Brunch: Brick by Brick Cafe, Onehunga

Brick by Brick is a funny sort of place. It protrudes from the surrounding buildings like an extension that hasn't been thought through enough. Having said that, because of its shape, it has windows on three sides, which makes it light and airy and bright. The tables are well apart and of decent size. It is run by a group of young Japanese who were so welcoming and helpful, it was a joy to be there.

One side of the cafe overlooks the curiously titled Tin Tacks Reserve, named for one Alexander Wright, an early wood carver in the district, whose nickname was Tin Tacks.

The menu features the standard offerings with a few unusual twists. Edamame beans with that, ma'am? Hot or cold?

We ordered the medium breakfast ($17.50), which seemed rather a high price for one rasher of bacon, one egg, one hash brown, a grilled tomato and sliced avocado and toast. It was fine but Bill fared better with his steak and mushrooms on bruschetta ($16). The steak was cooked to rare perfection, and there was plenty on the grilled bruschetta.

Overall we thought Brick by Brick is making a decent fist of offering European and Japanese dishes.

It's worth a visit for the excellent and happy service. If the weather allows, an outside table beside the reserve might appeal.