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 Class act |
194 Jervois Rd (Herne Bay) Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 7811 |
After undergoing a stunning renovation, Andiamo's interior in black and taupe tones now oozes sophistication. An impressive bar and lounge area is welcoming and the restaurant very comfortably appointed. For dinner try the Seared Rare Tuna with Cress and Crab Mayonnaise, followed by Lamb Shanks or Penne Pasta with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Cream. Supper is served from 11p when you can have "breakfast" or even an Eye Fillet Steak. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jarred bishop |
 Photo: jarred bishop |
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Child-friendly cafe |
121 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 376 4954 |
One 2 One (formerly Atomic Cafe) has been established for so long that they sell a custom T-shirt and branded coffee! Original brick walls, polished kauri floorboards and a collection of antique coffee pots lend character. There is a small garden and deck at the rear, complete with a sandpit for the kids. Check out the petanque happening out the back on Saturday mornings. As well as excellent coffee and a wide range of teas, the cakes and brioche are luscious! The tasty and healthy breakfast and lunch menus are up on the board. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Stylish cafe/bistro |
268 Ponsonby Road Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 7766 / +64 (0)25 989 869 (Mobile) |
Bambina is a well-established, small café with a faithful clientele. The décor is a cool but gentle minimalism blended with a touch of the past. It offers an all-day breakfast, and is renowned for its panini and other delectable items such as bruschetta with avocado and tomato, and orange polenta cake. The lunch menu operates from 11am. Try the Greek salad with haloumi. The food tends to be international in style with a Pacific Rim touch. Bambina is licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Neo-post industrial cafe |
256 Karangahape Rd Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 302 2677 http://www.brazil.co.nz |
Located in the historic Norman Ng building, Brazil features an iconoclastic décor, superb coffee (they roast their own beans), a diverse clientele and awesome snacks; plus you can surf the Web on the upstairs workstation. Brazil features exposed pipes, peeling paint, and an apocalyptic espresso machine. But the décor pales next to the clientele; dress codes do not apply and there are probably more piercings and tattoos per capita here than anywhere else in town. Brazil is a top destination for lovers of fine coffee, regardless of hair style. Simple but hearty breakfasts are served all day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Healthy food, congenial company |
80 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 376 3695 |
The present owners of Byzantium take great interest in serving especially healthy, mostly vegetarian food, and good coffee. Local business people make up the regular trade and often work informally at the table. Situated in an old brick building, which lends character, the café is warm and comfortable inside. There is an enclosed courtyard at the rear, and also footpath seating. Prices are reasonable, and the menu is varied--blueberry pancakes with sauce, smoked chicken melt with salad. Byzantium is not licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Smells good |
18 Lorne Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 358 0796 |
Long and narrow, Cafe Aroma is a great place to duck in for a quiet cup of excellent coffee and a sticky pastry. It is popular with local office workers and students. They fill the benches and tables and line the espresso bar, which has a great collection of current magazines. Original art adorns the walls. Well-presented and diverse sandwiches filled with delicious ingredients such as feta and Brie, complement the coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ponsonby archetype |
296 Ponsonby Rd Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 376 3338 |
Café Cezanne is the archetypal Ponsonby coffee spot, featuring footpath dining, and an eclectic assortment of customers, plying in and out all day long. Brightly painted murals and interesting reading material add to the picture. Healthy foods have never looked as good or tasted better than at Café Cezanne. Samples from the menu include seafood chowder and Penne pasta with venison sausage. Some decadent desserts have been thrown in for good measure. Wash them down with an excellent coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: susan shelley |
 Photo: susan shelley |
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Out east |
563 Remuera Rd Remuera Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 524 0356 |
Located on busy Remuera Road near the Upland Road intersection, Café Jazz has brought a touch of class to an otherwise prosaic environment. It also serves the best cup of coffee between St. Heliers and Newmarket. With elegant windows, polished wood floors and polite staff, Café Jazz offers a welcome respite during the busy day. The atmosphere is relaxed and conducive to staying a while. Open all day long, the coffee remains the same but the food changes as the day progresses. Lunches are very good value. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cafe at Kohi Beach |
