Honey cafe in Takapuna. Photo / Nick Reed
Address: 12 Huron St, Takapuna
Herald rating:
The look is slightly Scandinavian - one created by founder Jules and pimped by new owner Lloyd, who clearly has an eye for vintage collectables: more colour, more plants, a recycled window forming a booth for bigger, noisier groups. It was too windy to sit outside on our visit but
come summertime, there are umbrellas and patio seating.
The food is super-fresh and clean, with the obligatory reference to paleo alongside the brioche french toast or hotcakes. Pea and halloumi fritters ($17.50) were just right for brekky, particularly with the best crispy bacon side, while the healthy one had the light and balance salad of brown rice, goat's cheese and vege goodies ($17.50) with a tofu side ($3). But we wished we'd had more of the halloumi, which was perfectly done. The tropical smoothie ($8) was a meal in itself, and we loved our lemon ginger honey house sodas ($6.50). Lloyd has added Korean touches - kimchi with the brekky tacos - and next time we'll be back for the Malaysian-style sticky black rice and coconut with bananas.
The coffee is Honey's own blend from Atomic coffee, from a bright and happy yellow machine. A sunny start to the day for the long black and flat white.
The service was similarly happy - sweet and efficient. It's a good sign when the owner is walking the floor, greeting regulars and talking up the next visit.
