Rosehip Cafe, Parnell

By JAN CORBETT

Truth be told, we were on our way to enjoy the delights of brunch somewhere else entirely, passing the obviously popular Rosehip Cafe on the way. So when we found our preferred destination disappointingly shut, we swung the little car around and headed back to what looked like Parnell's favoured brunching spot.

Helen thought it too chilly for a seat outside, even with the protection of the perspex weather shields, but luckily one became available in the white and bright interior.

Service at Rosehip is of the "read the blackboard and queue at the counter" variety. The counter, by the way, is groaning with its own food offerings, including a range of wonderful looking friands.

Helen went for eggs benedict - "with bacon", she mouthed to me across the room, ($16.50). I let my sweet tooth get the better of me and ordered the "special" - pancakes with plums, syrup and creme fraiche ($16.50), but I was disappointed. I wished instead I'd gone for the more adventurous offerings of breakfast salad, or something wonderful with mushrooms that the wait staff kept walking by with.

Coffees were excellent, the people-watching opportunities extremely satisfying, and it's not a place people are afraid to take their children to.

We decided to complete our Parnell adventure by popping into an apartment showing. Just $1.7 million and it could have been ours.

Ambience: Parnell casual chic

Service: Excellent

Parking: outside