2/237 Tamaki Drive Kohimarama Beach Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 528 8335 |
This very pleasant café overlooks Kohimarama Beach, the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island. It is popular with local residents, joggers, bike riders and strollers, and features outside dining with tables on the footpath. The café displays typical beach-side décor, with original art on the walls. But the best décor is the magnificent view of the water. Casual dress standards apply. It is a great place for coffee, tea, panini and cakes during the day and traditional hearty fare in the evening. Weekend brunch is a specialty. The café is licensed and you may bring your own wine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: barnaclebarnes |
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The Med in Mission Bay |
93 Tamaki Drive Mission Bay Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 521 1898 |
Located on Mission Bay's busy café row, Capri is open for tea and coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner. With a decidedly Mediterranean flavor, Capri is popular with locals and visitors alike. A traditional style café, Capri offers inside or outside coffee sipping. With soft pastel colors and friendly service, Capri is a great place to relax on a sunny afternoon. Coffees, pasta, pizza and wine are the attractions, each presented with an Italian-style flare. Capri is fully licensed so enjoy a special coffee after dinner, made with Frangelico or Kahlua. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Just ask Bill... |
1/323 Parnell Road Parnell Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 377 8550 http://www.chocolateboutique.c... |
If you have ever thought Bill Clinton looks well fed, here is the reason why. He popped in to this store on his way through New Zealand. Specialists in handmade chocolates (with over 100 to choose from), they also do gift boxes and corporate packages. Attached is a dessert and coffee shop where you may like to relax over a hot or cold drink, a snack, or some Swensen's ice cream. So, if you are after truffles, liqueur, fruit and nut, rocky road, coconut rough...whatever--this is the place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Markos O'Neill  |
 Photo: Thiago Almeida |
 Photo: King Siu |
 Photo: Eliza Flynn |
 Photo: Sara R Reynolds |
 Photo: Liz Clutterbuck |
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Out on its own |
61 Normanby Road Mt Eden Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 (0)9 630 6651 |
This fully licensed cafe/restaurant is in the heart of the (previously industrial) now regenerating area at the foot of Mount Eden--and full of character these parts are--you are very near Auckland's Victorian Mount Eden prison. Soft green and cream walls create a gentle background to the activity inside. Glass doors open to the green leafy courtyard. The menu is varied and interesting--Thai chili chicken soup, Caesar salad--an exotic version! Whitebait and scallop fritters. They are open for breakfast and have counter food, such as panini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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High Street life |
56-58 High Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 303 1971 |
This lively cafe/bar/brasserie occupies two floors on happening High Street, just a minute's walk from Queen Street. A big sidewalk terrace provides a good spot for observing the passing pedestrian traffic. Patrons comprise nearby office workers in for breakfast and lunch, students and tourists enjoying afternoon coffees and drinks, and a mixed, youngish crowd come for late-night partying on the weekends. Cima serves excellent coffee and cakes, breakfast and brunch, lunch, Mexican delicacies and gourmet pizzas all day long. Cima is fully licensed with a good variety of wines and shots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jaime Walsh |
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Exquisite cakes and desserts |
426 Mount Eden Road Mount Eden Auckland 1003 New Zealand +64 (0)9 638 6499 http://www.citycake.com/ |
"Mouth-wateringly delicious and substantially satisfying" describes the creations of the City Cake Company--the perfect place to find a fabulous cake or dessert for a special occasion. Chocolate Parisienne Cake serving six to eight, Gin and Lemon Cake serving six to eight, Dacquoise, the "towering dessert", serving 12-15, Orange and Cardamom Tart serving 12-15 are just some of the offerings. Choose a slice to "eat in", accompanied by coffee, tea, sandwiches and rolls. High tea includes two club sandwiches, a slice of cake and tea or espresso. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Designer coffee |
43 High Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 309 5677 http://www.columbuscoffee.co.nz |
Columbus is surely a front-runner for "best coffee" in Auckland. An award-winning cafe design draws its inspiration from the coffee itself. A giant copper roaster greets you at the door; banks of brass containers full of beans line the wall; even the small round tables have beans under their glass tops. The staff has a passion for coffee and takes pride in what they do. Try their moccachino and watch how it is made. They also serve counter food such as pies and sandwiches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cops and crooks |
83 Albert Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 358 0408 |
