Neil Hodgson, a food and wine writer based in Nelson, introduces us to Victus Coffee and Eatery, a unique café on Bridge St. Previously known as The Kitchen, the café was bought and rebranded by Nick and Beth Schryvers in June 2022. The couple not only changed the name but also revamped the food and coffee offerings.
Nick and Beth aim to provide more than just tasty food and excellent coffee. They are committed to providing exceptional customer service and contributing positively to their community. They believe in addressing social issues, such as food scarcity and the need for social connection, through their business.
Nick, with his extensive background in coffee roasting and making, ensures a perfect coffee experience for every customer. His wife, Beth, shares his passion for coffee and helping people. They both worked for Allpress Coffee at different times and met while volunteering at the Kairos Free Store in Christchurch, a community initiative that provides food and companionship to those in need.
The couple moved to Nelson after Nick’s son completed his cancer treatment. They worked for a local café, Sublime, before purchasing The Kitchen. They saw potential in the café and decided to turn it into a modern, community-focused eatery.
At Victus, the couple focuses on three key aspects of hospitality: atmosphere, offerings, and service. The food menu is designed to cater to both people in a hurry and those who want to relax. Their head chef, Charlie Boyle, has created a menu with classic dishes but with a unique twist. They also serve coffee from Ozone, a coffee producer they admire for their customer relationships and commitment to quality.
Nick and Beth believe in the importance of people in their business, a sentiment echoed in a Maori proverb featured on Victus’ website: “What is the most important thing? It’s the people, the people, the people.”
