Ponsonby reinforces cafe-capital status

'Cafe' magazine has named Sarah and Peter Wren's Ponsonby Rd business, Bambina, as New Zealand's best cafe. Picture / Richard Robinson

Ponsonby may be known as the cafe capital of New Zealand but it has taken eight years for any of its hip eateries to win a national award.

Bambina has now ended that embarrassing omission after being named best cafe in the country by Cafe magazine, which has been running the awards since 1998.

Bambina, which is on Ponsonby Rd, was runner-up in the Auckland region last year, and won that section this year as well as scooping the national title.

The national runner-up could have hardly been further away - the Beach House Cafe in Riverton, Southland.

Cafe publishing editor Michael Guy said Bambina stood out for its consistency of service.

He credited that to owners Peter and Sarah Wren, who maintained a high presence in the cafe.

Mr Guy also praised the large communal table piled with magazines, ranging from Fishing to Vogue, and newspapers.

The Wrens said the table had been a bit of a gamble but had helped to nail the cafe's success.

It was a comfortable way for people to come and have a break without feeling self-conscious, they said.

About 80 per cent of the customers were regulars, with many becoming good friends, said the couple.

The Beach House Cafe was praised for its food, "wonderfully welcoming" atmosphere and views of the surf.

Top New Zealand cafes

Selected regional winners and judges' comments:

* Fresh in Whangarei - modern, vibrant, extremely tasty fare.
* Leigh Sawmill Cafe - funky interior, excellent garden area, good coffee and beer.
* Sidetrack Cafe in Mt Maunganui - fresh and fantastic food, excellent coffee.
* Colenso Cafe in Whitianga - a must for country cafe lovers, herbs straight from garden.
* Lime in Rotorua - touch of retro, limited menu but always excellent.
* Scott's Epicurean in Hamilton - touch of New York, enticing, eclectic menu.
Source: Cafe magazine