Restaurant review: Perfect spot for a leisurely brunch

The Dry Dock Cafe. Photo/Andrew Warner

Katie Shevlin discovers a little gem

Dry Dock Cafe is nestled away on Wharf St, and I've often walked past and never thought to go in. I have now discovered what I've been missing out on - a little gem lies inside.

Tauranga-born owner Sandra and her partner opened Dry Dock almost seven years ago in just one of the rooms, and two years ago knocked through the wall into the adjoining building - one of the oldest in Tauranga - to create a bigger space.

Dry Dock was their first foray into the hospo industry and they have managed to get the vibe absolutely spot on. The decor is clean and homey, with high ceilings, white walls and wood interiors creating a fresh feel and numerous plants adding a splash of colour. It is intimate yet spacious.

THE MENU:
The menu is not too extensive, which I like as it means you are not overwhelmed by choice, and it features all the brunch favourites such as muesli and yoghurt, french toast and eggs bene. Prices start at a very reasonable $10.50.

There is also a whole host of sandwiches and baked goodies to choose from in the cabinet if you're after something a little lighter - freshly made by the in-house baker every morning Sunday through Thursday. The sweet treats range between $3-$5.

I'LL HAVE
I opted for the creamy mushrooms and bacon ($17.50), which was served with two slices of ciabatta. The sauce for the mushrooms was not too heavy (as creamy sauces often can be) and had delicious honey and mustard flavours, and the bacon was crispy but not overdone.

HE'LL HAVE
Classic man, he went for the big breakfast option ($19.50), which features poached eggs, sausages, hash browns, grilled tomato, mushrooms, spinach and ciabatta. My partner likes to think of himself as a poached egg connoisseur so there was immense pressure for it to be perfect. Upon splitting it open, the orange yolk slowly oozed out. An A grade poached egg.

The sausages were also high quality and had a strong, herby flavour, and the hash browns were nice and crispy on the outside, as they should be.

VALUE FOR MONEY
The portions are a good size and both dishes were presented well. We had just enough room to share a lemon citrus slice from the cabinet, which was moist and refreshing.

TO DRINK
Two expertly made flat whites of the I-don't-want-it-to-end variety.

THE STAFF
I was surprised at how busy it was on a Thursday morning, but the waitress assured me this is normal. Despite the steady flow of customers, the friendly service did not falter and we didn't have to wait long for our food.

THE VERDICT
It's not hard to see why this place is so popular. It was the perfect spot to wile away a rainy morning with yummy coffees and food, and I've got my eye on one of the outside tables for the sunnier days to come.

the details:
Dry Dock Cafe
6 Wharf St, Tauranga
Phone: 07-577 1573
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7am-3pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 9am-2pm.