BeesOnline, Waimauku

By GRAHAM HEPBURN for canvas

We knew we were pushing our luck, trying to get a table at BeesOnline at lunchtime on a dreary Saturday, especially with a munchkin in tow.

And, as it happens, they were full when we turned up, but a very efficient woman with a clipboard took a name, told us to order drinks and take a number, have a look around and it would be a 10-minute wait. Which it was.

And when we were seated, our drinks turned up. This attention to detail and emphasis on service was a highlight of our visit.

Beesonline doesn't take bookings but they do have plenty of comfy sofas to lounge on while you wait or you can walk through to check out their honey-making centre or browse honey-related merchandise.

The cafe is a contemporary, high-ceilinged, steel and glass affair set in newly landscaped grounds with a pond. It has the look of a smart bistro and with the size of the tables it's not the sort of place where you can spread your newspaper out and slouch about.

BeesOnline does an all-day lunch and all-day brunch, as well as a variety of salads, desserts and a cake selection. The varied and inventive menu features New Zealand cheeses, locally smoked or cured meats, and indigenous herbs.

Jane opted for the West Coast Platter ($24.50 - fresh seafood with pickles, honeygar (sic) and honey wasabi dip), while I chose the Trio of Sausages ($17.50 - wrapped in smoked bacon with potato hash and free-range egg). Sophie May had to settle for the Junior Grazing Platter ($8 - vegetable fingers, cheese, cold meats, boiled egg, Buzz Bar and homemade lemonade and honey), but she was rapt with the accompanying bee spinning top.

The presentation and execution of the meals matched the excellent service, and they also make coffee that packs a punch.

At the risk of making this place even more popular and difficult to get into, it's well worth a trip out west.

Parking: Plenty off the road in front of the cafe.

Ambience: Buzzy, backgrounded with mellow sounds

Service: Superb

Open: 9am-5pm, seven days

* Read more about what's happening in the world of food, wine, party places and entertainment in canvas magazine, part of your Weekend Herald print edition.