Cancel

Open app

Search

Ponsonby Road Cafe

4.6 (250 reviews)
Open • 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Order Ponsonby Road Cafe Takeout or Delivery

Ponsonby Road Cafe Photos

Business Info

PONSONBY ROAD CAFE ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Outdoor seating
Dogs allowed

You might also consider

More like Ponsonby Road Cafe

Recommended Reviews - Ponsonby Road Cafe

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Sophia S.

Loved the service and enjoyed the sausage roll and coffee! It's a pretty small place, but it wasn't super busy when we came by at around 11:30am on a Saturday. We nabbed some street parking, but learned that they actually provide an hour of parking behind the building (with purchase). Will definitely file that away for a future visit! Now, for what we ordered: -mocha with whole milk and hazelnut syrup: my partner really enjoyed this! He said it was good, and repeated himself a few times as he kept drinking. He said he really liked the flavor combination and appreciated that it wasn't super sweet. -latte, iced with whole milk and strawberry: the flavor of the espresso really came through, and it was a solid latte. I requested the strawberry from their matcha to be added to the latte (which they were nice enough to do!), but honestly I think the latte would have been better without it. I'd stick to their usual menu offerings next time! -sausage roll: came out hot, flaky, and with 2 sauces (ketchup and a habanero sauce, which is apparently made in-house, as is their salad dressing!). Solid, nice snack. We wanted something savory and tasty, but not too filling before a late lunch, so this really hit the spot. The sausage part is like a seasoned meat/sausage patty, and it was juicy, tender, and really nice with the sauses. There were a few tables with seating inside, a few bar-style stools for seating by the window, and a few small round tables with seating outside. Overall, really enjoyed our time here, and I would definitely like to return for another coffee and savory pastry!

Menu as of April 2026
Bella S.

I've been wanting to try this place for some time now as there are not a lot of places in the area for New Zealand style meat pies. Upon entering the cafe, my 1st impression is that the vibe is chill. The eating space is actually quite small, but they do have a few tables for those who choose to dine-in. Staff were friendly and willing to answer questions. Kudos to the staff for being on top of their service - they provided utensils without me even having to ask for it in advance. My goal for my 1st visit was to get 2 meat pies and 1 drink. I ended up getting just 2 pies since most of their drinks are made with syrup, which I am not a fan of as it's just sugary flavoring; I prefer flavors made from real brewing (ie. earl grey should be from earl grey tea, not syrup ... but that's just my opinion of course). 1. Steak, Cheese, and Jalapeno Meat Pie (3.5/5) Overall, not a bad meat pie. I really liked the outside of the pie, which was flaky and pleasantly doughy ... just how I like it. Minus a star and a half because the steak was not tender, there was no jalapeno/jalapeno flavor, and the savory filling was a bit too salty & this is coming from someone who craves salty things all the time. The sauce filling also didn't stand out as being anything special. I think some herbs or some actual jalapeno spice would elevate it more. 2. Sausage Roll (2.5-3/5) The same pastry dough on the outside of the roll wraps around a log of moist sausage meat. The pastry part for this roll was not as flaky as the pies. The sausage filling part had a very mushy texture, which was off-putting to me and the flavor of the sausage was bland; lacked any spice at all. They do provide a side of ketchup and some spicy sauce. The spicy sauce did elevate the dish, which allowed me to finish it. If it weren't for that spicy sauce, I probably wouldn't be able to stomach the sausage roll. I'd skip the sausage roll next time and stick with the various meat pies.

New Zealand Meatpie
Allen V.

Came here as we wanted something small to snack on and for my cousins to compare the Australian pies to New Zealand pies, which they also enjoyed. The young women were kind and helpful, food arrived quickly. We sat outside the small area, it's clean.

Half steak and cheese + half bacon and egg, pies served with salad and sauces.
Jaq V.

