Brunch: Dear Jervois, Herne Bay

The menu

was an extensive list of breakfast and lunch options available all day, with dishes ranging from winter warmers like pumpkin and potato soup ($13) or seafood chowder ($14) to salads, eggs, burgers, waffles, a bunch of Best Ugly Bagel selections as well as gluten-free, wheat-free and vegan options.

The look was very polished on this newly done-up corner, one of the sunniest spots on the competitive Jervois Rd dining scene.

We sat up at a wooden bench, people-watching the other happy-looking patrons.

It felt industrial and hip, but cosy on this hectic Saturday.

The food arrived and we were wowed by its visual appeal. My Superfood Cruesli ($14) with poached pear, rhubarb and housemade berry compote was not only the tastiest I've had since I've been brunch reviewing for Canvas but its health factor had me feeling righteous all day. My dining companion sunk his teeth into the generous fish finger sandwich ($18). The beer-battered tarakihi with smashed avo and broad beans was made all the more special by the salty, tangy taste of the seaweed tartare and pickled cucumber.

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The coffee we opted for was the increasingly popular American-style filtered brew for two ($7). Our hipster waiter knew his thing, enthusiastically telling us about the Brazilian background of the Bob-O-Link Coffee Supreme beans that had gone in to our nutty brew. It tasted beaut and was quite a cute experience sharing a jug of the warm coffee, which tasted even sweeter the more it cooled.

The service maintained its cool, calm and chipper buzz, despite the bustle. We especially took a shine to the aforementioned coffee nut who seemed to take pride in running the show.

Overall a gorgeous addition to the Herne Bay dining scene by the folks from the popular Milford Eatery, Little King. We can't wait to go back to this place.

Gallery: An inside look at David Lee's new cafe, Dear Jervois