Amelia WilliamsThere is something magical about crossing the bridge. As the pace slows down, the beaches feel closer, and the coffee scene is arguably better than the city side.
Swimmers head to Takapuna for a post-dip brunch, while remote workers find quiet corners in Devonport.
I have spent countless weekends hunting for that perfect flat white and eggs benny combo. Here are the best cafes in the North Shore to make your new regular.
Let’s dig into the local gems that make this area a foodie paradise.
How much does brunch cost in the North Shore?
You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a morning out here, but it helps to know what to expect. A quick coffee run for two usually sits around the $10 mark if you are just grabbing flat whites. If you add a couple of cabinet pastries or muffins to that order, you will likely spend close to $20.
However, a proper sit-down brunch date with two substantial main dishes and specialty drinks costs between $50 and 60. It is pretty standard pricing for Auckland, but the portion sizes across the bridge often give you a bit more bang for your buck.
1. Honey Cafe (Takapuna)
Website: https://honeycafe.co.nz/
Address: 12 Huron Street, Takapuna, Auckland
Contact: 09 489 4000 and [email protected]
Schedule: Mon-Fri 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sat-Sun 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Must-Try: Fried Buttermilk Chicken Waffles
Memorable dishes that step away from standard cafe fare make this Takapuna spot a standout.
They have partnered with “Best Ugly Bagels” to bring that chewy goodness to the Shore, but their own signature dishes steal the show.
I ordered the Fried Buttermilk Chicken Waffles during my last visit, and the sriracha maple syrup was the perfect sweet and spicy kick. It stands out as a top brunch contender in the area.
One thing I love is that their digital booking system makes securing a table a breeze, which I really appreciate.
However, keep an eye on the clock. The kitchen closes at 2:00 PM on weekdays, so don’t leave your lunch run too late or you might miss out on the hot food.
Customer Reviews
Very delicious café. I’ve been here more than once. I love their eggs Benedict and chicken waffles. Looking forward to my next brunch as I’ll try some new dishes.
- Yvonne Zhang | Google Review
Really yummy food and very accommodating staff. Provided colouring pages and crayons. We had fried chicken and waffles and the banofee french toast which were really delicious.
- shawna koh | Google Review
2. Corelli’s Cafe
Website: https://www.corelliscafe.co.nz/
Address: 46 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland
Contact: 09 445 4151 and [email protected]
Schedule: Mon-Thurs 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Fri-Sat 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Sun 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Must-Try: Carrot Cake
Corelli’s offers a genuinely homely atmosphere that feels miles away from the pretension of some modern espresso bars. They notably hold a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for this.
Hanging out here really feels like relaxing in a friend’s living room, especially with those comfy couches by the French windows.
I stopped by one time for a slice of their famous carrot cake, and it honestly lived up to the hype with its perfect moisture and frosting. The all-day menu is a lifesaver if you crave breakfast for lunch.
Just keep in mind that, unlike on weekends, they close the doors by 3:00 PM on weekdays, so it isn’t the spot for a late-afternoon catch-up.
Customer Reviews
We visited Corelli’s cafe for lunch and we will be back again! The service, food and location is amazing. Our table got the Halloumi salad, burger and the spaghetti and it was all perfect. The carrot cake is 😍 wish we got a picture but we all ate it within 2 minutes – it’s THAT good!
- Brianna Coury | Google Review
It was a great experience. Food was good with reasonable price. They were quick as well. The services were not bad all all. The menu has variety of food including a all day breakfast. The drink list was to my surprise as well. I had a great time.
- A K | Google Review
3. Fika With Me
Website: https://fikawithmebirkenhead.com/
Address: 5 Birkenhead Avenue, Birkenhead, Auckland
Contact: 09 418 5508 and [email protected]
Schedule: Wed-Fri 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM, Sat-Sun 8:30 AM – 3.00 PM
Must-Try: Masala Hash
This Birkenhead gem serves distinct Fiji-Indian heritage dishes you won’t find elsewhere. Chef Deepak has crafted a menu that goes beyond the basics, blending spices and techniques that honour his background.
Their award-winning Masala Hash stands out immediately. I tried this dish myself, and the complex layers of spice provided incredible flavour without overpowering the palate.
