New Zealand is renowned for its good coffee and you usually don’t have to travel very far to find a decent one. Wellington, the capital, boasts more cafes per capita than New York City, and us Kiwis also lay claim to the invention of the flat white. Australia claim it was them, but there’s no denying that New Zealanders are massive fans of a little flattie in the morning! Here’s a list of tried and tested cafes for your next caffeine (and food) fix in Auckland:
Ripe Delicatessen, Ponsonby
172–174 Richmond Road
If you want some ridiculously tasty and freshly prepared food along with your cappuccino – this is the place to go. Located a ten minute walk from Ponsonby Central, Ripe Deli is the perfect place to stock up for a picnic in one of the nearby parks. If you don’t make it here, you should definitely at least check out their blog for some amazing recipes.
Chuffed, Auckland Central
43 High Street
This tucked away little spot on High Street is ideal if you’re in the city on a nice day. Sit outside on their terrace with a cold brew (or a cocktail) and take advantage of their all day breakfast. The coffee is exceptional here!
Honey Bones, Grey Lynn
480 Richmond Road
Fancy a bougie breakfast in the leafy central suburbs? At Honey Bones, you’ll find chia bowls and dairy-free smoothies right next to a classic eggs on toast. Everything’s free range and the coffee’s worth a trip!
Bestie, Auckland Central
St. Kevin’s Arcade, 179/183 Karangahape Road
If you’re visiting Auckland, you should walk down “K Road” at least once. Located in St. Kevin’s Arcade, Bestie is a much-loved cafe with an off-beat feel and great views of the Skytower and the palm trees of Myer’s Park.
Major Sprout, Auckland Central
21 Graham Street
On the west side of downtown Auckland, Major Sprout is a beautifully-designed, sophisticated brunch spot set in unassuming surrounds. More than once my sweet tooth has lead me to order their buttermilk pancakes with candy floss and ice cream (pictured above)… Can you blame me?
Ambler Café & Bistro, Point Chevalier
181 Point Chevalier Road
This all-day cafe/bistro is located in beachside Point Chevalier, in the western central suburbs. The menu has a French twist, with croque monsieur and French pastries on offer, among many other delicious items. Ambler is open from breakfast to dinner, differing from most New Zealand cafés which often close in the early afternoon.
Homestead, Hillsborough
72A Hillsborough Road
Homestead is located within Pah Homestead, a historic home in Monte Cecilia Park, Hillsborough. After coffee and a bite to eat on the breezy verandah, perhaps wander around the arts centre that shares the building or go for a walk in the park.
Little & Friday, Newmarket
11 McColl Street
Fancy your coffee with a picture-perfect sweet treat on the side? This is your place. Little & Friday has been up and running in Auckland for over a decade, using free range and organic produce to create delicious little masterpieces.
Catroux, Westmere
129 West End Road
Catroux are masters of cakes and catering, and their minimalist Westmere cafe is a great example of this. Come here for an amazing salad, an exceptional Allpress coffee, and a glass of fresh juice, followed by a walk down the road to the seashore.
Caffeteria Allpress, Freemans Bay
8 Drake Street
The front end of Allpress’ Auckland Roastery (where it all began) is Caffeteria Allpress, where you can smell the coffee roasting and choose from all of their blends. While you’re there, check out the adjoining Allpress Studio, featuring a variety of artists, designers, and other groups exhibiting in the space.
Special mention: Crumb, Grey Lynn
Since I left Auckland I’ve seen quite a few of my friends mention this little gem in their Instagram stories so I thought I better include it. I have yet to visit myself, but I’ve heard that both the coffee and doughnuts are amazing. Also, Crumb’s owners are huge dog lovers, and the cafe even serves treats for four legged friends!
