First In Cafe - Riverton Aparima

Best Cheese Rolls in Southland Would recommend them made with real cheese.Great Coffee too.

It must have taken a ton of guts to invest in a new cafe just 50 metres away from the iconic Mrs Clarke 's, which had recently been given a huge boost by being featured on TV by Al Brown in a Heartland cuisine show. Especially in a small town like Riverton. But the owners have done it well, and if their neighbour can serve up a lunch as good as I had today, they must be damned good. A bright, cheerful cafe with friendly staff and management lured me inside, but it was the delicious, beautifully presented food that won me over. The homemade pies (5 flavours) look superb. In time I hope to try each of them, but the lamb shank variety that I had on this occasion was one of the best pies I 've ever devoured. Served with a nice green salad and a little dish of a divine, not-too-sweet mint sauce (homemade, I should think), topped off a memorable lunch. As a bonus, the 'tea for one ' was a large, porcelain pot that must have contained four cups full. Country style food at its best.

I went in for lunch, and had one of the steak and cheese pies. Totally blew my diet for the day. Yummy, flavoursome, portion sizes perfect, came away feeling nicely full. Yummy hot chocolates as well. This place well worth the visit for excellent yummy food

First in Cafe can be relied upon for delicious food, warm friendly atmosphere and great service. It’s our family go-to place for special morning teas, and where we purchase our staff treats. Highly recommended if you’re a local or just passing through.

We had four delicious pies for lunch, with a cheese roll for our 5 year old. Then, later, when I realised I had misplaced my wallet, the owner made a special delivery trip to return it to me! Above and beyond the call of duty! Thank you so much!