On our way from Karuma to Waitomo, we stopped for breakfast in Pirongia on Franklin road.
We tried the first roadside cafe, we came upon (don't remember the name), but we weren't impressed with the menu or the seating.
It was only then that we noticed "the Nest" next door. Not a very attractive building, we would have easily overlooked it and we were hesitating to enter.
But once inside, we were pleasantly surprised by the cheerful, slightly hipster vibe.
The seating areas with ample room for small and bigger groups, comfy chairs and couches for having espressos and a pleasant sunroom.
There even appeared to be some kind of picnic area complete with blankets and so on.
We ordered our food at the counter and then seated ourselves in the sunroom.
With the decor between antique, vintage and eclectic, the statement piece was definitely the giant antique copper / brass espresso machine by Elektra. A real beauty that I wouldn't mind owning myself.
The business owner himself served at the counter and was good for conversation and interested in his customers.
My husband ordered the scrambled eggs and I had the poached egg with avocado and the most delicious hashbrowns I have ever had.
We both had capucinos too.
The only thing I would have liked to see is a little more generous servings of bread. Maybe 2 slices per person instead of one.
But, I have to say that when my husband asked for extra bread, the owner didn't charge him for it.
The breakfast was served on warm plates (YES!!!!), tastefully plated, capucinos presented with coffee art. Both eggs and bread fresh and flavorful.
We wanted to come back here the next morning, before driving back to Auckland to catch our flight, but why oh why weren't you open yet at 8 AM??? I had so much looked forward to a repeat of the day before, but alas, it was not in the cards.....
Perfect breakfast place! read more