Cafes

It’s that warm, old-school hospitality with a smile from seasoned hospitality professionals that I get right away—yet it also feels like rocking up to a friend’s place, when they ask if I’m hungry yet. Welcome to Za'atar Bakehouse, your new breakfast spot.

When Roses Dining Room closed earlier this year, the hospitality and wider community were shook. But it wasn’t long until they announced there was another venture in the works—and along came Blue. 

Found on the ground floor of the Beca building, all-day eatery, Mensa is the perfect spot to soak up that glorious sunshine, ideally with a coffee and slice of freshly baked sourdough pizza in hand. 

You probably already know Lulu’s. 

It’s a Tuesday night in Auckland city but you’d easily mistake it for the weekend at Sumi. The new izakaya spot by owner-chef Jason Lee (Wakuwaku, Katsu Katsu, Tsuru Tsuru) in City Works Depot is humming.

Funny that the first thing I noticed about Kinfolk had little to do with the actual food—rather, it was the artwork on the back wall depicting three women on lilos, eating pasta. I like this place already, had been my immediate thought.

Neat Cakes is now open for walk-ins. 

It seems like 269 Parnell was under construction for millennia, so much so that we’d long stopped expecting anything to materialise behind it. 

The famous cinnabun from Hill House Cafe has returned to South Auckland.

From Charles and Patrick Williams—the good folks who brought us Williams, one of Tāmaki's most frothed cafes (by restaurant royalty and hungry punters alike)—comes Bowler, a bangin' salad and açaí bowl pitstop tucked inside Les Mills on Victoria Street. 

It all started as a gelato dream for Hannah Engelsman, founder and CEO (a.k.a official title as Gelato Fanatic) of Little ‘Lato. 

If Wes Anderson hung up his director's hat and opened a cafe, it'd be the kind of place with pastel margaritas, diabolically cool wallpaper, and eggs benedict topped in fluffy, candyfloss-coloured hollandaise. 

An idyllic tea space has brought all the comfort and ease of the Third Space to a champagne glass. Here, life pauses. Here, it’s all about drinking tea and blissing out. In fact, that’s exactly what the name means ‘cha’ being the Chinese word for tea and ‘bliss’, well, we could all do with more of that on the daily. 

From the smoky depths of Grey Lynn, there’s a new pitmaster in town—and a hot contender for the best BBQ joint of the year.

Never have we ever had a toasted sandwich quite like Toasty's.

When the Manurewa-based eatery Hill House Cafe got its marching orders from Nathan Homestead for seismic works our collective hearts dropped. But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Hill House has announced that they are moving to a new historic home—Pah Homestead in the stunning Monte Cecilia Park in Hillsborough. Hell yes. 

The wonderful world of Japanese-Italian cuisine has just landed in Ponsonby. The name ‘Itameshi’ is the Japanese word for Italian food and, in essence, that’s exactly what’s being served. While you could call it ‘fusion’, a word that’s become a catch-all phrase for culinary eclecticism (which there’s nothing wrong with, by the way), we hesitate to do so—as Itameshi’s menu, created by 30-year-old chef Roy Yu, is elevated in a way we’ve never seen before. 

If you're looking for the best breakfast in Te Atatū—or Auckland, even—let us introduce you to Neil Cafe. Nestled in the heart of Te Atatū Peninsula along Neil Avenue (get it?), this groovy little spot is serving up some seriously delish brunch dishes, including a game-changing take on poached eggs.

All hail The Muriwai Deli, back open after a devastating enforced closure due to the havoc wreaked by last year's Cyclone Gabrielle. But now the boys are back stronger than ever. Opening from 8am Friday to Sunday and now on Friday and Saturday evenings at the brand-spanking new bar, come through for a bevvie or two.  

Ellerslie Village stalwart Pastrami & Rye has been delighting customers since first opening its doors back in 2016 and rather than rest on their laurels, the bowtie and flat cap-wearing team's creativity just keeps on coming.

