Melba: Great Coffee, Fresh Meals, Warm Welcome
With locations in Hillsborough, Karaka, LynnMall, Manukau, and beyond, Melba Cafés are your go-to destinations for wholesome breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and expertly crafted coffee. Whether you’re meeting friends, holding a lunch meeting, or enjoying a quiet break, each Melba offers a relaxed, welcoming space to suit every moment. Our menus are built on high-quality ingredients, and our baristas are passionate about delivering the perfect cup every time. Wherever you visit us, expect the same warm hospitality and consistently delicious food and drink. Come for the coffee, stay for the vibe.
Best for: Reliable brunches across the south and west.
Urban Soul: More Than Just a Café
With thriving locations in Manukau and Karaka, Urban Soul has built a loyal following based on quality food, excellent coffee, and genuine hospitality. At Urban Soul Manukau, owners David & Tracey Bartlett have proudly created a welcoming hub in the heart of South Auckland for over 12 years. Loved by business professionals, students, and locals, this modern, light-filled space is more than just a café – it’s a community cornerstone that actively supports local charities and organisations. Meanwhile, Urban Soul Karaka is a local favourite that’s earned its spot among Auckland’s best cafés. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, homemade baking, and Fair Trade coffee by Ozone, it’s the perfect spot for everything from weekday brunches to evening dinners. Wherever you visit us, we look forward to welcoming you with warm smiles, delicious meals, and coffee worth coming back for.
Insider tip: Weekday mid-morning is the calmest time to linger.
No. 117 Café: Where Flavour Takes Flight
Discover a creative and diverse menu at No. 117 Café, where we serve everything from classic Western favourites to vibrant Asian-inspired dishes – all made from the freshest ingredients. We proudly brew Business Class organic coffee beans – without the premium price tag. Whether you're after a hearty meal or a quick bite, our homemade dishes are crafted with care to satisfy every palate. Great food, great coffee, and great value – it's all waiting for you at No. 117.
Best for: Pre- or post-airport meals; generous portions.
Cornwall Park Café: A Local Gem in the Heart of Nature
Tucked away in the lush surrounds of Cornwall Park, this café is the perfect spot to relax and refuel, whether you're out for a stroll, meeting friends, or treating the family. The menu celebrates seasonal, local produce with a rustic and homely touch—everything made with care and from scratch. Expect freshly brewed coffee, hearty breakfasts, seasonal lunch options, and a cabinet bursting with sweet treats, pastries, and savouries. In a hurry? Grab something to-go from the takeaway menu, featuring warming winter bites, fresh smoothies, and rich hot chocolates to cosy up with. There’s even a special menu for the little ones. Warm, welcoming and always delicious—Cornwall Park Café is your go-to for great food in a beautiful setting.
Insider tip: Pair with a stroll to Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill summit.
Red Shed Palazzo: A Garden Oasis
Just minutes off the Drury off-ramp, Red Shed Palazzo is a relaxed rural café nestled in beautiful garden surroundings. Open 7 days a week (7:30am–4pm), it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful breakfast, lunch, or coffee. Enjoy innovative cuisine, Roma coffee, and Mount Riley wines in a family- and dog-friendly setting. With a playground, Sunday Market, and picturesque function space, it’s ideal for birthdays or a tranquil day out.
Best for: Family brunches and lazy garden afternoons.
Calendula Cottage: Countryside Café & Garden
Escape Nestled just outside Pukekohe, Calendula Cottage is a charming country café set in lush, garden grounds with indoor and outdoor seating housed in quaint gazebos. Beloved for its hearty breakfasts and brunches - think “The Stack,” eggs Benedict, creamy mushrooms—and indulgent cabinet treats like banoffee pie and scones, this cosy spot delivers classic Kiwi café favourites made with care. Family- and pet-friendly, it's ideal for a relaxed weekend outing. Open Wed–Sun, 10 am–4 pm.
Insider tip: Book the gazebo tables on sunny days.
