Herald rating: * * *
4155 Great North Rd, Glen Eden
KEY POINTS:
We came here because it was Labour Weekend - time to plant tomatoes - so we were on a hunt for beefsteak, cherry and supertom plants. Plant shopping and brunch all in the same spot sounded a great idea.
Parking was in the generous carpark. No problems there, even on a holiday weekend.
We walked in and immediately thought the light, tropical feel of the cafe is welcoming and very fitting with its place within a garden centre. We loved the nikau palms sculpted from copper.
The most unusual thing on the menu didn't exist. All very breakfast standard fare - eggs, pancakes, bagels, etc.
We ordered poached eggs on ciabatta toast ($10.50) with a side of field mushrooms ($4), eggs benedict with bacon ($15.50) and a bagel with bacon, tomato, avocado and tomato relish ($10). All were generous servings and the plates were almost licked clean, a good sign.
The service was great. The toddler's fluffy was forgotten but quickly arrived after we asked again.
The coffee was very strong - we could have done with half-strengths.
We recommend if you come here you make time to wander around the plant centre which not only has a rather good home accessories corner, it has a beauty spa too - so you can book a facial or a massage if choosing between marigolds and magnolias stresses you out too much.
Overall we thought we have been rather underwhelmed by other garden centre cafes in Auckland, but this one gets it right on all counts - big open space, modern menu and great counter food, nice staff. We'll be back.