Meet Domo Bakery, Takapuna's newest Asian-inspired cafe with a twist that's taking Auckland's pastry scene by storm. Newly nestled in the heart of this vibrant coastal community, Domo is already capturing the hearts and palates of croissant connoisseurs far and wide (Hamiltonians, we see you!).

‘Veggies are boring.’ Oh pleeease. Here to put that myth firmly to bed is Auckland’s dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurant, Forest, who are here to show you just how remarkable your five-a-day can truly be.

Update: Folds Patisserie will be hitting pause with their last trading day Sunday 6 July 2025 and are currently taking requests for what you want to feast up on before they close. Owner Wendy is adament it's just a bye for now and have plans to return (in some form) in 2026. 

If one was to pick and mix their favourite elements of any eatery into one gorgeous daytime destination, chances are the end result would look a little something like Dulcie. 

Spilt Milk has been feeding hungry Point Chevalier tums since 2016 and they're still going strong. Tucked away in an arcade on Great North Road, you’ll want to make the bright and light café your new local.

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Point Chevalier’s new addition makes a sweet case for why it should be the centrepiece of your daily feeds. 

A definite must-try on any foodie's list, Britomart's Amano consistently serves up a mean breakfast, lunch and dinner, whatever you're craving. If you're up for freshly-baked melt-in-the-mouth pastries, breads and other delights, join the queue for a taste of what Aucklanders have known ever since Amano first opened in 2016—this is the only way to start your day.  

Pancakes, step aside, because The Wafflers are finally in town, bringing you deliriously delicious Korean-style Croffles and Waffles.

Imagine everything you want in an elevated fast food joint, and you’ll find that—plus some—at the newly-opened Brew’d Hawt in South Auckland. 

A grand favourite of the brunch scene has swung open its recently remodelled ivy-draped doors, extending its hours and offerings in the chicest return possible.

If there’s one thing that the French do magnificently, it’s food. Case in point: Mt Albert’s Little French Cafe. Taking over the spot where Pyrénées once stood and described as classic French with a twist, this charming little café, bakery and patisserie has had a complete revamp and is where you can find all of the gallic foodie goodness you know and love—and discover some new obsessions. 

We’ve found the perfect brunch spot for you to sink your teeth into—say hello to Chur Bae, a hip eatery that’s dishing out the goods.

The North Shore food scene is on fire right now, with Duo Eatery the latest spot to set our appetites alight. Located on Birkenhead's iconic Hinemoa Street, this is the newest venture from Jordan Macdonald of Culprit and Lowbrow fame (and the first with his talented wife, Sarah) and as to be expected—it's an absolute treat.

Is there anything better than sinking your teeth into some freshly baked goods? We think not. Oh wait, what about vegan baked goods? 

Sitting pretty on a corner site in Greenlane is Pikuniku, a cute new neighbourhood eatery dishing up brunch with a delicious Japanese twist. 

Ooh la la, a gorgeous new French patisserie has finally opened downtown and it's definitely been worth the wait. After sitting out the worst of the pandemic in a lush site on the corner of Customs and Gore Street, it's just opened its sleek doors this week. We're talking about Javalab, which is serving up incredible baked goods and a range of experimental, Fairtrade coffee brews and blends from its spot on the ground floor of the recently re-opened SO/ Auckland hotel. Authentic French treats are the name of the game here—think macarons, eclairs and croissants, along with toasted burritos and hot-pressed paninis for the savoury fans. Oui, oui, oui.

Here at Urban List, brunching is one of our favourite past-times. That said, sniffing out new spots in which to indulge this delicious hobby is forever on our minds, which is where Sparrow comes in. We've only just discovered this cute lil' cafe, nestled in an unlikely spot amongst Epsom's car dealerships, but we're already firm fans.

