Ngopi is truly a social business, in more ways than one. This central city cafe provides a meeting place for everyone from the lawyers and judges of the courts nearby to hungry university students and anyone else who's discovered this haven for morning coffee or sensational Malaysian food.
The big difference is that this eatery is a not-for-profit enterprise staffed by volunteers and any profits generated are redistributed to the two charities Ngopi supports: A21 Campaign, a movement to prevent human trafficking and help recover the victims of it, and Habitat for Humanity, which assists in reducing homelessness.
The eclectic fit-out is the result of extensive online scouring to pick up retro fittings and furniture as well as the design and building skills of Summit Renovations' Joe Moncur, who supports Ngopi wherever he can. He built their cabinet and counter because it's his favourite place to go for lunch.
Not only is the food at Ngopi fabulous - bowls and plates of laksa and char koay teow are easily as good as any you'd get in Malaysia - but you can feel good knowing that, through your coffee and lunch spend, you're supporting a good cause.
Now that's what we call community spirit.
• Ngopi, 79 Anzac Ave, Auckland Central, ph (09) 303 4172. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-3pm.