A go-to for breakfast pie. Yes, pie for breakfast with the most delicious savory fillings. My favorites are steak + cheese and butter chicken. Service is always great here and food quality is consistent. I like the cozy ambiance inside too, just a few tables and they also have seating outside. Besides the pie they have good coffee and tea options. I highly recommend you try this place if ever in the area.

Simple, but with awesome food!  Pies!  New Zealand style!
Arnel S.

I miss New Zealand. And visiting this place has made my homesickness worse. All because of their meat pies! They make it just like they do at home...flaky, crusty top...filling that is meaty...with a thick gravy...served warm on a plate, with a side of salad and dressing to boot! Good, old New Zealand satisfaction to me and my family's palate! The place is very cozy. Nice decor all around, with parts decorated with vines and pictures on the wall. Well-lit, a few tables for the diners, with comfortable seating. The service was above par. Friendly staff, most accomodating and helpful to your every request. They offered free tasting of lamingtons, which was just like I remember from shops in Auckland. The food was really good that my daughter ordered quite a few meat pies for s to take home! If you crave meat pies, the Ponsonby Road Cafe is the best place to fill your gastronomic wish!

Steak and Cheese Meat Pie and Fruity Pebbles Matcha Latte
Carlo G.

I really wanted to rank this place high, but one item on the menu prohibited me from doing that. I visited this New Zealand cafe on a Friday for an early lunch. The cafe is small, but cozy with lots of plant decor. The staff were also nice. I ordered the steak and cheese meat pie which was a recommendation from one of the staff members with a fruity pebbles matcha latte. The pie came with a side salad which was great for balance as well as a couple of different sauces. The pie was pretty good. It warm, crispy, flaky, savory and meaty. I only wish the meat was more tender, but good nonetheless. It also paired well with the spicy sauce which cut the richness. The salad was standard with this dressing that was not too strong. The matcha was pretty terrible though. Both the cream and the matcha weren't flavorful at all, it was like drinking milk with a dash of matcha. They only sprinkled the cream with fruity pebbles and I couldn't taste the fruity pebble flavor anywhere else in the drink. Honestly disappointing for an $8 matcha. Would not recommend. What was nice was the staff gave us complimentary chocolate cake on the house. The cake peices were moist and chocolately. Overall, a mixed experience here. While the matcha was terrible, everything else was good. I would come back again, but not get a matcha.

Chicken Pesto Panini
Candace R.

Visiting town and walked here for coffee and lunch this afternoon. It's a cute, small little cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating. I was greeted and after a moment, ordered a dirty iced chai and the chicken pesto panini. She said it'd take 5-10 minutes so I grabbed a seat inside and got comfortable. It's cutely appointed, although I noted the cooler was sparsely stocked and there was trash left over from a previous guest on a table. (It's not really clear where to put plates when you're done dining in) My drink was okay. Part of it is I think oat milk can overpower lighter drinks but also, I could taste some of the chai powder so I don't think it was mixed the greatest. It was drinkable so I finished it. The panini was okay. There wasn't a strong pesto flavor and I found myself using all of the provided hot sauce for added flavor. The side salad was fresh, but would have appreciated more than a thimbles worth of dressing. I wouldn't run back to try it again, but I think it's fine in a pinch.

Iced Cortado hits right.
Rickey K.

Stopped by here a few times and the coffee hits right every time. Fast speedy service. Haven't tried the food yet but they serve a clean iced cortado just right!

Bathroom was nasty
Jackie P.

Coffee sucked. She forgot the vanilla syrup in both dunks. Bathroom was nasty. Faucet was running and serious grime like hadn't been cleaned minimum in days. Some other customer wanted bacon on a sandwich and they didn't have any and the women who work there told the guy- well we just got here so idk. Very poorly run establishment. Reviews can't be real

Chicken Pesto Panini
Tyler S.

Ponsonby Road Cafe is the perfect spot for a light, fresh bite. The Chicken Pesto Panini was flavorful and satisfying without being too heavy--ideal after a workout. The space is clean with an earthy, relaxed feel, and the menu offers plenty of healthy, well-prepped options. Service is quick.