Taking pride of place on an elevated corner site in Royal Oak, Five Elements Café Bistro is a great spot to watch the world go by while enjoying an elevated menu boasting original fare that punches well above its weight. Now open for evening service offering tapas and hearty main dishes—the slow-braised lamb shoulder is particularly good—bring some mates and order a few dishes to share.

First, it was Auckland CBD, then it was Royal Oak, now it's Pakuranga's turn to welcome Mighty Hotdog to the neighbourhood. You'll find them at 131 Pepler Street, Pakuranga Plaza, slinging their highly addictive brand of Korean-style hotdogs on a stick (that means fried to perfection, rolled in sugar-yes, sugar-then loaded with your fave sauces and other toppings). Hot damn.

If you know cookies, you know Moustache (aka the crew that bought us that gigantic 12-person Caramilk cookie pie and about a gazillion other equally delicious creations). Well now they've opened a shop on Cavendish Drive in Manukau, and it's everything you'd expect it to be and more. Prepare for serious circus vibes as you step right up into a glorious yellow space complete with strings of glowing lights and a merry-go-round inspired central counter.

Stylish new spot Atelier Shu on Kent Street (formally on Faraday in Parnell) could easily be mistaken for an art gallery, what with its minimalist fit-out, however, it's actually a patisserie. Taking traditional European-style pastries and blending them with Asian flavours, the result is unique and tasty treats (think madeleines, tarts and one of our all-time faves, canelés) that look like, well, works of art.  

There's nothing wrong with taking the slow lane sometimes, especially if it involves coffee and croffles are we right? Enter Slowlane, a new all-day eatery (and our fave new foodie haven!) from &Sushi founders Isaac Yu and Jeff Kim, located—rather ironically—on the famously busy Great South Road in Greenlane.

We’ve found the perfect brunch spot for you to sink your teeth into—say hello to Blend, a classy eatery in Botany that’s dishing out all the goods. The menu is a foodie haven and offers a twist on traditional cafe food. The impressive lineup consists of a Korean take on the cult fave spag bol, a finger-licking crispy fried chicken, kimchi fried rice with scrambled eggs, a pecking braised lamb bowl—and that’s just to name a few.

What was once Hammer & Tongs Food Stop based in Silverdale has now rebranded to H&T Kitchen and moved to the central city but it remains the spot for all things healthy and wholesome. The team use quality and ethically sourced ingredients to put on a menu that changes daily, to celebrate the best of the season. Forget those soggie sammies and microwaved pies, H&T Kitchen is all about slow and fresh. With offerings to go, they’re a fabulous alternative to your usual lunch-break pie, providing the wholesome goodness we always knew we needed.

Bread & Butter Bakery and Café in Grey Lynn sits pretty just down the lane behind Farro Fresh and serves up irresistible bread and cakes, as well as a delicious menu of breakfast and lunch options.

Purveyors of comfort-food-lashed street-style dogs, Good Dog Bad Dog, have set up shop at Ormiston Town Centre. Here, you’ll find the carby creations you know and love from their original Commercial Bay store—all dished up from a fun, mustard and tomato-toned restaurant of their own.

Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and dine in calmer surroundings. So, if you feel like adventuring your tastebuds elsewhere then listen up.

Ahhh toast, the humble food that just keeps on giving. It’s the perfect brekkie companion, a great lunch option and even makes for a crackin' dinner too. 

If there’s one thing that’s been missing from Auckland’s diverse dining scene—it’d have to be a dedicated chocolate bar. Addressing the need we didn’t know we had is one of NZ’s premier chocolatiers Honest Chocolat. Expanding operations from their Matakana home village, Honest Chocolat has opened a beautiful chocolate boutique on the ground floor of Commercial Bay. 

Goodness Bistro is aptly named – as soon as you walk into the elegant eatery in the newly refurbished Britomart precinct, you won't stop saying ‘Oh My Goodness’. Not least, because everything they make is gluten-free, vegan, organic, paleo and free from refined sugar.

