It was the first time the cafe had entered the competition, she said.
Cafe visitors voted by text for their favourite cafe and now the judges will choose an overall winner from the 18 finalists around the country.
The competition is in its second year and attracted votes from more than 45,000 cafe lovers for the 669 eateries that entered.
Last year's overall winner was Paper Moon in Mairangi Bay, Auckland, which is again a finalist in 2013.
Head judge Kerry Tyack said he and his fellow judges were impressed by the record number of entries. Cafe culture is thriving around the country, he said.
"Cafes that show a thorough appreciation of what it takes to keep customers happy are the ones who'll catch our eyes.
"We're looking for things such as a welcoming environment, great food and drink, pleasant, attentive service and reasonable pricing," Mr Tyack said.
He said judges want to see cafes being comfortable in what they offer rather than those trying to be everything to everyone and taking on the style of a bar or restaurant.
"Cafes are relaxed user-friendly places with casual, counter food some of which may be pre-prepared cabinet style, without loud music, extensive drinks menus and bistro food.
"It's not the wait-staff or chef on show, it's the customer who must hold centre court in a great cafe."
Mr Tyack says cafes serious about taking out the prizes should be on guard and not relax just because they think the judges may have visited.
"It is entirely possible they will be visited more than once so assessors can be certain the standards are consistent.
"Consistency is a key requirement of the winning cafe."
The winner will be announced in early December and its owners will drive away a Fiat 500S.
