Bambina, Ponsonby

Photo / Martin Sykes

We came here because we had an hour to spare before the shops opened on Saturday morning and the smell of coffee coming from Bambina was too tempting.

Parking was right outside at 8am on a weekend. You probably wouldn't be so lucky later in the day or during the week.

We walked in and immediately thought ah, lots of space, plenty of interesting magazines to read and a very tempting menu. The brioches on the counter made our mouths water.

The most unusual thing on the menu was not that unusual, but very appealing — ricotta hotcakes with fresh fruit ($13.50).

We ordered poached eggs on five-grain toast ($8.50) with a side of aged gouda ($3), "half and half" (fresh fruit and toast, $11.50) and a spelt bagel with preserves ($6).

The service was terrific. Admittedly there were only a handful of customers at that time of day but the staff are helpful and welcoming.

The coffee was spot-on.

We recommend if you come here you park yourself at the huge communal table in the middle of the cafe, which is well-stocked with great reading material, and relax.

Overall, we thought Bambina is a haven from the busyness of Ponsonby Rd. And don't forget to get one of the delicious brioches to take away.