The Garden Window

Isel House, 16 Hilliard Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011, New Zealand
+64 21 727 373
$$$ Cafe
(48 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Discover a hidden gem nestled within the lush surroundings of Isel Park—The Garden Window, a delightful café that invites you to unwind and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. Located at Isel House, 16 Hilliard Street, Stoke, Nelson, this charming spot is not just a café; it’s a serene retreat where nature and community beautifully intertwine.

As you step into The Garden Window, you are welcomed by the warm, friendly atmosphere that defines this pet-friendly haven. Imagine sipping on their refreshing homemade lemonade on a hot summer’s day, surrounded by vibrant greenery and the peaceful sounds of nature. Guests rave about the café's varied menu, featuring an array of delightful sweet and savoury options alongside a tempting selection of ice creams and superb coffee—something that has garnered praise for its perfect brew.

Andrew Fraser, one of the many satisfied patrons, emphasizes the café's inviting ambiance, perfect for enjoying time with furry friends. The seating, comfortably arranged under umbrellas, provides ample space for families and groups to gather. Meanwhile, the garden setting allows for a relaxed dining experience, where nature can be enjoyed at its best.

Those with a sweet tooth will find something to love as James Bosworth describes The Garden Window as a place for “delicious, simple cabinet food” that perfectly complements their high-quality coffee. Treat yourself to a delectable friand or a rich snickers slice, as enjoyed by Carmen Pearson during a delightful birthday celebration. Each bite captures the essence of homemade goodness, making every visit special.

Parents can appreciate the café’s kid-friendly amenities, with Jessica Richardson noting the charming outdoor features like slides, sandpits, and even coloring activities, allowing children to play freely while adults take a moment for themselves. And if you’re concerned about dietary options, you’ll be pleased to find a variety of gluten-free selections and an impressive range of teas that can cater to everyone’s preferences.

With friendly staff members dedicated to providing an exceptional experience, Melanie Escott highlights the café’s welcoming nature, pointing out that even your pets are treated with kindness, receiving dog biscuits to enjoy. The Garden Window truly embodies what it means to be a community-focused café, making it a must-visit in the stunning Nelson area.

Whether you're out for a leisurely stroll in Isel Park or simply looking for a peaceful retreat to catch up with friends, The Garden Window offers a memorable escape. Don’t miss out on experiencing this slice of paradise—grab your loved ones (including your beloved pets) and allow yourself to be enchanted by the delightful offerings at The Garden Window.

For more information, feel free to call them at +64 21 727 373 and plan your next visit!

Service options
Outdoor seating
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
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed
48 Reviews
Andrew Fraser

07 Oct 2025

Pet friendly cafe in the middle of Isel Park. Great to try their home made lemonade on a scorcher of a Summer day. They have a varied range of sweet and savoury, along with icecreams and coffee. Seating is under umbrellas and there's plenty of room around. Staff were friendly.

James Bosworth

05 Sep 2025

A hidden gem, easily forgotten because of the location but that’s the best part. Perfect coffee, delicious, simple cabinet food, situated in a sheltered garden behind Isel House.

Carmen Pearson

03 Sep 2025

I was here yesterday with my Dad for his birthday and it was such a great choice! Most importantly our coffees were perfect and I am very fussy!! His friand and my snickers slice were delicious and the setting is just lovely. Combine it with a wee stroll in the beautiful park and it really is a must do in the Nelson area.

Melanie Escott

23 Aug 2025

Such a great little cafe in Isel Park. Your dog even get some dog biscuit. Highly recommended. Friendly stuff and great for the kids to play and you can enjoy your coffee. Iced coffee is very good here

Jessica Richardson

03 Aug 2025

A great place, kid friendly with slide, sandpit, chalk board and colouring. Lots of gf options and great range of teas. Beautiful garden and tranquil setting with wonderful service too

Evi A.

30 Jul 2025

This café was just perfect. Nice service and super delicious coffee. I would recommend dining in because it was a nice experience to enjoy the coffee in the gardens with super pretty cups.

Jody Harris

12 Jul 2025

A great place to catch up with your mummy friends and littlies; with its slide, sandpit and a special children's garden leading to a massive chalkboard to occupy the kiddies. The garden is fully enclosed so you can sit back and relax with a nice hot cuppa. You might want to take a walk around Isel Park once you're done so the kids can run out there energy. However I wouldn't suggest this place on a rainy day as there is only outdoor seating. Eftpos is also available here for your convenience.

Cleo Cowdrey

27 Jun 2025

Cute cafe with a great location nestled inside beautiful Isel Park. Family friendly with a sand pit and play area, shaded tables and delicious iced coffee! Perfect for an afternoon cuppa with the kids!

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