For visitors and locals alike one of the most popular things to do in Auckland, New Zealand is to sit back and relax in one of the city’s fantastic local cafes. There are plenty to choose from, ranging from sleek and modern, to quirky and original, but you can be sure that all of these Auckland cafes serve up some excellent plates.
Chuffed – 43 High St, CBD
Chuffed is an inner city favorite and a great place for a business lunch. Their house coffee is blended from Arabica beans from around the world to create a superb brew, and check out the cold drip iced coffee which takes over 9-hours to brew. The works of local artists decorate the space and this is an original and friendly place to enjoy some superb food in a relaxed setting.
Olaf’s Artisan Bakery Café – 1 Stokes Rd, Mount Eden
Olaf’s Artisan Bakery Cafe offers an extensive range of breads and pastries hand-made in traditional European style. This Mount Eden cafe has received many well-deserved awards and is considered to be one of the best cafes in Auckland. The passion which the German owner has for real artisan breads is obvious, and by using all natural ingredients, traditional techniques, and a long fermentation period they produce some truly unique and delicious fare. They serve a range of yummy sandwiches which can be accompanied by fresh salads, and there is also a full breakfast and lunch menu. While savoring your food you can enjoy watching the baking process going on through the huge glass window.
L’Assiette – 9 Britomart Pl, Britomart
Keeping in the European trend, the small bistro cafe of L’Assiette, situated on Britomart Place, offers a wonderful excursion into the magical world of French patisserie. You will be tempted by an array of classic French sweet treats and they also offer traditional French breakfast and lunch options. Ooh-la-la!
The Botanist – City Works Depot 13/90 Wellesley St W, CBD
The Botanist on Wellesley Street is a wonderful place to stimulate the senses. Not only can you enjoy a varied menu which changes daily, you will dine surrounded by an exquisite array of flowers, plants, and blooms. This cafe, bar, and florists serve an excellent cup of coffee and some original brunch options, including the delicious Breville Toastie. The place is relaxed, spacious and breathes life.
Cafe on Kohi – 3 Averill Ave, Kohimarama
Cafe on Kohi, near Tamaki Drive, not only offers diners some stunning views out over Kohimarama Beach but also some original and tasty dishes. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you to decide from the tempting list of tasty delicacies which they offer, and a must try is the patatas bravas with halloumi, poached eggs, and capers. Opened over 12-years ago, this was the pioneer cafe of the Hipgroup which now includes fourteen outstanding locations, each of which offers the customer a world class dining experience every time.
Richmond Road Café – 318 Richmond Rd, Westmere
If you just can’t decide where to eat in Auckland check out another Hipgroup member, the Richmond Road Cafe in Westmere. This is a sleek, chic and thoroughly modern place to dine, where the emphasis is on fresh ingredients and top quality dishes, along with a first class service. The all-day menu offers a great selection of breakfast, brunch and lunch options to make your mouth water, and it has deservedly become one of Auckland’s best cafes.
Orphans Kitchen – 118 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby
For something out of the ordinary, Orphans Kitchen on Ponsonby Road is one of the most delicious Auckland attractions to visit. This unusual cafe specializes in promoting unusual or little-known native New Zealand ingredients in a true dining adventure. Inspired by the varied landscapes of the country their food is a true cultural and culinary experience. They claim to be the “home of unadulterated food and naughty wine”- now you don’t want to miss that!
About the Author
Angela Hallberg is Marketing Manager for Omega Rental Cars, one of the most trusted Auckland car hire companies. With a passion for travel, and years spent in the New Zealand tourism industry as a travel agent, tour organizer and incentive travel specialist, she loves to help others discover all the best things to see and do in her home country. Sharing local knowledge, feedback from Omega Rental Cars customers, and actively seeking information on activities and attractions, Angela can help you plan an itinerary to maximize your time in New Zealand.