Selection of food on offer at Alimento. Photo/Andrew Warner
Alimento goes lighterA city favourite has had a makeover, using more light and space, finds Annemarie Quill
IN a prime location on first avenue, Alimento is based in the historic former Masonic Lodge building and has just undergone a makeover by new owners Craig and Kira.
Chef Craig designed much of the new interior himself and the result is an impressive use of light and space.
As a former lodge the cafe enjoys a massive interior but always used to seem quite dark inside. The new hanging lights and funky wooden mirror features have given it an airy modern feel, but it still has a variety of tables and cosy corners to suit different diners.
The outdoor courtyard has also been redesigned to make it a larger space for people to enjoy relaxed drinks or dining in the sun or under the shade of the trees.
There is also a cosier backroom for more private business encounters or larger parties.
On the menu
You can order from the deli-style cabinet or menu. The cabinet has a mouth-watering array of baked goodies and muffins, including healthy and raw and gluten-free options. There are also salads and panini.
The blackboard and print menu serves the breakfast, brunch and lunch crowd. I like that it serves the breakfast options until 2pm as well as the lunch. There are the usual breakfast favourites such as muesli, eggs benedict and omelettes, and smashed avocado, as well as tempting breakfast burritos, corn fritters and blueberry pancakes. There is a children's pack, good value at $12 for a toasted sandwich, fruit salad, and a fluffy or juice. A variety of lunch options from salads to burgers.
With a wide drinks menu, Alimento is licensed. There's also smoothies, juices and of course a wide selection of coffees and teas.
The buzz
We came at a busy Saturday lunch time and the cafe was full but with the spacious setting it didn't feel too crowded, and the attentive wait staff were easily coping. Clientele ranged from hipsters to couples, families and friends.
I'll have
Fish tacos. A generous portion of three soft flour tortillas filled with pan-fried market fish, shredded cos lettuce, slaw, lime, avocado and chipotle aioli. Beautifully fresh fish was soft and buttery, coupled with the soft tortillas and tang of the sauce each bite was a delight but still felt like not too heavy a meal.
They'll have
With my two daughters, one went for the Mango Brioche French Toast which Kira wisely suggested a half portion. Served with mango and lime curd, mascarpone cream, honey toasted almonds it was a splendid combination of flavours and textures and I managed to pinch a spoonful or two of the gorgeous nutty sauce before it was demolished.
My other daughter bravely opted for the big breakfast - at just $20 it is great value for a huge plate of bacon, sausage, chunky potatoes, creamy mushrooms, roasted tomato, eggs and toast. With a plate wider than her it was probably too ambitious for a smaller appetite but that didn't stop her devouring most with a favourite the potatoes.
I had a flat white while the girls went for an iced chocolate served with cream and icecream.
The staff
Attentive and chatty without being overbearing. Both Craig and Kira are delightful hosts clearly passionate about providing top quality service and with excellent attention to detail and thoughtfulness to individual needs.
The verdict
Fresh food beautifully cooked and presented, the refit has raised the standard for places to brunch and lunch. We will definitely be back to try more of the alluring menu.
the details
Alimento Eatery 72 First Avenue, Central Tauranga 07 579 5990 contact@alimentoeatery.co.nz
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, and weekends and public holidays, 8am-4pm.