The Espy Cafe — Restaurant in North Island

We are locals and have been coming here for a long time and we just heard that there are new owners so we went and tried it and… not good. I am a big foodie, usually can find something good about a place but other than the view from start to finish it was an unpleasant experience and I’ve never had that in my life to not enjoy anything. My mum and I rocked up and were not met with kindness or even a hello, the staff did not look like they wanted to be there, the food was well below par as the chewiest and inedible steak was so over cooked it looked like it was mid way through its cremation when the crematorium turn off and the bacon was the least cooked I’ve ever seen bacon, the slices of cheese were the plastic things kids like and not cafe worthy, and it was a total of $64 something including the only thing my mum liked which was the iced chocolate. We were rushed when the waiter literally waited behind us acting as if he wasn’t as though we didn’t realise until we finished putting the scraps for the dogs in the container and straight away got in there to take the plate. I get it, it’s warm and sunny and you want to close as soon as you can but that’s not how you should run a cafe it’s not nice service or a pleasant experience and it wasn’t even 14:00. Maybe it was just a bad day and maybe it was just us as we might’ve been the last people to come in and I’m never negative but even the actual after taste was gross. I hope there can be some major changes and improvements by summer, I want to see this place thrive again. So glad to see most others had a nice time and good food despite my one...

Tucked away near the waterfront of the scenic Whitianga township. As you walk in, you're immediately met with a vibrant, comfortable atmosphere, enhanced by the soft murmur of satisfied patrons and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

During the lunchtime rush, something rather extraordinary happens at The Espy. Despite the café being at its peak period, the service is not only efficient but notably speedy. This is a testament to the well-trained staff, who navigate the bustling scene with grace and precision.

The food quality here is nothing short of excellent. Every dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The Espy Breakfast (the 'Big Breakfast' equivalent) is glorious, especially the creamed mushrooms, a standout item on the menu, simply a must-try. Cooked to perfection, their earthy flavor is complemented by a luscious, velvety sauce that will leave you craving more.

As you enjoy your meal, the overall ambiance of The Espy lends itself to a truly comfortable experience. Whether it's the warmth of the natural light filtering through the windows or the tasteful maritime decor reflecting the waterfront, everything comes together in a harmonious blend that feels just right.

In conclusion, The Espy Cafe is more than worthy of its burgeoning reputation. With its speedy service, exquisite food quality and presentation, and a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, it represents a high watermark in Whitianga's waterfront. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to carve out some time for a meal here - it promises to be...

MY REVIEW 0/5 STARS FROM ME!!!!

Be aware of their incompetence!!!!!! My mother is allergic to tomatoes. My mother made this clear to staff as soon as we arrived! My mother made her order, repeated again, no tomatoes I am allergic to tomatoes. The FOH/waitress asked a person in the kitchen (assuming it was a chef/manager/owner) wether or not the panini's in the cabinet had tomatoes. Confidently replied that there were no tomatoes, only red capsicum. THAT WAS WRONG!!!! As she was eating her panini she discovered it definitely had tomato! Now I am taking the rest of the afternoon off work to keep an eye on my mum incase we need to take her to the hospital. The nearest hospital is at least 1.5hrs away.

Disgusted with the following: No apology No refund until I approached the counter to ask as we were leaving! No compensation (offer of something for their mistake) No empathy!!

THE WORST PART The lady who was either an owner or a manager (blonde-greyish shoulder length hair, looked like she was around 60+ yrs old) was acting like a B**CH towards me when I asked for my refund and asked her for fries (deep fried potato chips) her reply was NO the kitchen is closed. The kitchen is no longer open!

NEVER EVER RETURNING TO THIS PLACE UNLESS NEW OWNERS...