Rivet cafe, 145 Ponsonby Rd, Auckland. Photo / Richard Robinson.
Herald rating: * * *
145 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby
We came here because it looked funky, it wasn't crowded and parking was just outside.
Parking can be wanting in Ponsonby Rd, but this Sunday was unusual (see above).
We walked in and immediately thought it really is interesting, a muso's cafe we figured, a lot of posters
of upcoming gigs and concerts. Plenty to read, too - the counter is papered in old newspaper ads. Deodorant for "outsized" women, anyone?
The most unusual thing on the menu was a falafel burger ($8.50). I guess that's like a Clayton's burger.
We ordered a toastie pie for Bill. He hadn't had one for years and from the options of mince with mozzarella, tomato with mozzarella and basil pesto, and ham with mozzarella, he went for the ham ($5).
It came with onion and relish, and despite being described as a toasted sandwich by the waiter, it was a real toastie pie. He loved it. I had poached eggs on Turkish bread, with a side of sausages ($9). The eggs were free-range, with bright yolks.
Delicious.
The service was fine - nothing special, but adequate and friendly.
The coffee was prompt and strong but not particularly hot.
We recommend if you come here you take the time to read all those old ads. How times have changed.
Overall, we thought it's a nice little cafe, cheap and cheerful, interesting choice of music, good fun and clearly a local for many.