Locals come here to just “slow down,” capturing the true Swedish meaning of Fika. The space encourages lingering over a second cup of coffee rather than rushing off.
They are also fully licensed if you fancy an Espresso Martini with brunch.
Just remember to check your calendar before heading over. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so it is strictly a mid-week to weekend treat for those in the know.
Customer Reviews
Such a cute little cafe with a wide variety of things on the menu to choose from. My local favorite. Kind waitresses, and food always so delicious (must try the Masala Hash with fried chicken). Their alcohol menu is very reasonably priced, which is rare in Auckland these days. They have high chairs and kids activities for the little ones. Will definitely be back!
- Rajeev Lal | Google Review
We came to Fika for a spur of the moment brunch and I am so glad we did. The food, staff, and atmosphere were brilliant even on a rainy day. Lots of gluten free and dietary options. The French bread was delicious and the coffee was one of the best I have had from a cafe in a while. Best to make a reservation – we got lucky and got a free table but it was packed the entire time
- Stacey Rose | Google Review
4. Bungalo Cafe
Website: https://www.bungalo.co.nz/
Address: 96 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, Auckland
Contact: 09 480 2819 and [email protected]
Schedule: Daily 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Must-Try: The Bungalo
Parents dragging the kids along find relief here without sacrificing gourmet food. Usually, family-friendly spots compromise on culinary quality, but Bungalo breaks that rule.
Their “Anti-Choice” kids’ menu with items like “I Don’t Care” is a hilarious touch that actually makes ordering easier, removing the usual stress of dining with little ones.
For the adults, the food here is serious business.
I dove into their signature Spiced Hash Brown, which offered a perfect crunch, but their flagship dish, “The Bungalo,” is the real must-try if you want the full experience.
Sunny mornings fill the venue with breakfast crowds soaking up the light.
The main drawback is the schedule. They close up shop at 3:00 PM daily, so it isn’t an option for late afternoon meetings or early dinners.
Customer Reviews
Had a really nice time at Bungalo Cafe. The staff were very friendly and went the extra mile wherever they could. The flat white and iced coffees were really tasty. The flat white wasn’t bitter and the iced coffee wasn’t overly sweet like other places. The Bongalo (Big Breakfast) was delicious. Everything was good quality, flavourful and complimented each other really well. I would recommend going here for a sit-down meal with friends or just popping in to grab a takeaway coffee. Thanks for the enjoyable time team.
- Adam Harris | Google Review
I had the whitebait omelette with salad and the biggest banana smoothie I have ever seen. Best omelette ever. I can’t wait to try the other 2 omelettes on the menu. The views from the corner table inside are just breathtaking 😍 Message for the chef: Would you marry me? 😄
- Natalia Torreira | Google Review
5. Lily Eatery (Devonport)
Website: https://www.lilyeatery.co.nz/
Address: 12 Wynyard St, Devonport, Auckland
Contact: 09 445 0243 and [email protected]
Schedule: Daily 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Must-Try: Turkish Eggs
Tucked away in an old brick merchant’s warehouse, Lily Eatery feels like a discovered secret rather than a high-street staple.
They make simple things well, and the difference shows in the food made from scratch on-site. You can often smell fresh baking the moment you walk through the door.
I had the Turkish Eggs on my visit, and the freshness of the ingredients really shone through, balancing rich textures with bright flavours.
It seems the rustic industrial setting here draws locals looking for a relaxed place to hang out in Devonport, offering a distinct vibe from the typical seaside cafe.
Do note that it is counter service only. You have to pop up to order rather than getting table service, which might annoy some people looking for a more relaxed dining experience.
Customer Reviews
My friends have recommended this cafe many times and I finally got a chance to try it! The signature dish, Turkish eggs, was quite a large portion — I almost couldn’t finish them🤣. The smoked fish was yummy and had well-balanced nourishment. And the recommended kombucha was also refreshingly sweet!
- Kena Kong | Google Review
I love this cafe! What I am most impressed by is their range of gluten free food available in the cabinet. Instead of the usual standard options – either a brownie or an orange cake, they have different slices and even a cheesecake on offer. Their coffee is also really good. The service was lovely and the interior and exterior is a nice all-round vibe. Love this little gem and always make a visit when I’m in Devonport.
- MJH | Google Review
