Hash-stacks and Eton mess pancakes probably weren’t what they meant by “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” but for Auckland it’s too late, we’ve given breakfast a whole different meaning. Every nook and cranny over the city has its own treasures with decadent pancake stacks and eggs benedict to use as an excuse for a quick Sunday catch-up.
Without further ado, we present to you a roundup of our favourite cafe spots for your morning fix.
Newbie
The new kid on the block. Newbie provides a contemporary twist on the classic brunches we know and love. The macadamia crumbed French toast is just one example of the unique palate Newbie have created. On the savoury side, opt for their hangover hash for a hearty dose of fried potatoes, egg, and chorizo. Off the menu, the cabinet goods are a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee with some epic cheese scones, cakes, and filled donuts. Who said you can’t have dessert for breakfast?
Crave
To say this place has a strong community feel would be an understatement. With couches and seating in abundance in this cool industrial space, you’ll want to gather as many friends as you can muster to enjoy Crave’s delicious menu. The eggs benedict on a crispy potato hash is what these guys are known for, but we also recommend the house-made brioche buttermilk French toast with raspberry and apple compote, maple, and bacon. Besides great food at Crave, you’ll find free wifi, lots of parking, and even the team at the in-house Little Lato serving up delicious gelato. It’s safe to say you could happily stay here long past breakfast.
Dear Jervois
You’ve heard the name, but have you played the game? Dear Jervois is the one-stop-shop for breakfast-savvy Aucklanders. Be ready to wait a little as this place can get pretty busy (or make sure you book ahead right here!) however, once you are seated you’ll see the food and friendly staff are well worth the wait. Tempt yourself with the creative dishes on offer like the mermaid bowl, matcha waffles, and vegan taco. Intrigued yet? So were we.
St Heliers Bay Bistro
For some “me” time or a relaxing view with good company, St Heliers Bay Bistro is an unmissable destination. If you haven’t heard word yet of the food, come out from under the rock and experience a breakfast for the books. With Amano’s hand-mand bread supplied to the bistro, whether you opt for the avocado loaded toast or asparagus, prosciutto and poached egg on sourdough, the result is the same - delicious. Enjoy a window seat and enjoy a breakfast as fulfilling as the bay view.
Hello Friends + Allies
Treats galore, this Auckland cafe is one to impress your socks off. Red velvet hotcakes are all the rage at Hello Friends + Allies, as well as a cabinet of sweet goods to accompany your coffee if you find yourself in these colourful walls in the lazy afternoon.
Bestie
K Road isn’t one you’d necessarily run to for breakfast as opposed to a late-night gig or boogie, but Bestie is a destination in itself. St Kevin’s Arcade hides this groovy number down the back, with a prime view of the city and great natural light. Get some work done in the morning with a quick bite or stay for a hearty breakfast. The house-made pineapple lump rice pudding with passionfruit curd and cacao nibs is both vegan and sure to hook you in.
Winona Forever
Standing proudly on Parnell Road in all of its colourful glory, Winona Forever is the haven of baked sweet treats. Whether it’s breakfast for two or a group of you snatching up the benches outside, Winona will impress all walks of life with its beautiful decor. Pair your Coffee Supreme brew with a flower-topped slice from the cabinet or order one of the Instagrammable dishes off the menu if you’re here to settle in.
Rosie
A sophisticated affair with a warm and cosy community feel. Rosie welcomes you in with friendly staff and Verona deconstructed hot chocolates that you’d be a fool to miss. Enjoy your breakfast with the locals and then take the time to stroll around the Parnell Rose Gardens afterward.
Cornwall Park Cafe
Hello sun-soaked mornings! After your walk up to One Tree Hill head over to Cornwall Park Cafe and order up. The cafe spills onto the grass with plentiful bean bags and seating so you can get your Vitamin D while you wait for your breakfast. Options like creamy truffle mushrooms or the nut-crusted French toast make it hard to decide whether you’re craving sweet or savoury, but with half-size eggs benedicts available, maybe you can fit in a bit of everything.
Jam
The beach, the shops, the cafes! Takapuna is a little hive of activity and a perfect destination for the summer season. Jam is just a step away off the main strip with great outdoor seating to soak up the rays. The bagel stack is a definite crowd-pleaser here and can easily be made vegan!