Eden Noodles Café – Bold Flavours on a Budget
A go-to for authentic Sichuan cuisine, Eden Noodles Café is perfect for a quick, tasty, and affordable meal. Don’t miss the pork and chive dumplings in spicy sauce, wide noodles with dan dan, and the refreshing cucumber salad on the side. Simple, spicy, and seriously satisfying.
Best for: Quick, affordable lunches with bold flavour
Insider tip: Order a side of cucumber salad to cool the heat
Fitzroy Deli – Fresh Sandwiches & Coffee
This cosy Shortland Street café serves up freshly baked breads and made-to-order sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. Don’t miss the mortadella with basil pesto and pistachios or the warm beef brisket with vintage cheddar and pickled zucchini. Perfect for dine-in or takeaway, plus great coffee to start your day!
What to try: Mortadella, pesto & pistachio sandwich
Insider tip: Go early for the best cabinet selection.
Patch Café – Classics & Treats Anytime
Serving all-day favourites from a hearty ‘Full Patch’ breakfast to seafood rice bowls and deep-fried ice cream, Patch Café is perfect for any appetite. Don’t miss their light cakes and delicate macarons, paired with expertly brewed coffee. Relax inside the cosy café or soak up the sun in Khartoum Place’s leafy square.
Best for: Relaxed meals near the art gallery.
Insider tip: Request a seat outside on a sunny day
Honey Cafe – A Cosy Library Retreat
Located inside the Central City Library, Honey Cafe is a charming spot to relax with great coffee, tasty food, and friendly vibes. The walls feature stunning artwork by Erin Forsyth, celebrating native bees and pollinators inspired by the rooftop garden. Perfect for a study break, lunch, or catch-up away from the city buzz.
Good to know: A calm escape in the middle of the CBD
Pair it with: A browse through the library’s top floors
Scarecrow – Urban Oasis on Victoria Street
Scarecrow is a bright, spacious spot blending European bistro vibes with local farmers market charm. Enjoy fresh food, organic Kokako coffee, artisan groceries, and unique gifts in a warm, cosy space designed by award-winning architect Peter Were. A perfect place to relax and discover something special.
Best for: Brunch, gifting and casual meetings
Insider tip: Take home something from the gourmet store
Remedy Coffee – Chill Vibes on Wellesley St
A laid-back coffee spot with vintage couches, bookshelves and window stools for people-watching. Ideal for morning coffees, quiet work sessions or simple grab-and-go orders.
Good to know: Vintage couches + relaxed setting
Insider tip: A great place to reset before exploring the city
Rude Boy Deli & Eatery – Bright Brunch Spot on Sale Street
Auckland brunch regular? Don’t miss Rude Boy’s light-filled space, perfect for relaxed breakfasts, long lunches, or weekend catch-ups. Enjoy classic dishes with a modern twist, tempting treats from the cabinet, and great coffee in this inner-city favourite.
Best for: Brunch before shopping or events
Pair it with: Explore Ponsonby Road
Cargo Coffee – Kiwi Ingenuity in a Shipping Container
This sunny spot serves Coffee Supreme brews and tasty Guerilla Grill toasties from a bright, 10ft shipping container in an old loading dock. Known for quality coffee and sustainable choices, Cargo Coffee is a must-visit for a quick, flavour-packed caffeine fix in a quirky, colourful setting.
Good to know: Perfect when you want a fast, tasty coffee without crowds
Insider tip: Enjoy your coffee in the sunny courtyard
