MJ'S CAFE in Ward

7326 State Highway 1, Ward 7285, New Zealand
+64 3 575 6834
$$$ cafe
(238 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to MJ'S CAFE, a hidden gem nestled along State Highway 1 in the charming town of Ward, New Zealand. As you step inside this delightful café, you're greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a quick stop or a leisurely meal. The ambiance is bright and cheerful, with clean lines and plenty of seating options—including cozy tables for two, spacious ones for four, and even counter seats for those who enjoy an intimate dining experience or people-watching.

The café boasts a menu that caters to a wide variety of tastes, making it an ideal pit stop for travelers and locals alike. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy burger or some scrumptious fish and chips, MJ's has something for everyone. Highlights from their menu include:

  • MJ's Burgers: Indulge in the legendary Fish Burger, a satisfying Cheese Burger, or try the Chicken & Bacon Burger for a flavor-packed bite. Vegetarians can enjoy the delightful Vegetarian Burger.
  • Takeaway Menu: Perfect for those on the go, the takeaway offerings include crispy Battered Hoki and juicy Hotdogs, ensuring you can savor delicious food wherever you are.
  • Flaxbourne Burgers: Treat your taste buds to their specialty burgers, such as the Steak Burger or the mouthwatering The Works Burger—a combination of the best ingredients for a true flavor explosion.

The reviews from satisfied customers speak volumes about the quality and charm of MJ's Cafe. Robin Lenogue raves, “Nice cafe, clean and very cheap! Good pies and great toasties, and the coffee does taste pretty great! I recommend!” Meanwhile, Kim Margaret expresses heartfelt gratitude, stating, “Thank you MJ for adding such a Ray of sunshine to Ward. They are very lucky to have you. Tasty food, lovely coffees and a fabulous atmosphere. Highly recommend a stop here to all travelers.”

One of the standout dishes that patrons can't stop talking about is the fish and chips. Tess Curry recounts her experience: “The coffee was perfect and the fish n' chips were delicious,” praising the generous portions of fresh Blue Cod and Rig, all served with perfectly cooked chips and a delightful twist of lemon.

MJ'S CAFE is not just a place to eat—it's a community hub. Locals frequent this café, often greeted by name, indicating the strong ties and warm service radiating from the staff. The cleanliness of the café and its facilities, as noted by customer James Hall, only adds to the overall positive experience.

So, whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch on your road trip, or just a place to enjoy good coffee and company, make MJ's Cafe in Ward your go-to destination. Stop by and discover for yourself why this little café has become such a beloved local treasure.

Service options
Outdoor seating
Kerbside pickup
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

238 Reviews
Robin Lenogue

12 Sep 2025

Nice cafe, clean and very cheap! Good pies and great toasties, and the coffee does taste pretty great - I recommend!

James Hall

26 Aug 2025

The flax bore Cafe of Ward impressed us . Lovely staff and good service. We stopped to use their toilets and grab a coffee on our journey to Nelson. A wide selection of food ,ice cream and cooked goods . They also sell alcohol beverages. The toilets are really clean and nice . It is very popular with the locals with some already knowing what to order without looking at the menu . There must be some favorite items on the menu. Thanks allot Flaxbourne Cafe Cheers

Tess Curry

14 Aug 2025

On the hunt for somewhere new to stop after a previous bad experience at another place in the area I read the reviews for here and decide to try it. Absolutely well deserved 5 stars. Coffee was perfect and the fish n' chips were delicious. I think the photos speak for themselves. Decent fat pieces of Blue Cod and Rig. Chips perfectly cooked. They even gave us some chopped up lemon! Staff very friendly, they treat you like the know you. We will be back and next time might sit down if we have time.

Kim Margaret

21 Jul 2025

Thank you MJ for adding such a Ray of sunshine to Ward. They are very lucky to have you. Tasty food, lovley coffees and a fabulous atmosphere Highly recommend a stop here to all travelers.

Laura Blake

29 Jun 2025

Great little cafe. Clean, bright and cheerful. Steady business and plenty of seating. Tables for 2, 4 or counter seats... Outdoor patio as well.

Erin Liebenow

20 Jun 2025

Such a lovely stop on our road trip. The pie was fantastic, crust was perfect and the filling was delicious. Hot chips were also excellent! The owner was so lovely, and the whole atmosphere was beautiful with flowers and musics playing

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