Sozo Coffee House — Restaurant in Waitākere Ranges

We were going to stop at one of the Bps on the way out of town to get petrol & coffee, but I felt drawn to this little cafe Sozo (plus try support local )

So our last stop to get coffee before heading back to Tauranga - this adorable quirky cafe felt very much like in the good ole fashioned 'neighbourhood'. The elderly gent outside had an energy like thats his favourite regular spot, chatting away to passerbys & made a joyful comment about how funny it is, that people come, people go.

The staff were beautiful friendly souls that felt like they were happy to be there (that makes the hugest difference ah), and I had a moment outside with one of the lovely ladies just both appreciating the fresh air & surrounding bush & birds on a beautiful morning - a shared energy that had a real man it feels good to be alive feel to it. The barista even came over & handed us our takeaway coffees.

I believe he is also the son of the owners who spent some years in India and built a children's home over there, and continue to give back to them by giving proceeds from the cafe.

This - was the final melting of my heart, given my great grandma came from a children's home in India & I regularly write to one of the sponsored children there.

So a big shout out to Sozo in Glen Eden (a stones throw from Titirangi) - to beautiful souls delivering yummy coffee & keeping the feel of humanity alive in their little part of their community. If you're ever up that way or live in Auckland, be sure to include them on...

I have been watching this place evolve. I love the rustic look and location. The coffee is top notch (although we had a friendly disagreement as to the defintion of my preferred drink). The gluten free friand was the best Ive ever eaten, not overly sweet ( important), lots of fruit and a delicate texture. The focused cook was whipping up what looked like little individual rustic pizzas. The menu looked fresh and inspired, there was a pulled pork waffle with lots of special touches to accompany it, which had me planning my next three visits just to satisfy my curiosity. The reading material was also way above average as well. An excellent choice for those who like artisan foods and supporting local businesses... and even a charity or two, since the owners have shared profits with a school in a "developing country". Civilized?...

Haven't come in for a while despite being just a 3min walk away. Food we had with our coffee was excellent and the coffee was great as usual!!! The person who served us our food was briliant and the young people who took our orders were fantasic (just served us flat whites instead of cappuccinos... but my friend didnt mind so all good). Why not 5 stars then? Just didn't appreciate the look we got from the Owner when we came in -- the "we don't serve your kind here" look when he looked up and saw us entering while actively talking with another Customer. Sad to receive that look and not to even receive acknowledgement when I said "good morning!" as we entered... must try to remember to say "we come in peace!" next time we come back... IF we...