Marua Road Cafe — Restaurant in Maungakiekie-Tāmaki

Would NOT recommend! Shockingly poor service. Went there this morning and asked for a cold matcha latte and got a spoonful of matcha powder dumped into a glass of cold milk (see photo - tasted exactly like it looks - a glass of milk with undissolved matcha powder). Politely raised this with a waitress and she gave me nasty looks and attitude and immediately shot me down with, "That's how you make it." Told her that I did not want it as I was not satisfied with it and she eyerolled me and rudely took it off my table. The manager then brings back the SAME glass with more matcha powder dumped in and says, "I've added more matcha in". Tried explaining that the issue is this is NOT how you make a matcha latte and he immediately retorts, "This is how you make it. All our customers like it like this". Told him I didn't want it. Same waitress from before gave me another nasty look again later as she walked past. Went to pay at the end of our meal and the manager quietly charged me for the matcha latte and said nothing about it so I had to pay for something that was not made properly and that I didn't even drink. Apple pie was super dry as well. Coffee that was meant to be "large" was just your regular normal sized coffee cup. Overall will never go back. Unprofessional and below average food and drinks.

Edit: Shocked that the manager is dishonest and lying about me giving him attitude. Appalling. Taking the drink away and simply chucking more powder into the drink, and then expecting the customer to be happy with that, and THEN charging them for it, is not the solution. My friend who wrote a review was at the cafe too so has every right to write a review. I have several friend who own cafes and this is NOT how you make matcha latte. The photo speaks for itself. I can also see several low reviews mentioning rude attitudes from staff so it clearly is...

Absolutely 5 stars! This café is a hidden gem with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to come back again and again. The owner is incredibly friendly and takes the time to chat with customers, creating a genuine connection that adds a personal touch to every visit. It’s clear that they truly care about both their craft and their community.

The coffee here is simply outstanding—rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed every time. Whether you’re after a strong espresso, a silky flat white, or something sweet and creative, you won’t be disappointed. They use high-quality beans, and the difference is noticeable.

Service is another major highlight. Even during busy times, the staff stays upbeat, attentive, and efficient. Orders come out quickly, and everything is presented with care. It’s rare to find a spot that balances speed with such a high level of service.

It’s the kind of place where you feel appreciated as a customer, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. If you’re looking for a café that consistently delivers on quality, friendliness, and overall experience, look no further. Highly recommended for anyone who loves great coffee and even...

Kia ora, we had decided to stop in before heading to work near by. I'm not here to discredit their standards, more to advise on reviewing certain dishes. I ordered the Egg's Benedict with Salmon, my sister ordered the Big Breakfast, her's was totally fine, great portioning etc, presentation was nice, she enjoyed her meal! However, what I received was not what I was expecting at all! Had never had salmon look like it was from a can, drained and heated up. Was so dry!! Unfortunately was not in the mood to take a photo nor send it back as our time was limited. Did speak with their lovely waitress and explained my meal and to let the chef know. Not seeking a refund or anything, I did get an explanation of a process of how they smoke their salmon onsite, that they must have over smoked it?! The point is this should never be served, and yes I should have returned it. The Boost smoothie price also needs to be reviewed, over priced and not a smoothie, runny, was served in a take out when we were dinning in. I've worked in hospitality for a number of year's and the dish I received would not be served at all! Take as advice please, that is...