If, like us, you shed a tear when Bread & Butter upped sticks from Milford, we've got some news that's going to make you very happy. A new café called Supernova has taken over the space, and it's bringing with it some pretty solid (some might even say super) grub.

If you love macarons but, like us, are sometimes searching for a little extra filling, get along to Daldang stat where they specialise in 'Fatcarons'—generously stuffed versions of the French treat. Following their runaway success in the CBD, this sweet little store has opened a second, larger store in Newmarket. 

Chill out on your workday at eco-conscious spot The Humble Canteen in the leafy Wynyard Quarter for the ultimate lunch break.

When it comes to coffee, it’s safe to say L’affare know their stuff, having perfected the art of coffee roasting for the last 30 years. Originally hailing from Wellington, the granddaddy of New Zealand’s coffee industry, L’affare have stretched their wings to Newmarket, with the eclectic Melrose Street as their second home.

Live out your wildest ice cream dreams at Mövenpick's brand new boutique in Mt Eden. Serving up a legit feast of ice-cold confections as well as ridiculously good desserts including a mind-blowing share plate with all the trimmings, this is a must visit for fans of the cool stuff.

The brains behind well-known eateries Winona Forever, Major Tom, Fang, Barbarinos and many more, Fran Mazza and Aaron Carson, have done it again but this time they’re bringing their Italian flare to a cute little spot in Avondale. Say hello to Piccolina—an Italian themed eatery, bakery, deli, heck they do everything!   

Named for Ponsonby’s old moniker after a certain Captain Dedwood—who we’re convinced was a lively old soul back in 1845—Dedwood Deli is a cute eatery which exudes rustic charm and wholesomeness. 

We all need a good local bar, right? Well, residents of Mount Albert listen up! If you haven't set foot into The Albert Cafe & Bar yet, then now's the time to explore your new local. 

Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology (hence the name) Antheia’s Loft prides itself on delivering top-notch grub made from fresh, healthy ingredients and sourced by local suppliers. So if you’re after something healthy to kickstart your day then Antheia’s has got your back. 

We’ve found the perfect breakfast spot for you to sink your teeth into—say hello to Benedict’s, a classy eatery that’s dishing out the goods. 

Foodies, meet Cloud 777 Café—a blissful haven for a Saturday brunch, workday snack or that all-important caffeine hit. 

Tucked away behind Epsom's main shopping strip inside what was once a fully-fledged flour mill, lies one of those spots that'll have you coming back time and time again (even, we might add, if you live on the other side of Auckland).

If you love macarons but, like us, are sometimes searching for a little extra filling, get along to Daldang stat. Located at the top of Queen Street, right next to the entrance for the Four Points Sheraton, this newcomer specialises in 'Fatcarons'—generously stuffed versions of the French treat.

Auckland’s much-loved bakery Daily Bread is spreading its wings to take over the city—and we’re here for it.

A bustling new eatery—Lobster & Tap—has just opened in the heart of the iconic Auckland Fish Market, specialising in premium Canadian wild caught lobster rolls. Be still our beating hearts. Like the best things in life, your choices here are short and succinct. 

This isn’t simply a place to go grab a coffee or have a bite to eat. Tucked away in Westmoreland Street West in Grey Lynn, Ozone Coffee is an experience. 

Hēmi is the latest addition to the lineup of delicious eateries owned by the Miller family. Alongside Mint Kitchen Catering and Thinkfood, which challenges the way you think about nutrition by creating meal plans made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Hēmi is no different, in fact the new eatery's menu is designed with allergies and dietary requirements in mind—with capable head chef James Miller producing delicious creations in the kitchen. 

With food waste and climate change rising exponentially in the last ten years, the team at Everybody Eats is most definitely on a mission. By taking raw items and ingredients that would otherwise be wasted, this pay-as-you-feel system works to feed the community (and not just those living below the poverty line). So come one, come all… to a welcoming and heartwarming space. And get ready to fill your belly to the brim, with food, glorious food. 

