Brunch: Plume Cafe, Matakana

Plume Cafe in Matakana. Photo / Chris Gorman

Herald Rating: 3/5
Address: 1335 Leigh Rd, Matakana

We came here because we needed sustenance after our drive from Auckland and saw the attractive white house on entering the township.

Parking was relatively easy despite it being a market day, by the river.

We walked in and immediately thought looks were not deceiving, the villa was spacious with an attractive decor and enticing breads and pastries for sale. We opted to sit outside in the garden courtyard.

The most unusual thing on the menu was the crespella, a pancake filled with pancetta, spinach and mozzarella, baked in tomato sauce and served with a rocket salad ($18).

We ordered the crespella and the early riser - scrambled eggs, herb salad and crispy bacon served with sourdough bread (also $18).

The coffee was just right. It and the hot chocolate put us in the mood to explore the market.

The service was on the slow side, although it was busy this day.

We recommend if you come here you give yourself plenty of time to eat before heading to the market, as it closes at 1pm on Saturdays.

Overall we thought Plume was a relaxing place to stop and refuel.