Flax Cafe, Henderson Valley

The Flax Cafe at 308 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson. Photo / Greg Bowker.

308 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson Valley

We came here because we were out west on a bathroom renovation shopping mission and decided we needed some time out from selecting tapware and toilets.

Parking was easy, right outside.

We walked in and immediately thought there aren't many cafes in Auckland where you can see a very tame peacock strutting around the tables. The cafe is set on a rustic farm park and chickens et al can be seen wandering around.

The most unusual thing on the menu was the "hearty" mince on toast which comes with a fried potato cake and tomato relish ($13.50).

We ordered the Flax big breakfast (bacon, sausage or black pudding, scrambled eggs, grilled pesto tomatoes and creamy garlic mushrooms on toast, $18); poached eggs on toast with a side of creamy mushrooms and grilled tomatoes ($16.50); and chicken nuggets and fries ($9.50) for the small person. All were big servings and good, standard fare.

The service was excellent. Friendly and quick.

The coffee was okay. Not the highlight of the brunch. We recommend if you come here you visit the onsite farm park, Kiwi Valley — donkeys, baby animals, a maze, tractor and horse rides for the kids.

Overall we thought there are few better cafe settings. The park is a hidden gem in Auckland. Worth the trip west.