Situated directly across the street from the District Court, the Court Jester Cafe is frequented by lawyers, police, defendants and local workers. The Court Jester Cafe is a no-nonsense café—a decent bite to eat and drink at a reasonable price. It's actually a good place to sample quasi-home baking, New Zealand style scones, ginger crunch and lamingtons are all available here. The cafe does not pretend to be avant-garde—the clientèle have other things on their minds and want something familiar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mariko Walton |
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Post office takes on new life |
466 Mt Eden Road Auckland, NI 1001 New Zealand +64 9 630 9330 http://www.belgian-beer-cafe.c... |
Once the Mt Eden Post Office, this rustic spot just outside of Auckland has taken on new life as a Belgian Beer Cafe. The De Post offers a wide list of Belgian beers with traditional cuisine including their beloved steaming pot of mussels. Stella, Bellevue, Leffe and Hoegaarden are always on tap here which adds a perfect touch to the pleasant atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laela Delprat |
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Authentic organic sourdough |
5 Clarence Street Devonport Auckland 1309 New Zealand +64 (0)9 445 3185 |
The Devonport Stone Oven Bakery has been a fixture in the area for about twenty years and specializes in authentic traditional sourdough. They bake 30 varieties of bread daily, all fat free and naturally fermented without chemicals. Also served are delicious gateaux, pastries, pies, soup and lots of great counter food, along with tea and coffee. The atmosphere is bustling throughout breakfast and lunch. The café is licensed and you can sit inside watching the bakers, or outside observing the passing traffic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Humming with good energy |
256 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 360 0108 |
Dizengoff is light, white and spare in color, with polished kauri floors and large windows overlooking the street. Pavement tables are set between New Zealand cabbage trees. Atmosphere comes with the buzzing activity and music—frequently jazz. The counter is laden with plates of healthy filled panini and bagels and delicious cakes such as citron tart. More substantial fare is written up on the wall menu, from hearty breakfasts through to great salads for lunch. Dizengoff serves healthy fresh juices, various teas and excellent coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cristina Bonfanti |
 Photo: Jen Walter |
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Deliciously fresh |
222 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 (0)9 361 3222 http://www.estasi.co.nz |
Estasi entices with its menu--a fusion of Italian/Mediterranean-inspired Pacific Rim cuisine. Brick work and wooden tables and chairs give warmth and character to the interior. Tables outside give a good view of the interesting Ponsonby Road foot traffic. The menu is extensive (even catering to children). There are many options in each category from pasta, risotto and gnocchi, to mouth-watering salads. They are open for lunch and dinner daily and weekend brunch. There is a fully stocked bar near the street--again, ideal for watching the passers-by. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Quick fix for addicts |
Corner Albert and Victoria Streets Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 303 3373 |
Located on a busy corner just down from Sky City, The Fix is a small, friendly café, catering to students, business people and visitors. With a large mirror on the back wall framed in ornate gilt and posters from popular operas, The Fix exudes an old-world charm. Seating in comfortable wicker chairs is available on the footpath, or try the classic coffee shop booth seating inside. The Fix serves simple but well-presented fare-coffee, sandwiches, scones, pastries and other snacks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Cosy cafe with courtyard sandpit |
32 Jervois Road Herne Bay Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 4573 |
Come here for great food and coffee and a friendly comfortable atmosphere. The ocean colors of Fusion bring a relaxed but creative ambiance and reminds us of our proximity to the sea. You can sit street side, inside near the old central fireplace or in the rear deck and garden area complete with children's sandpit. Examples from the eclectic menu include a breakfast omelet of fresh herbs and free-range eggs or for lunch, a Thai beef salad. Fully licensed, there is a good selection of wines available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Gourmet pizza place |
262 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 360 1113 |
GPK is a restaurant, bar and cafe successfully rolled into one. A small cosy lounge at the rear of the bar has a fireplace and the timber theme is carried throughout tables, chairs and pavement seating. The menu is Pacific Rim and the food is always superbly presented. Pizzas from the wood-fired oven are exotic--the popular Bombay Pizza is chicken marinated in Indian spices, with red onions, cashews, banana, yoghurt, coriander and mango chutney. GPK is fully licensed, but does not take reservations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Art of coffee |
Auckland Art Gallery 1 Kitchener Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 377 9603 |
