Platform 7, Glen Eden

By GRAHAM HEPBURN for canvas

About the only pleasure to be had from waiting for the train at Glen Eden Station is the chance to duck into the Platform 7 cafe. So, when there's a problem with the trains (such as points failure, engine breakdown, trees on the line, general incompetence ... you get my drift) there's nothing for it but to retire to the old stationmaster's building for a good coffee and to ponder the injustices inflicted by TranzMetro.

On this Saturday morning, though, we were here for food, not travel, and contentedly stretched out with the newspaper as trains rumbled by. In stark contrast to the often disgruntled rail commuter, the efficient staff at this homely cafe are endlessly cheerful and friendly.

The chalkboard on the wall above the counter has quite a range of offerings: the usuals such as the big breakfast and eggs benedict, as well as waffles, pancakes, quesadillas, wraps, panini and a range of pies, tarts, muffins and cakes in the cabinet - and a selection of salads for those in more of a lunch than breakfast mood. They also offer wheat-free bread for those who have sensitive systems.

Jane's creamy mushrooms on French toast with bacon ($11) was mountainous and well-received, but resisted her best attempts to finish it. My big breakfast ($13), with perfectly poached eggs, bacon, hash browns, and tomato was spot-on and complemented by a couple of potent coffees. Sophie had the kid's meal ($5) and rapturously smeared a fluffy about her face and anything else in the vicinity.

The only downside to this pleasant cafe is that it opens to a sheltered outdoor area on the shady south side because health and safety regulations won't allow it to be open on to the train platform to the north.

Former name: Whistle Stop Cafe

Hours: 7.30am-4pm weekdays, 8.30pm-3.30pm Saturday, 9.30pm-3pm Sunday

Service: Smooth and efficient

Ambience: Friendly, relaxed

Parking: Plenty around the train station

* Read more about what's happening in the world of food, wine, party places and entertainment in canvas magazine, part of your Weekend Herald print edition.