Herald rating:
The menu is split into two - one side brunch, and the other side leaning more towards lunch-style options. However, both are available from 7am to 3.30pm. The brunch options are good and varied (a sweet and a savoury waffle option, $16.50; eggplant kasundi with a poached egg and watercress salad, $15; eggs benedict with bacon, mushrooms or smoked kahawai, $18; and the house grill, $22.50).
The food was good without being great. The eggplant kasundi was tasty but, for something that is usually served as an accompaniment to a dish, there was far too much of it and the watercress "salad" was simply a couple of sprigs of watercress on top. We ordered a side of roast potatoes ($4), which were delicious. The apple crumble waffles were probably the dish of the day - two large waffles with roasted apples, cinnamon sugar, crumble and a jug of creamy custard.
The look of the cafe is a mixture - booth seating at one end, and long school tables at the other. There is also a gated play area for the kids.
The coffee was Supreme and terrific. Hot, creamy and the perfect kick. They also do great smoothies, and Six Barrel Sodas.
The service was great. Young, friendly waitstaff who were happy to help.
Overall, this place has great potential but the food needs attention. The menu sounds good but the dishes don't quite deliver. The separate seating areas don't help the ambience of the place either - it was reasonably full on the Sunday we visited but the vibe felt a little flat.
- Canvas