Herald rating:
The menu is largely made up of traditional cafe fare (cue bagels, smashed avocado, eggs benedict) but the main point of difference seems to be their kumara sourdough, featured in all of the dishes requiring bread.
The look from the outside is attractive, located in one of the magnificent red brick heritage buildings that originally housed the Blind Institute. Step inside, however, and the cafe is divided into two dining areas, one narrow and relatively unremarkable, the other more spacious and light, lined on one side by windows.
We ordered the creamy balsamic mushrooms with Spanish chorizo on kumara sourdough ($16), poached eggs on kumara sourdough with bacon ($15) and a cheese scone ($4.50) from the cabinet to fill the hole while waiting for the meals. The scone was light and fluffy to perfection and the breakfasts,speedily delivered, were top quality. The kumara sourdough was definitely worth the effort.
The coffee was Allpress brand and just fine. The service was pleasant and amazingly fast for a busy Saturday morning. The kitchen seemed well-staffed; a good thing too, as it appears to be a popular venue. We had been lucky to find a table, people arriving after us had to wait a while.
