Leigh Sawmill Cafe. Photo / Supplied
Address: 142 Pakiri Rd, Leigh
Rating:
First drinks: It was sunny for an autumnal afternoon, so we opted for a crisp Zeffer Red Apple cider, and a pint of the Leigh Sawmill's famous crystal wheat lager in the pretty, homely courtyard/garden. The Sawmill has a great range of craft beer brewed on site, and a more
than decent wine list and cocktail menu, and the cheerful bar staff are always helpful in finding something to your tastes.
The vibe is: very relaxed. The Sawmill is an institution - community-minded, friendly, and full of history. It has wood-fired pizzas and is a popular stop on the local music circuit.
On the stereo: The staff choose pretty unobtrusive music when there's no set DJ or band - it might be world music, jazz, reggae, classic rock. But when we visit, Tami Neilson and her stylish band are performing country, blues, rockabilly, and RnB, to the crowd's delight.
The bathrooms were: small, but well furnished and clean - plenty of paper towels, nice soap, and proper wooden doors.
