Verde Geraldine — Restaurant in South Island

So outstanding, I almost don't want anyone else to know about it. But in fairness, they were flat out busy and our food and coffees were fast and fantastic.

FOOD... Best BLT (they called it something else) and best all day breakfast ever (he said, "even the sausage was good and you can't always say that").

COFFEES... And I thought soy milk was a downgrade in life but not here. Maybe a little too much foam on the flat white but if that's the worst you can say about a cafe - they deserve six stars! It was awesome and his regular milk coffee was too.

SERVICE... Exceptional. Cleared a table for us, wiped it down, popped the paper serviette to the side, "so, it didn't get damp" and asked us how our weekend was with genuine interest. They were flat out and yet... delightful.

You'd think for this it must be super expensive, right? Wrong. Really reasonably priced... on Labour Weekend Monday to...

I have just had the single most amazing experience so far. I have a Disability Assistance Dog. We came in for coffee and a table began loudly discussing dogs and how you can’t bring your dog in, and how they can clearly bring their own dog in. One of the ladies running the show popped over to them and explained that she is a medical dog. She spent the time to explain to them that she has a special suit on that means she is for medical purposes and not a normal dog. I am in tears of happy. I have never felt so validated and supported by staff at any place. Thank you so much. (She does have her supersuit on, she is just very fluffy from the front. We are certified through K9 Search...

This is the place you want to stop and eat. Ample dedicated off-street parking beside and around the building. Pet friendly with water bowls outside by the tables. Kid friendly with a swing set, slide, play house and toys. Cute garden immersion atmosphere.

But most importantly the food is on point. The roast chicken has the best sauce I have had in a long while, the chicken leek pot pie was warm and cream and the lamb fillet salad was incredible. Coffee and smoothie were equally refreshing.

Again, on your roadtrip, if you’re looking for lunch, a coffee and bathroom break, or a chance to let the dogs out for a bit…this is it.

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