Grey Lynn's Jafa Cafe Is Now Open After Hours

Those familiar with long-standing Grey Lynn coffee joint Jafa Cafe may have noticed that the lights have been staying on a bit later than usual. Though rather than catering to a brood of night owl caffeine fiends, the establishment has been given a new lease of life with the launch of a new pop-up bistro, Jafa by Night.

Strangely enough, the after-hours venture was founded by licensed dentist Aftab Moosa, a gentleman who has nil experience in the hospitality business. Between working for a practise in Albany, Moosa has thrown his hat into the food game, splitting the lease with the current cafe owners. The collaboration leads to a daily revamp of the two-level dining room, with the addition of a grandiose chandelier, laser-cut candle holders and black linen adorning the daytime tables. As the cafe closes its doors at 4pm the transformation unfolds ready for the 6pm opening time.

While restaurant experience may not be in his favour, Moosa has brought in accomplished staff to fill the void. Executive chef Ross Birch comes from Citizen Park, Snapdragon, and Scarlett Slimms & Lucky, while front of house manager and sommelier Gary Petzer was poached from Federal Street's Gusto at the Grand.

Birch has been given free reign with the menu, which is due to change every two weeks. Current menu items include: lavender-rubbed goat's cheese with beets three ways; a tomato salad headed by crispy soft shell crab and gazpacho; duck breast and confit leg with something of deconstructed caesar, and a fillet of beef served rare with suitable accompaniments of gnocchi, balsamic shallot jam and blue vein gratin. Despite the hefty portions, all mains also come with a default side of seasonal greens and boiled potatoes — arrive with an empty stomach.

The initial lifespan for the Jafa By Night is 12 months, though there are plans for a more permanent location should the pop-up hit its stride.

Jafa By Night is open now from 6pm - 10pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 551 Richmond Rd.