Herald Rating: 3/5
Address: 571 Great North Rd
We came here because it was late, and we'd heard these guys did an all-day breakfast.
Parking was right outside on the one-way street at the back of the cafe. Easy.
We walked in and immediately thought it's a lot more spacious than it appears from the street, with plenty of seating options. The deck is perfect for those who like to be outdoors but in the shade - we opted for the dappled light of the corner table.
The most unusual thing on the menu is the sauteed liver and mushrooms on brioche with brandy and mustard.
We ordered the eggs benedict with bacon ($15.50), the salmon and spinach scrambled eggs ($15.50) and a tropical smoothie ($6). The bene had nicely poached eggs, crisp bacon and a tough, dry bagel. The scram was big enough to share - I estimated at least five eggs had been massacred for my benefit - piled on to three slices of fluffy ciabatta. The salmon chunks were delicious but the unseasoned eggs weren't elevated in the flavour department by a side of hollandaise sauce. The smoothie was thick, chunky and sweetened with honey.
The coffee was hot and creamy but could have been stronger.
The service was great. Our meals arrived quickly, with a smile.
We recommend if you come here bring the littlies. Kids get their own menu and play area and there's lots of room for pushchairs.
Overall we thought it's a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of joint, with big, hearty meals and a casual, Grey Lynn atmosphere.
