Took my mum here today for Mother's Day... we planned to go to Mairangi Bay initially, but driving through there, we saw it was teeming so we continued on to Browns Bay. And I'm glad we did, because we had a great lunch and generally a great time at this upbeat little bistro. Somehow everything about the day was perfect -- we were both in good spirits, the cafe was busy but didn't seem overly crowded even though almost every table was taken, the atmosphere was really lovely and the staff super friendly. We sat outside, at my suggestion because I thought it was quite clammy today. But I could tell right away that mum was cold. I kept asking if she wanted to move, but she kept assuring me (through chattering teeth) that she was fine. We thought it was a great touch that the outside tables come with blankets draped over the chairs for mums who don't handle the breeze too well! My particular mum was soon cocooned in hers.
The location is fantastic, it reminded us a little of Mission Bay, with the reserve in the near plan and the ocean not too far past that. I loved how the setting was casual and laid-back, unpretentious and really conducive to a lazy chat over brunch, but at the same time you feel like you're right in the thick of it (especially if seated outside), what with the people milling round the reserve, dog-walkers etc, and the lunch-crowd coming and going. I really loved the atmosphere at those outside tables; not sure how it would've been inside, possibly a tad crowded.
Staff were really friendly, especially given how busy and stressful it must've been for them with today's crowds. Service was quick and efficient. The man serving our drinks (Steve, I think, going by one of the photos on here) had a great manner about him, suggesting we move to a more sheltered table closer to the building itself. The way he said it was so good-natured and funny it put us in even higher spirits.
The food was great, we only shared one dish (green eggs and ham) because we weren't particularly hungry, but we both thought it was fantastic -- simple but perfectly executed, the poached eggs just so, ditto the ham (so crispy and flavoursome we actually thought it was bacon), and subtle hints of various other flavours really setting the dish off. The bread (ciabatta, I think) was great too. I secretly hoped mum wouldn't be able to finish her half, but she polished the plate! My cappuccino was very good, and mum's tea -- kakariki green -- was very pleasant, even though I never drink tea. The price was reasonable, given the quality of the fare.
Clearly this place is a favourite with dog-walkers. As we were eating, a couple with a small dog crossed the street and sat down at the table next to us. The little guy was so excited he actually reared up on his hind legs as they were crossing the street. His owner told us it's his favourite place, because "he always gets treats." The waitress who served them was clearly on good terms with the doggie, he got a lot of love and attention and it was very sweet to see.
You can tell someone's put a lot of love into this place, and truly wants to give it a community feel. read more