Arleen S.

This is my 2nd time here and they still haven't let me down with the food. I bought a dozen pies because my inner Kiwi needs it lol. We also ordered pies to eat in-store and they came out hot and tasty, super flaky and packed with meat. We also ordered a few drinks and the server (who I think was the owner) was kind enough to let us try some of the lamingtons as well. The pies and lamingtons tasted just like home and my Kiwi heart is full. Inside, there's a few tables to sit at, with cute decor of a ton of plants that make it feel almost jungle-like (in a good way). This is by far my favorite place to come to when I'm down in LA and will continue to support my fellow Kiwi and the delicious foods they serve.

Steph H.

Not understanding these mostly 5 star reviews at all, it's not even remotely close. We go to the sushi spot next door frequently and never happened to see this cafe next door. Was excited to check it out. First of all, both female baristas had an attitude and were not friendly. This being our first time in, it was definitely off putting. We did not get food, but I wouldn't as the cleanliness of the cafe was not great. We got a dirty chai iced and their iced green tea. The dirty chai was terrible, bitter espresso and bizarrely watered down even with oat milk, flavors regardless weren't good. The iced green tea was a joke, it tasted like dirty water. We never ever throw away full drinks but we made an exception here. Do not recommend at all.

Butter chicken meatpie

See all

Reviews are largely positive. People highlight the authentic New Zealand pies, enjoy the friendly and attentive staff, and appreciate the cozy, relaxed atmosphere.

Read the full review summary in the app

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jose B.
3
144
6

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jaq V.
0
115
37

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Tony V.
438
265
135

10 months ago

Best meat pies ever. A hidden gem for sure. A must have. A MUST. Do yourself a favor and go.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Mark P.
0
63
16

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Dita Y.
4
154
93

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1
Photo of Julia C.
870
21
3

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 2
Love this 7
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

11 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0
Photo of Alex J.
758
2346
4064

3 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 7

Ask the Community - Ponsonby Road Cafe

You might also consider

Dialog Cafe - The Sun Rose - TCHO Mocha Latte

Dialog Cafe - The Sun Rose

4.6(3.2k reviews)
1.2 mi
•$$

Wow! I had heard how great this place was in the Equinox in West LA, then when we were staying…read moreover in West Hollywood, every time I walked by this Dialog location there was a long line. On top of that, an influencer who I always listen to highly recommended to go to this Dialog. So, my husband and I joined the long line, which went by fast and efficiently. All the food coming out smelled so good! And the menu had everything I love. On top of that, their prices are good, compared to their competitors. We each got a cafe mocha, that was made with the amazing TCHO chocolate, and we were really impressed. Then we shared the most delicious Asian chicken salad! It reminded me of my other favorite Asian chicken salad from Stanley's in Sherman Oaks. Before this, I had not found one in years that had compared. The service was also excellent, especially for a fast casual place, The owner was also walking around making sure each table was good. It was obvious that he really cared about his customers. I will definitely be coming back to this West Hollywood location, on top of trying the West LA Equinox Location. Also, this SunRose location on Sunset, is relatively new, since their original West Hollywood location had a water leak caused from the street which was out of their control. They certainly were able to pivot and thrive again. Not to mention, they have been around now for 2 generations. I always ask my favorite places, that it would be so great if they can come closer to me in Westlake Village. Can't wait to try more items. Next on my list to try is one of their bagel or croissant sandwiches.

This place was bomb! 10 out of 10 would recommend going here. My boyfriend and I stayed at the…read moresunrose hotel in West Hollywood for a little staycation, and this place is at the bottom of the hotel. The vibe inside is so cool. Tons of seating, very clean. The service is awesome, it's like a well oiled machine there. They have incredible options for food, and the coffee is awesome. My boyfriend and I tried multiple drinks and food items over the three days, but my favorite was definitely the date smoothie. He had an incredible breakfast burrito that I got to try a bite of as well. I also loved the Americano with the unsweetened almond milk. Super bold espresso, but not bitter. Will definitely be coming back to Los Angeles for this place!!!

