calling, don’t miss their dreamy Dirty Chai for only NZ$6.50, a perfect blend to perk up your day.

The ambiance at Ruby’s is as vibrant as its menu; it’s a sweet and funky outdoor treasure. With an array of seating options—from relaxed deck chairs to cozy stools around barrels—you're free to lounge in your preferred style while enjoying the friendly chatter and warm vibes. Customers rave about the outstanding quality of the coffee; as Carl Colvill notes, it’s “damn good,” perfectly complemented by their delectable muffins. The Apple & Custard muffin has gained a reputation as one of the best around—just imagine biting into that fluffy goodness as you sip on a smooth latte.

Ruby’s isn’t just about coffee; they also serve up tasty bites that enhance the experience. Whether you're in the mood for a simple cheese melt or a fresh pastry, the food here is always prepared with care and freshness in mind. Sorana Brown describes Ruby’s offerings as “top quality,” with affection for the refreshing nature of their coffee—smooth, strong, and free of bitterness. This is not merely a stop for a caffeine fix; it’s a place to relax and enjoy the company of friends or your four-legged companions, as the café is dog-friendly!

Despite being an outdoor café, which might limit visits on rainy days, many patrons agree that the sunny Nelson climate is ideal for enjoying your beverage al fresco. Plus, as Steve Warne points out, Ruby’s is a reliable spot that even opens on public holidays, ensuring your coffee cravings are always met.

So whether you're wandering the beautiful marina, socializing with dogs and friends, or simply wanting a moment to savor life with exquisite coffee in hand, Ruby’s Espresso is your must-visit destination in Port Nelson. Stop by and see why locals and visitors alike are charmed by this vibrant café!

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Cash only
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

208 Reviews
Carl Colvill

29 Sep 2025

Probably 1 of the best Muffins I've ever had. The Apple & Custard was amazing. The coffee was damn good too. Excellent atmosphere and dog friendly.

Juraja Katuin

15 Sep 2025

Great coffee and food. Pitty it is just outdoors, however in Nelson sunshine you won't miss out for too many days.

Sorana Brown

07 Sep 2025

Ruby's is a sweet and funky little outdoor treasure. It's tucked away in the harbour with pretty views in all directions. There's all sorts of seating from deck chairs through to stools round a barrel. The coffee and food is top quality. The coffee is smooth and strong....no bitterness...and the food is fresh and tasty.

Steve Warne

27 Jul 2025

Always decent coffee beside the Nelson marina. Bonus is they usually open on public holidays. Seating is all outdoors so its nice on a good day! There's some food like cheese melts too.

Peter J S

21 Jul 2025

Walked to Ruby’s, never been before, coffee was nice, staff professional - but like many places the young people are often not sure how to interact with customers. Bought a couple of pies - little pricey $7.50 for smallish pies. Not really a place to go in the rain as no dry seating.

Sarah Robertson

09 Jul 2025

Had the Reuben toastie, big call but best toastie I have ever had. Right amount of everything in it. Coffee was delicious as well. Will be back a lot more often.

Jase Downer

18 Jun 2025

Coffee was perfect, catered to my need (Oat Milk). Cabinet sweets looked amazing, settled on a cookies and cream donut. Found a really nice spot to sit and relax. Great atmosphere, great staff and great coffee, what more could you ask for

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