Built from rammed earth on six acres of former farmland just outside Tasman village, Jester House has been a local icon since Judy and Steve Richards opened it in 1991. It was the first cafe between Richmond and Motueka. The owners built the cafe and their family home from rammed earth and other natural materials, and planted more than 10,000 trees on the site. The website says it was New Zealand's Cafe of the Year in 2013 and is rated the number one place to eat in Tasman on TripAdvisor. The cafe serves a range of food and drinks in a cosy room or in its relaxing gardens. The Boot, a whimsical accommodation inspired by the nursery rhyme, offers a romantic getaway with total privacy.
We hear Jester House will close after its final day on 20 November, which is already fully booked. Until then the cafe opens on Fridays from 10am to 5pm, except public holidays. The owners ask people to book ahead, on 03 5266742 or at lunch@jesterhouse.co.nz. The Boot will carry on after the cafe closes. Our pick in Tasman for a slow Friday lunch while the doors are still open.