Hare and the Turtle. — Restaurant in Whau

The aroma of freshly ground beans, a siren's call, Beckons the weary, the lost, and the small. A haven of warmth in the city's cold grace, Where time slows its pace and smiles grace each face. The barista, a maestro, with practiced deft hand, Creates magic in mugs, across the white land. Latte art, a masterpiece, a fleeting delight, A fleeting embrace of the morning's soft light. The chatter of voices, a gentle refrain, Weaving a tapestry of stories, again and again. The student, engrossed in a book's whispered lore, The businessman, pacing, forevermore. The old woman, knitting, a lifeline of thread, Sharing a smile with the boy overhead. The lovers, entwined, in a silent embrace, Lost in their world, in this warm, cozy space. The rain lashes outside, a rhythmic, fierce beat, But here, in this haven, the world feels complete. A refuge from chaos, a solace serene, Where worries dissolve in the coffee's warm sheen. The pastries, a symphony, calling to try, Croissants, flaky and golden, reaching for the sky. Muffins, bursting with berries, a sweet, sugary dream, Washing away sorrow, it would seem. The music, a low hum, a comforting sound, Jazz, blues, or classical, gently profound. Creating an ambiance, where thoughts softly drift, And worries subside, with every gentle lift. The cafe, a microcosm, of life's fleeting grace, A stage for encounters, in this bustling space. Where strangers connect, and friendships take root, And the warmth of the coffee, can't be disputed. So raise your cup high, to this haven so dear, Where worries fade fast, and good cheer is always near. The cafe, a sanctuary, a balm for the soul, A place to recharge, and make...

Our month-long North Island campervan trip is coming to an end. We arrived in Auckland earlier than planned during our trip, and we hurriedly found a campsite. It looked like a vagrant's hostel, so we canceled our reservation. We were so shocked as to get out without thinking further. To think properly, we decided to grab a bite to eat at the first cafe we ​​found, but it was closing time. We were eating our takeaway sandwiches on a bench outside, and the staff came out and handed a full bag of leftover doughnuts and bread from the day. They could have given them to another customers, but I think they gave them to us because we were on our way. The reason I mention this in my review is that I was impressed by their strict adherence to the same-day sales policy. The bread from our sandwiches at closing time was crispy and delicious, as if freshly baked. They could have sold the bread of still good quality the next day, but they'll bake tomorrow's bread the next day. Isn't that wonderful? As we were leaving, the staff, busy with cleanup, all waved cheerfully and said goodbye. My initial panic instantly calmed, and I felt at ease again. My husband said the cream donut was his thing, and even though he was already full from the sandwich, he ate it all up in no time. It's a shame I didn't get to try the coffee. I'll come back before I return to Korea to try the coffee and review it. (No photos taken in...

I've taken a very long time to make it to this cafe, and I admit it with a bit of shame. I only live a few blocks away and drive past it almost every day.

So when my kids went back to school, I took the chance and rushed in for a breakfast. I was greeted so well, there was no way to walk away from it. I looked at the menu, which can be small for some, but I find it perfect as I don't have to think too much. Ordered the pancakes, which was heaven on earth. Paired with a chai, it was just what I needed.

But wait, there is more! I had my baby with me. As soon as I got there, I was shown a table, and before I could blink, a high chair was set up for her. Baby was in a good mood, and smiled enough for me to take my time. A few minutes later, a plate with a sliced banana in the shape of a smiley face was handed to us.

I don't care about any other review you might read from now on. But you need to know that this is a place where these small things mean so much - it makes the food taste even better. Kindness was the dish of the day for me and I absolutely loved it.

I now have the duty to go there more often, thanks to the small details in good service. You will not regret going there.

As for me, I will go back to taste the mortadella sandwich....