Address: 2 Tavern Rd, Silverdale
This is one of Auckland's oldest pubs, dating back to 1863 (though rebuilt after a fire in 1881) and was refurbished a couple of years ago.
The refurbishment has kept many of The Wade's original features so it still oozes character and charm. The dining area is lovely and light, and had it been a nicer day we would have made a beeline for the fantastic veranda overlooking a big grassed space.
The brunch menu is basic but reliable. It's The Wade's historic surroundings that make dining there a pretty cool experience.
We ordered the bubble 'n' squeak ($15.50), which was served with a poached egg inside crushed potato, onion and red cabbage, and served with hollandaise. It was deemed delicious, thanks in particular to the red cabbage which gave it a good burst of flavour. My cheese, bacon, mushroom and tomato omelette ($17.90) came with five-grain toast and was also filling and tasty, though a tad dense for my liking.
The coffee was Wellington favourite Caffe L'affare. My latte was hot and strong.
The service was attentive, friendly and efficient.
Overall The Wade is a great local and an alternative to cafe culture for a meal. Bring the kids - children are catered for on the menus and there are books, crayons and a fenced lawn area to keep them entertained - and make an afternoon of it.