Auckland - like it's embittered cousin, Wellington - fondly imagines that its cafes are at the top of their game. Sadly, for anyone who's traveled through places like Paris or Hanoi, the fiction is apparent.
Domain & Ayr are the wonderful exception that disproves the rule.
We drive or cycle over from Botany (about 25km) to breakfast here several times a year. The service is truly good - and dependably so - the menu is refreshingly different (finally somewhere that understands good eating goes beyond eggs with mayo, sorry - eggs Benedict); the vegetarian/vegan options don't feel like 'oh yeah, and here's something for those of you that suck at hunting'. Carnivores find plenty to suit their ferocious appetites as well. Good coffee and a nice little spot. If you're a dog-lover (and what well adjusted biped isn't?) there's enough space outside for you to eat while the pooch drools and passes you endearing and ever-hopeful looks. Do yourself a favour, give 'em a go.
Guys (a tip: bloke-to-bloke) if you're looking for somewhere to take your blokette that is more than fancy decor (you can't eat curtains) and ridiculous prices, and where she'll get a pleasant surprise on the options, enjoy the cosy ambience, and keep you in brownie-points for the day (unless you go on to do something stupid, sadly and all too often my home-run swing) drag her there for a surprise brunch :-) read more