For more than two decades, Chateaubriant has been a cherished culinary fixture in Devonport, bringing an authentic touch of French culinary savoir-faire to Cheltenham Beach. Operating as a vibrant daytime café, an evening French bistro, and a dedicated catering kitchen, it blends traditional French techniques with fresh, seasonal New Zealand ingredients.
By morning and afternoon, guests can enjoy handcrafted, house-made pastries, seasonal cabinet food, hearty breakfast and brunch dishes, and Supreme coffee. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the space transforms into a warm, relaxed French bistro offering refined classics such as French onion soup and beef cheeks accompanied by carefully selected wines, delivering an intimate neighbourhood dining experience without formality.
Just moments from the shores of Cheltenham Beach, Chateaubriant has stood as one of Devonport’s best-kept secrets for over two decades. Combining the warmth of a local seaside neighbourhood spot with the culinary refinement of authentic French tradition, this versatile establishment transitions seamlessly from a morning artisan bakery and café into a relaxed evening bistro.
Starting every morning at 6:45 am, Chateaubriant opens its doors to early beach walkers, locals, and visitors seeking freshly baked house-made delicacies. The daytime café revolves around award-winning pastries, fresh cabinet food, and expertly poured Supreme coffee. Breakfast and brunch plates highlight a true French-Kiwi fusion, pairing classic European techniques with quality New Zealand produce.
Guests can savor morning specialities like the Cheltenham Galette, prepared with free-farmed bacon, mushrooms, smoked cheese, and crispy potato rosti, or the Kia Ora Salmon Bagel featuring house-cured New Zealand salmon, cream cheese, fried capers, and preserved lemon. Those seeking a classic midday plate often gravitate toward the airy Twice Baked Goat Cheese Soufflé with caramelised onions and Dijon vinaigrette, or the comforting Steak Frites served with butcher cut beef, maître d'hôtel butter, and crisp french fries.
On Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:30 pm, the dining room transforms into a cosy, contemporary French bistro. The dinner menu honors generous, traditional recipes made with local seasonal produce, complemented by thoughtfully selected wines.
Signature bistro courses include Grandma’s style French Onion Soup Gratinée and Burgundy-style Beef Cheeks braised in rich Pinot Noir sauce served over truffled mashed potatoes. The atmosphere remains intimate and welcoming, offering a refined European dining experience without any unwanted pretension or formality.
Beyond dine-in café and bistro services, Chateaubriant operates a full catering service for private celebrations, corporate functions, and weddings. From intimate dinner parties to large gatherings, their culinary team accommodates bespoke menus tailored to any event, hosted on-site at the Devonport location or delivered directly across homes and venues throughout the wider Auckland region.