Tucked away in Browns Bay is A-Block, a must-try café serving up breakfast favourites with a hot cup of their signature in-house roasted coffee blend. Our pick for a memorable brunch dish goes to the Not So Frenchie, an out of the ordinary French toast. Double-baked bread and butter pudding is soaked overnight, coated in oats and deep fried. If that’s not enough, they plate it up on a pile of Oreo crumble with poached rhubarb. It’s adorned with a whole poached pear (covered in sliced almonds) and premium vanilla Kapati ice cream. Loosen your belts. 

It's no wonder the Auckland foodie scene is raving about Rebel Rebel. Found on Fanshawe Street, this little gem serves tapa-style all-day brunch. Don't miss the Swedish meatballs, slow-roasted lamb, breakfast sliders and mind-blowing french pastries. A welcome break from the daily hustle, this spot is well worth checking out.

It's no wonder the Auckland foodie scene is raving about Newbie cafe. Found in the Mercury Building in Newmarket, this little gem serves modern Kiwi classics done right. Don't miss the peppered lamb pappardelle, always green bowl and mind blowing house-made doughnuts. Round up the squad and check this spot out on your next day out, you won't regret it. 

Synonymous with seriously good and healthy foods, the amazing deli that is Jess' Underground Kitchen is now on Parnell turf where it's dishing out all the feel-good foods we know and love. It's the perfect place to pop by if you're in need of a healthy, hearty and homely meal or snack with their stellar range of breads, sammies, salads and frozen foods ready for you to grab on the go.

Just Like Martha is an epic cafe serving classics with a modern twist. Found under the Obsidian apartments on Mt Eden Road, this spot is a brunch lover's dream come true. For those with a sweet tooth, look no further than the ultra-grammable French Toast. Or, opt for the epic double buttermilk, fried chicken burger served on a bed of french fries. On the go? Check out their front-of-house cabinet for classic Kiwi baking done right.  

If the words bold and beautiful were ever used to describe a café, that café would be Harlan Pepper Food Co. Situated in the hip Kingsland foodie scene, get ready for Instagrammable dishes that will have you saying, “it’s too pretty to eat.”

Found in Victoria Park Market, Captain Crêpes will take you to the streets of Paris with just one bite. Don't miss the Hispaniola, packed with nutella, banana and coconut, it's the ultimate sweet treat. Or opt for a savoury gallette, the Demeter features tomatoes, egg, provolone cheese and mixed her all rapped up in a crispy buckwheat shell—perfect for those on the go.

Found on Saint Marks Road, Snö is nothing short of legendary. From the team behind Dear Jervois, the menu boasts classics done right with a Scandinavian touch. Our top picks include the Swedish blueberry waffles, loaded with fresh fruit and nuts, and the vegan-friendly roasted aubergine served on Innocent loaf. For those on the go, look no further than their house-made muffins—before they sell out that is. Light, bright and utterly delicious, Snö is a must-visit. 

Duck Island's Auckland store is all sorts of delicious. Found on Ponsonby Road, they're serving up scoops of whacky and wonderful ice cream creations, unlike anything you've ever tasted. Think white chocolate and miso, cinnamon and chilli, blueberry sweetcorn and peanut butter caramel cookie. While you're at it, give their ice cream sandwiches and tacos a try, you won't regret it. 

Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen is showing Aucklanders it deserves the top spot on your must-visit café list. Cue mouth-watering French toast, charcoal lattes and doughnut towers—we’re sold.

From the team behind Mt. Eden's popular Rad Cafe, is Mr. T’s. This Onehunga cafe-slash-bakery is a fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine. The menu features chocolate chip French toast, Bánh Mí Xíu Mai (Vietnamese meatballs), and a wicked smashed avo. If you don't have time to sit and eat, take some of the delicious bites home from the bakery—we recommend Mr. T’s infamous sourdough. With recipes perfected over years of trial and error, their loaves won’t disappoint. 

