The first of its kind in Auckland, Remote Control Cafe brings something completely new to the local scene. This week, we caught up with Jay and Mansi, the owners behind this new phenomenon.

“Overseas, they have heaps of these kinds of cafes — and having kids ourselves, we saw a real need for something like this here.” -Jay

Remote Control Cafe offers a hands-on experience built around miniature remote control cars and construction vehicles, letting adults and children alike dig, drive, build, and play while enjoying a coffee. Customers can operate everything from tiny excavators to dump trucks across specially designed play zones, and it’s already making waves. The first time we stopped by, the space was filled to the brim with people, all eager to get a piece of the action.

Venues like this have been popping up around the world, all centred on the idea of switching off and focusing on something different.

As Jay puts it: “On the weekend, you go out to get away from being at home all day — but then you end up at a cafe where there’s nothing to do. We wanted to create a space where you could have a coffee and actually do something with your time.”

More than just a novelty, it’s a place designed for families to spend time together, try something new, and enjoy a different kind of café experience.

As they continue to grow, Jay and Mansi are also refining their menu, introducing artisan chocolates and cookies to elevate the experience and make it even more special.

This isn’t their first venture in Uptown. Jay and Mansi also run Bricks 4 Kidz, an after-school and holiday programme focused on building skills in engineering, mechanics, and coding. It’s clear that both them and their team are not only experienced working with children, but deeply passionate about helping them learn through play.

Remote Control Cafe feels like a natural extension of that space, where play can spark an early understanding of physics and mechanics. 

Pop into Remote Control Cafe and experience it for yourself. You might find it’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.

Instagram: @remotecontrolcafe

Facebook: Remote Control Cafe

Phone: 022 133 9580

Address: 159 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024