Just six months out of school, Izzy Leighs has opened a new cafe in Christchurch.  

Izzy worked as a barista at the start of the year, saving money to go to work at a summer camp in Virginia, USA. 

But when Covid 19 hit, plans for her year were turned upside-down.

Undeterred, she decided with the skills she’d learnt saving money, she’d open her own business and try to create the best little cafe in Christchurch.

Izzy’s Café & Coffee Bar is a container cafe located on Bealey Avenue, across the road from Southern Cross Hospital. Opening yesterday the Fairlie Pies, Grizzly Baked Goods, Pure Wholefoods and delicious barista-made Switch Espresso have been popular with their happy customers.

Employing local people and paying the living wage, Izzy’s Café & Coffee Bar is offering “delicious coffee, great food by the best regional makers and using all compostable packaging.”

 “It’s all about the great people I have supporting me” says Izzy. 

“I decided to work with local suppliers to get the freshest, best quality, most delicious produce and I’ve managed to hire two of Christchurch’s friendliest, legendary baristas.”

“The suppliers have been so good to me, teaching me the ropes, and I’m having fun working with my baristas – they’re coffee-making pros and I love to see people walk off with a great coffee, delicious food and a big smile.”

Izzy’s Café & Coffee Bar is at 100 Bealey Avenue and has an extensive free carpark easily accessed off Durham Street. Open 6.30am-2.30pm weekdays and 8am-2pm on Saturdays.