Photos
Dialog Cafe - The Sun Rose - Tcho Chocolate Chip Cookie

Tcho Chocolate Chip Cookie

Dialog Cafe - The Sun Rose
Dialog Cafe - The Sun Rose - Our little indulgence...shhh, don't tell anyone (mini, to keep the calories to a minimum)

See all

Our little indulgence...shhh, don't tell anyone (mini, to keep the calories to a minimum)

Verve Coffee Roasters - Barista pouring a cappuccino.

Verve Coffee Roasters

3.9(556 reviews)
0.6 mi
•$$

I've been to the Verve Coffee Roasters location in the Arts District before, but this was my first…read moretime visiting the Melrose shop, and I really liked the atmosphere. It has a cozy, tucked-away feel with plenty of seating both inside and outside, making it a great place to relax with a coffee. We ordered a mocha and a latte, and both were solid. They were well balanced and not overly sweet, which I always appreciate since you can actually taste the quality of the espresso. We spent some time enjoying the outdoor seating and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the visit. If you're in the Melrose area and looking for a good coffee shop to unwind, this is definitely worth stopping by.

I've been to the Verve Coffee Roasters in DTLA so was excited to try this WeHo hot spot because I…read moreenjoy their coffee. This place is so cute that I've driven by it a million times thinking it was a fancy restaurant - not a cute hidden gem coffee shop! This particular shop is incredibly popular and always full but if you're lucky you'll get a seat in their adorable little outdoor area. They have some belly up counter style seats along the sidewalk and also a side garden with a few tables & chairs, plus some cute cushions on the steps for ground seating. Once again, I'm obsessed with the aesthetics at a Verve location. They really seem to focus on rustic wood vibes inside and incorporating nature in a fun way. I always love their flash nitro cold brew here. It's so smooth and refreshing! I also tried their matcha and loved it. Plus their chocolate chip sea salt cookie was money. I'm sure I'll be back to Verve in WeHo! Really enjoyed it yesterday.

Photos
Verve Coffee Roasters - Showing the love!

Showing the love!

Verve Coffee Roasters - Breakfast burrito

Breakfast burrito

Verve Coffee Roasters - What the cafe looks like

See all

What the cafe looks like

Community Goods - Einspanner

Community Goods

4.2(1.3k reviews)
0.9 mi•Beverly Grove
•$$

It pains me to give this 5-stars but truth be told, they deserve it…read more Let me preface: I am not from LA, I don't live in LA, I am not an LA POS. But Community Goods is often touted as staple POS behavior. Naturally, I scoff at the idea of driving to a ritzy part of town to wait an hour in line for coffee and Hawaiian roll sandwiches. And yet, that's exactly what we did. Given my preconceived notions of LA culture, I envisaged biting into a gluten-free, flavor-free, low-carb, lean protein, overpriced slider. I'd walk away disappointed, a bit poorer, and still hungry. Yeah, nope. First off, they had espresso tonics. Dead ass simple item but surprisingly hard to find on café menus. I absolutely love them. Note to self: look into making them at home. On a hot day like today, their espresso tonic hit heavy, almost made me want to grab a 2nd one (if it weren't for the line). But their slider stole the show. The photos don't really do it justice, and yeah it's not the fattest thing in the world. But bacon, eggs, and cheese on a roll is so simple, so greasy, so delicious that you really can't go wrong. Ok yeah you can get that literally anywhere. But something about how haphazardly and dgaf it's assembled, plus whatever the hell sauce it comes with, makes this slider just a touch elevated. The inside had fun little trinkets to window shop. Once you're in the little shack, the line doesn't feel as daunting. There are benches, you can look at the menu, you can shop a bit. The workers all had these sick black canvas (or was it denim?) overalls. I wonder if those are for sale? Seating is sparse, they've got tables along the sides and back, or you could eat in your car. The shack is small, don't expect to linger after getting your order. I probably won't be back. but all things considered, yeah this spot is hyped up heavy, but now I understand why.

