Lot 23 is a cafe, art gallery, live music venue and, according to the email newsletter which popped up in my inbox, now the host of the inaugural Minnehaha Street Mini Market Day - kick off at 9am! A big fan of Markets, think Takapuna, Mangere & Otara, I was keen to see what wares might be on offer. The email also advised that the kitchen would be open for lunch from 11am.
Being an avid bargain hunter, I arrived shortly after 9am...and immediately regretted my decision. The mini market was truely living up to it's name - there were only 3 tables set with various paraphernalia displayed for purchase and a single rack of women's clothing. And I the solitary potential buyer. Out of politeness I approached each vendor's table and feigned interest but nothing appealed. Oh well, I thought, at least I can get something to eat.
As I wandered into the empty cafe, the lady behind the counter served me my requested beverage with a smile, which rapidly diminished when I asked about food. I had forgotten that the email stated that the kitchen wouldn't be serving lunch until 11am, as she rightly reminded me. Horrified at the thought of having to wait 1 1/2 hours for food, I resigned myself to the fact that this had been a total waste of time and even considered leaving the remainder of my juice and making a hasty exit. It was then that a young man approached me and told me that he had heard the brief conversation that I'd had with his work colleague, that he was the chef and that he would be quite happy to kick things off in the kitchen a little early. And, as he correctly pointed out, the place wasn't exactly busy. He asked me what I would like to order.
And so it was that 15 minutes later, a plate of steaming mushrooms on French toast was brought to my table by the lady from behind the bar, whose smile had returned. I am pleased that I stayed to eat as the meal was delicious and I truely appreciated what the chef did for me. It was just a pity that the mini-market was not better patronised but small steps I say. I'm pleased to say that a few people arrived for the market day while I ate and it was getting busy by the time I left.
I have attended a number of events at Lot 23, not all of them have involved eating. I can say with confidence that what ever the owners tend to undertake, it is done so with flair and panache! Delicious food and convivial service is an added bonus.
Ergo I look forward to attending their next event, whether or not the kitchen may be open. read more