The Gallery Café is on the first floor of the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. With a partially sheltered terrace it is ideal for al fresco dining rain or shine. Inside, the walls are adorned with art, and the quiet atmosphere makes this locale popular for working lunches. The majority of its custom is drawn from local office workers and students. A full range of innovative and appetizing sandwiches and other dishes tempt the senses and could turn a quick stop into an indulgent lunch! The service is fast and friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The secret is out |
162 Garnet Road Westmere Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 (0)9 376 8227 |
This café achieved local fame with the publication of Simple Cafe Food: Secrets from the Garnet Road Foodstore, written by previous owner, Julie Le Clerc. The steely grey interior is simple but stylish. Now under new, but equally capable and friendly management, the Garnet Road Foodstore serves beautifully presented toasted panini, toasted bagels, salad and antipasto platters. They stock a small selection of delicatessen items, such as arborio rice and puy lentils, as well as their own preserves, chutneys and relishes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A hidden treat |
97 Anzac Avenue Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 303 0393 |
Hidden at the top of Anzac Avenue in the central city is Gloria Cafe & Espresso Bar. With a loyal clientele including TV personalities, models from a nearby agency and University students, the crowd is eclectic and varied. Kitchen delights include some great pastas, risotto and crab cakes, homemade pies and delicious smoothies--all very reasonably priced. Well worth the walk off the beaten track. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Character café and bar |
65 Pitt Street (corner Karangahape Rd) Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 377 0472 |
In one of the oldest parts of Auckland, Habanero is a charming blend of old and new--original exposed brick walls and the high board and batten ceiling sit well with the new bar trappings, wooden tables and chairs. There is an enclosed courtyard at the rear. Habanero is open for breakfast and lunch or just for coffee or a drink-- Habanero is fully licensed. The menu is varied, from a Croque Monsieur for breakfast to a tender Burmese chicken, ginger and turmeric curry on Jasmine rice for lunch. They also serve a variety of tapas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Quick jolt of caffeine |
47 High Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 303 0066 |
For a quick caffeine jolt, this is the place. Friendly service, great snacks, and a real cup of coffee make Jolt a favorite with local business people, shopkeepers, students and passers-by. Tiny, with just a few tables and stools at the counter, it is packed at coffee breaks and lunch. Just watching the passing foot traffic on High Street is entertainment enough--otherwise, check out Steve's iconoclastic message board or leave your own witty observations on the unique magnetic graffiti wall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mediterranean in eastern bay |
Corner Tamaki Drive & St Heliers Bay Road St Heliers Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (09) 575 2919 |
A fine location combined with friendly staff, excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere make the veranda at Kahve a choice spot on sunny weekends. The views from your table across St Heliers Beach to Rangitoto Island, with sailboats on the horizon, are most pleasant. Located in a renovated 1920s shop, Kahve has comfortable tables and chairs. They serve very good coffee, breakfasts, brunch and Mediterranean-style lunch and dinners. Kahve is fully licensed and also has off-street parking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Curbside drinking |
5/429 Tamaki Drive St Heliers Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 575 2823 |
Jammed into the back of a busy car park in St Heliers, La Vie en Rose does a roaring trade with locals and visitors. Just a tiny place, crowds overflow onto the tarmac after work. Posters, maps, pictures and people recreate a traditional Spanish-style tapas bar in sun-drenched St Heliers. With no more than 10 barstools, it is standing room only most evenings. From coffees to wines to Kilkenny beer on tap, La Vie en Rose is an unpretentious watering hole that features camaraderie and good value. They also play sports on TV and offer internet service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ulrika |
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Mediterranean medley |
Shop 6, Shed 23 Princes' Wharf Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 358 5402 http://cafelimon.co.nz |
Limon Cafe & Bar serves up an interesting mix of Mediterranean dishes, as well as some great coffee and desserts. Their tapas platters are the perfect accompaniment to an early evening chardonnay, whilst their seafood meals are pretty hard to beat. Be sure to stop by on a Wednesday or Sunday to enjoy Argentinean Tango nights. Very reasonably priced and with a beautiful view of the harbor, Cafe Limon is a pleasant alternative to the bustle of inner city dining and is worth the walk down to the wharf. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Simple but tasty |
3/171 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 9679 |