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Your one-stop spot on the daily hustle, Mutual Friends is an essential for your daily routine. Found on Morgan Street in QB Studios in Newmarket, the slick space houses a cabinet jam-packed with bites perfect for those on the go. Don’t miss their epic waffle creations, sweet treats or fresh acai bowls topped with all the goodness. Pair with expertly brewed All Press coffee and you’ll leave sorted, sane and ready to take on the world. 

Found at the Chelsea Sugar Factory, Sugar is an all-day eatery that’s sure to hit everyone’s sweet spot. Soak in the sun in the atrium, nibbling on some of the most gorgeous eats in town while soaking in the stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour. The menu features instant ‘gram-worthy classics almost too gorgeous to eat.. almost. Don’t miss the vegan summer salad, gorgeous French toast and an out-of-this-world high tea experience. 

Situated in the historic Auckland War Memorial Museum, Espresso Bar 1929 is named after the year the iconic building and monument to our fallen soldiers was built. 

From the brilliant minds behind Winona Forever and Major Tom, Rude Boy is a central hub for delicious food. Found on Sale Street, the bustling Rude Boy features a fresh, spacious ultra-grammable fit out. A gorgeous as they are tasty, the eats won’t leave you disappointed. From a scrumptious cabinet to the rich brownie waffles and drool-worthy Persian meatballs there’s a little something for everyone in this inner city haven of delicious. 

The oven at Forrest Hill cafe William Souter Espresso gets a good workout, judging by the overflowing mounds of baked cakes, tarts, and slices. There’s not enough space for it all, so platters of ready-to-go sandwiches, rolls, and savoury scones are piled on the top surface of the cabinet. It’s a baker’s delight and a hungry customer’s dream.

From the team behind foodie faves Winona Forever and Major Tom, Friday I’m In Love is an inner city gem you don’t want to miss. Featuring an ever-changing menu, no two visits will be the same! From a scrumptious front cabinet boasting sweet treats galore to whacky and wonderful creations such as the buckwheat crepes, this treasure is a must for any Auckland foodie. 

Little & Friday is the ultimate sweet treats destination. This epic cafe, found in Takapuna on Auckland's North Shore, is sure to impress, whether you’re after a mid-day snack or a dose of caffeine. From cakes and brioches, to wonderful filled rolls and some of the best coffee around, Little & Friday is where you want to be when the treat cravings hit—although you might have a bit of trouble deciding what to get. When in doubt, get a doughnut, it'll be the best you’ve had in Auckland. 

Boy oh boy! There’s a lot to love about Boy & Bird in Ponsonby. They have a mantra of “eat, drink and be humble”, so we have a sneaky suspicion you’ll love the chicken eatery as much as we do!

Found on the ever booming Hurstmere Rd, So French is the new cafe, deli and patisserie hybrid you don’t want to miss. From traditional bites to classics with flair, there’s a little something here for everyone. These guys are dishing up epic burgers, hearty soups and some of the best crêpes in town. It's pretty much your one-stop-shop if you're craving a Parisian holiday (but can't save up the mullah to get to Europe). And we can confirm the Meebz South American blend goes pretty well with a cheeky croissant. 

Woolfy's is an eastern gem that will have you falling in love at first bite. Sit back, relax and sip away on fresh brews surrounded by the epic modern fit-out. Keeping the party going from morn to arvo, both the breakfast and lunch menus are served all day long. Whether it be a burger for breakfast or omelette for lunch, the possibilities are endless! 

Editor’s Note: This venue is permanently closed

Egg and Spoon, is a brunch-lover's dream come true. Solely dedicated to the humble egg, this St. Kevins Arcade spot features a stellar lineup of egg-citing eats! The egg-themed fit out serves some everything from a wicked brekkie burger to the sweet scramble and even an epic vegan BLAT. You’re going to want to get cracking and check these guys out. Stat!