537 Great North Road,
Grey Lynn
Auckland,
1150
(09) 379 2862
The ViewAuckland Review
Vibe
Kokako coffee’s new showcase café fills Grey Lynn’s former post office with a funky ambience and retro touches like furniture rescued from school classrooms and a black and white tiled floor. Unfortunately the high-ceilinged space can get quite noisy, and it could be time to investigate ways to dampen the echo of overlapping conversations.
Service
Pretty good on first impressions – friendly and relaxed – but my minor deviation from the menu of the addition of a poached egg was overlooked. When it did finally arrive I’d virtually finished my meal, and it was overcooked and definitely not the runny, free-range goodie I’d requested.
Highlights
Kokako’s vegetarian menu is studded with sustainable, free-range, organic and gluten-free options, including one of Auckland’s best mueslis - toasted, organic and topped with bush honey ($15). Lots of eggy options make it a great place for brunch, and worthy soups, pastas and risotto take over at lunchtime.
Most Surprising Dish
I’m the first to admit I’m not a vegetarian, but I always enjoy vege dishes that are packed with flavour. Unfortunately Kokako’s organic potato hash with grilled goat’s cheese and avocado ($17.50) was a real disappointment and just the bland leading the bland. My idea of enlivening the dish with a runny poached egg would have really helped, but even that proved too hard for Kokako to master on the day.
Drinks List
Excellent coffee from Kokako, interesting teas and infusions – try the lemongrass and ginger – and summer-friendly natural juices and lemonades.
The Bottom Line
A slightly disappointing first visit to the new Kokako, marred by inconsistent service and a bland menu selection. I’ve always liked Kokako’s previous location in Parnell and Federal & Wolfe in the CBD is also great, so a return visit to Grey Lynn is definitely planned.
A Reason To Return
To head back for brunch of baked eggs with kumara, black beans, and chilli and coriander. Now that sounds like a vegetarian dish that definitely delivers on flavour.
Kokako Cafe and Roastery has been reviewed by 1 users