Lulu's Cafe is a haven for lovers of good, simple fare. This unpretentious and inexpensive cafe is both cheap and charming. Like its food, the decor at Lulu's Cafe is simple. The service is always cheerful and warm, and patrons soon become regulars. The neon sign in the window offers Pizza, Pasta & Salad and that's exactly what you get, with the addition of tasty home-made cakes and sandwiches. Food can be taken away or eaten in, and the coffee is perfectly prepared by the cafe's owner. Lulu's cafe is licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City style |
Upper Vulcan Lane Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 309 6300 |
Mecca Cafe is situated in Auckland's style epicenter, Vulcan Lane. The cafe is small and cosy-even the seating outside has wonderful gas heating. The clientele is varied. Some examples from the menu include asparagus wrapped in smoked ham with parmesan sauce; steamed chicken breast, braised leeks and corn on the cob; Penne pasta with chicken, asparagus, ham and cream sauce; and smoked salmon salad with noodles. The wine list features New Zealand and imported wines by the glass and by the bottle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Local character |
135 Williamson Avenue Grey Lynn Auckland 1002 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 0604 |
This is not the most chic part of town, but there's plenty of local style within Occam. The staff is friendly and efficient and the atmosphere is welcoming. Pavement seating is available, though large windows bring the outside "in" during the summer. A (gas) log fire keeps the place cosy in winter. A large blackboard menu offers daily specials around a Mediterranean theme, including vegetarian options. A satisfying all-day breakfast is served until 6pm. The tea and coffee are good, and Occam is also fully licensed with a separate raised bar area, complete with backgammon board and magazines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Late night institution |
134A Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 376 4466 |
History is acknowledged amiably, with some of the original brick walls exposed, and the wooden floors polished. You can sit on a tall stool looking out to the road or crowd round a table with the energetic throng. Wine is available by the glass. Mains include vegetarian, red meat, chicken and seafood dishes. Favourites are the chicken drumstick with peanut sauce and the mushroom fettuccine. The food is generally tasty and the servings generous. Coffee, juice and soft drinks are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Totally natural |
264 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 9 378 0201 |
Banishing the image of old-style health conscious eating establishments forever, Organic Kitchen is a super slick trip into the world of organic produce. It serves meticulously prepared organic meals and snacks at reasonable cafe prices, and though new, is already well patronised. Delicious fare includes Kumara and Chickpea Salad and some truly wonderful muffins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Garden centre with pleasant cafe |
Corner Shore & Orakei Roads Remuera Auckland, NI 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 524 4037 http://www.palmers.co.nz |
Palmers Gardenworld is a well-known garden retail franchise chain stocking a wide range of native and exotic plants, shrubs and trees as well as tools, fertilizers and sprays, pots, compost and mixes. A garden design and landscaping service is available. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to help. There is plenty of parking at the door and a pleasant sunny cafe at the rear—just keep walking through the plant displays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Overlooking Queen Street |
Queen's Arcade Corner Queen and Customs Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 377 5759 |
Patio Café is situated upstairs, within historic Queen's Arcade. There is a great view of the passing traffic below from the balcony. It is particularly popular with business people for workday lunches. The food here is tasty and well presented, in predominantly contemporary and Pacific Rim style, for example fresh New Zealand mussels, chargrilled vegetables, and smoked chicken and crispy vegetables. This cafe-restaurant is fully licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henry Halff |
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St Heliers society |
14 Turua Street St Heliers Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 575 5252 |
Set in one of the oldest buildings in St Heliers, Cafe Freddino specializes in traditional Devonshire teas served in a comfortable garden setting. Frequented by a loyal following of long-time customers, Cafe Freddino harks back to the days of leisurely mid-afternoon tea breaks. A cool garden setting offers a quiet alternative to the non-stop bustle of the St Heliers waterfront. Friendly service and traditional settings are a trademark. Breakfast, light lunches, cakes, muffins, sandwiches and quiches are also served through the day with coffees, teas and cold drinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Best pies anywhere! |
288 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 361 3685 |
