If there is one type of establishment Auckland has got a lot of, it's cafes. In fact, I would wager that more people go out for breakfast or brunch at the weekend than go to church. Well, OK, I'm guessing. But having breakfast in a cafe is extremely popular and clientele are demanding in the quality of their coffee and food. But they are not just for breakfast. Many cafes open at night or even throughout the night and become more beer and wine based than java based. The atmosphere changes, the outfits change, but the quality of the food remains. So, if you are looking for a nice atmosphere but don't really feel like going to a club or bar, perhaps Auckland's cafe scene might be what you are after. Try the K' Road (Karangahape Road) area, Ponsonby, Parnell, Kingsland or even down on the Viaduct. All the food is pretty good, but keep an eye open for local seafood and lambs chioces. Good quality Kiwi pies are sometimes served as well as the usual quiches and bakes. And, if you are headed into a cafe for breakfast, don't forget this is the original raison d'etre of these places. The Kiwi Big breakfast (or the vegetarian version) is on almost every menu, as well as the ubiquitous Eggs Bene (Eggs benedict). You can also get muesli, eggs any way you like and toast or bagels. And the coffee, oh the coffee! Be sure to choose a place known for its coffee and you won't be disappointed. Crowds are a sure giveaway. The cafes on this list are also mostly open at night, so check out each one for its own individuality if you'd like to go out for a drink and a chat rather than just a boogie.
296 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby
Ponsonby archetype...
162 Garnet Road
Westmere
The secret is out...
24 Morrow Street
Newmarket
Tempting Delicatessen and Cafe...
85 Customs Street West
Cafe on the Viaduct...
447 Mt. Eden Road
Lively cafe in Mt. Eden Village...
434 Mount Eden Road
Street-Side Delights...
183 Karangahape Road
Hideaway with a view...
169 Karangahape Road
Organic produce and interesting clientele...
487 New North Road
The quintessential coffee lover's cafe...
25 Nuffield Street
Mediterranean Cafes in Auckland...