I waited to try this place for so long so that the lines would taper off... But finally tried it on…read moreMemorial Day when I had the day off .... and so did the whole LA city lol. I won't bore you with the wait (but yes, we waited 40ish minutes). We got the typical matcha latte, and also the hojicha latte. I actually liked the hojicha one more! It held onto its hojicha essence, I feel like some places dilute it so much or add so much sugar. Here, you could taste the nuttiness of the hojicha, and I think there was a touch of maple syrup added. I liked the drink so much, I ordered hojicha powder online after (not the same, obviously!) Would I come back again? Yes.... but only during truly off-peak times because I don't think I can get myself to wait in line again lol.

Photos
Community Goods - Matcha einspanner & Vanilla bean latte

Matcha einspanner & Vanilla bean latte

Community Goods - Matcha einspanner and vanilla bean latte

Matcha einspanner and vanilla bean latte

Community Goods - Sliders w/ bacon

See all

Sliders w/ bacon

Sweets Talk - Self service Kiosk

Sweets Talk

4.9(156 reviews)
1.3 mi

I've been here a couple of times and thought it was time to review this establishment. Located at…read morethe busy intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Fairfax in West Hollywood; you won't be disappointed. It's a small space with a few tables inside with multiple large sliding glass doors that open onto the intersection on one side and a courtyard on the other side. It gives the place a nice urban feel with plenty of foot traffic outside and people watching. You order from one of the two kiosks outside of the kitchen. You select from the menu, make your payment, and assigned a number to notify you when your order is ready. They send messages to you via text. I was with a friend mid-afternoon on a Saturday. There was just a couple of people inside when we arrived. The evenings are usually busier with several people inside and on the outdoor courtyard which has a few tables. We both ordered cheesecake and we loved them. Very fresh, flavorful, and creamy in texture. I had the Oreo Cheesecake and my friend had the Mocha Cheesecake. My friend also had a Fusion Mocha Shake which he said tasted great with the right amount of mocha flavoring for his taste. We spoke to the owner/baker after we ate to compliment his desserts. I asked how business was and he said unfortunately slow. He mentioned how restaurants in general were having a hard time in the current uncertain economy. It has nothing to do with his products. The desserts and treats are great. If you can, give this spot a try. And the prices are reasonable considering the quality of the desserts. There's a promotion for new customers. Whatever amount you spend on your first visit, you earn that amount in credits towards your next purchase. It's all automated through your phone number. Open everyday until midnight. There are complimentary board games to play while dining. Limited parking in the plaza or street parking. It's great to have a quality dessert café in my neighborhood.

Had a friend's meet up reunion at Sweets Talk in West Hollywood and it was so much fun…read more You cannot miss the venue because it says "Sweets Talk" outside of the place in huge letters and there's a boba drinks sandwich boards advertising on the sidewalk. It's a petit venue with comfy couch seating, chairs and cute table that you can connect. We did that since there were about 7 of us. You order from the two kiosks or off of your phone so remember that they do not take cash as payment. There's so many fun options on the menus from scrumptious desserts, hot and cold beverages like teas and coffees. I had to have an iced boba beverage. So yummy. Our server who may also be the owner was very nice. Quick service, like we received text messages that your order has been placed and it was brought to our table within minutes. Incredible and he was very cheerful. While conversations were happening I noticed a cool shelf and on the shelf were games! Fun board and card games that continued the our mini party! This place was open until 11pm so it cool to have a coffee shop that stays open late. I took public transportation but there is underground parking at the venue, there are tons of parking meters and parking in the residential area. This place is YUMMY!

Photos
Sweets Talk - Pumpkin cheesecake

Pumpkin cheesecake

Sweets Talk - Key lime tart

Key lime tart

Sweets Talk - Carrot cake

See all

Carrot cake

Ponsonby Road Cafe - cafes - Updated October 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...