Come here for the best pies in town—the most delicious and best quality imaginable. They make a wide range of inventive and tasty flavours such as Lamb and Mint, Steak and Mushroom, Tandoori Delight, Spinach and Cheese, Spicy Vegetable, and Thai Chilli Beef as well as old favourites like mince and steak. They also serve sandwiches, cakes and espresso coffee. Busy at lunchtime, you can perch at the window bench, or sit at a table on the street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Macmillan |
 Photo: Iain Bowen |
 Photo: AliaK |
 Photo: Adam Fleming |
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Italian delights |
97 Tamaki Drive Mission Bay Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 528 5398 |
Andrea is one of the longest-established drinking and eating establishments along the Mission Bay beachfront. With two levels of outside dining and cozy inside, it is popular with business people, groups and couples. Large murals decorate the walls and spumante bottles hang from the wooden beams. A large fireplace takes the edge off cool winter days, and potted tropical palms provide a balmier backdrop during summer. Italian and domestic wines complement a full range of pastas, seafood, pizzas and traditional Italian fare. It is also popular as a breakfast/brunch and coffee destination at the weekend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hearty food and good service |
85 Tamaki Drive Mission Bay Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 528 8566 |
With a prime location on the main "café row" of Mission Bay, Riva more than holds its own with the competition. From the beautifully carved hanging sign to the rich desserts and fine coffees, Riva is a class act. Old World ambiance with posters of the Dalmatian coast and Carpathian Alps on the wall and Slavic accents in the kitchen translate into old-fashioned attentive service and mouth-watering food, (including a children's menu). Come in for coffee or for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Riva is licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small but sophisticated |
114-116 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 8431 |
Much of the action at Santos happens on the street where you can see and be seen. Coffee enthusiasts from South America are behind this popular daytime haunt. The café interior is narrow, and has a smart minimalist style. Wide glass doors open to the street front or over the courtyard at the side, and the chairs are comfortable. A relaxed and jovial air prevails. Food is simple but tasty and Italian in character, such as panini and biscotti served with Santos coffee and fresh juices. The standard breakfast menu runs till late afternoon. Prices are very reasonable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Big latte bowls |
33 Tamaki Drive Mission Bay Auckland 1005 New Zealand +64 (0)9 521 0979 |
With the largest latte bowls in Mission Bay, Scorpios draws a brisk business from local business people to residents and visitors. Come in for a coffee either indoors or out or enjoy the full menu from breakfast and lunch, through to evening meals of say fish or lamb, followed by a dessert. Tasteful music and attentive staff make dining at Scorpios an enjoyable experience. You may bring your own favorite wine to Scorpios! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seriously good |
30 Swanson Street Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 307 2197 |
With simply superb coffee and talented staff, Serious Espresso is as serious about coffee as the name suggests. They blend and roast their own beans and despite several location changes, the crowds keep following the aroma for their daily caffeine fix and light snacks. Whole and ground coffee is available to take away. On Monday evenings (7:30p-10p) a live jazz band plays. The café is licensed to serve beer and wine and also serves a vegetarian "Pacific Platter" in the evenings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For fine-coffee connoisseurs |
50 Jervois Road Ponsonby Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 378 1273 |
The atmosphere is pleasantly relaxed and friendly, and the service is good. You can sit inside, or street side, to watch the local action--if you can find a spare seat. Sierra serves wonderful cooked breakfasts, and well-presented counter food, along with excellent coffee. Choices from the lunch menu include scallop risotto, Caesar salad or chicken burgers and meals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For a comfortable cafe |
119 Parnell Road Parnell Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 377 6959 |
The Strawberry Alarm Clock is a comfy, unpretentious cafe in the heart of upmarket Parnell. They have a great selection of breakfast and lunch delights, including some truly fantastic filled panini and brunch dishes such as creamed mushrooms on toast. The coffee is well brewed and there is a small selection of wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs. The service is friendly and the pace unrushed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: juan ujčić |
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Parnell chic |
107 Parnell Road Parnell Auckland 1001 New Zealand +64 (0)9 300 3042 |
Trinity Cafe embodies the spirit of the suburb of Parnell-sleek, tasteful and comfortably stylish. It is a great place to people watch whilst dining on a delicious brunch, such as mushrooms on toast or eggs Florentine with spinach and salmon. Lunch time fare includes Caesar salad, calamari with lime and sweet chilli salad and corn fritters with bacon and salad. Review © 2007, Wcities |
