Brunch: Huia Foodstore, Huia

Huia Foodstore, Huia. Photo / Getty Images.

Address: 1194 Huia Rd, Huia
Phone: (09) 811 8113
Open: Monday-Thursday 8am-5pm, Friday-Sunday 8am-7.30pm
Cost: $50.90 for two people
Online: thehuiafoodstore.co.nz

SET UP & SITE

The Huia Foodstore is a bit of a drive from central Auckland, but our outing was motivated by more than just poached eggs. We were also hoping for 45 minutes of blissful quiet as our month-old baby slept on the way. Thankfully, she obliged.

Huia is a small community nestled in the Waitakere ranges, and the Foodstore
is its local. The day we visited it was surprisingly busy, but despite buzzing with locals and weekend visitors, there was plenty of pram-friendly parking.

Inside, it's an eclectic mix of cafe, general store and local meeting-point. Old plates decorate the walls, there are second-hand books for sale, and large jars of lollies available for those not scared of a bit of refined sugar. Outside, the beautiful harbour view means not much is needed beyond old-fashioned picnic tables in a courtyard by the road.

SUSTENANCE & SWILL

The menu is limited, and certainly hasn't bought into anything fancy - no halloumi or chia seeds on offer here. It has most of the usual brunch bases covered though, with options including a vege big brekkie ($21), homemade muesli with yoghurt and berry coulis ($10.50) and a smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel ($15). My meaty big brekkie had generous piles of bacon and chorizo, and perfectly poached eggs.

The salmon and cream cheese bagel came with capers and salad. There is plenty of appealing-looking counter food too, and proper scooped icecream for afterwards. The coffee is proudly made from local Mt Atkinson beans - which, we were told, are the "best in the West".

The Meaty Big Brekkie at the Huia Foodstore, Huia. Photo / Getty Images.

SERVICE & OTHER STUFF

The service was warm and chatty. Even our naughty dog was made to feel extra welcome, a bonus at a cafe near some popular dog-walking routes. There's also a feeling the Foodstore is a real part of the community. Brunch isn't the only thing on offer, Friday night is pie night, and it's famous for its burgers and fish 'n' chips. We will definitely be back - not just for the food and coffee but for the relaxing weekend outing as a whole. And for the blissfully sleeping baby, too.