Layne Roberts had her first taste of the hospitality industry at the age of 13 when she landed a job at her local café in Banks Peninsula. It was here she was first given the opportunity to get behind a coffee machine, and the rest is history.
Since moving to Christchurch six years ago, Roberts has cemented her place in the Christchurch coffee scene. Roberts pours her heart into every coffee she makes, an easy feat when a good portion of the Auction House clientele consists of regulars she knows by name.
“I really love that aspect of my job, being able to create connections with people,” said Roberts, speaking about the cafe’s regulars. “Seeing them come back in our doors when there is no shortage of choice for cafes in Christchurch is hugely rewarding.”
The Auction House Café menu was created with the hopes of having something for everyone. The in-house chef has a passion for vegan food so ensures vegan options are always available, and the owner is a true Southland man, meaning the cheese rolls are close to perfection. According to Roberts though, the scones are the true star of the show, usually selling out well before lunchtime every day.
Roberts’ go to coffee order is a long black with a splash of cream, though having to test the coffee grind at work means she drinks her fair share of espresso.
According to Roberts, the making of a great coffee all comes down to the beans and making sure they are evenly coloured and not oily before extracting a strong, smooth shot.
When not behind the coffee machine at Auction House Café, Roberts enjoys spending time at the beach with her dogs and hitting up local op-shops for some great finds. Also a trained florist, Roberts hopes to one day combine the two skills and open a coffee/flower shop of her own.
