Food - key in our lives has always held a special place in my heart - I’m a foodie born and raised!
I must say I think I have an inbuilt radar for finding delicious places to eat. A bit of bias, but I believe Ponsonby offers the best selection of restaurants/cafes in the whole of Auckland. This month I will introduce two of my new favourite eateries and pay tribute to two of my most treasured spots that I just keep going back to.
New(ish) on the Ponsonby Road strip
Mumbaiwala
Calling all curry fans - and even those who aren’t - Mumbaiwala might just change your mind! Situated at 252 Ponsonby Road lies this bustling Indian restaurant. Recently discovered by my family and I, it has quickly risen to the top of our list (which is a pretty difficult task for particular people like us). The menu itself offers so many varied, unique dishes and its extraordinarily generous array of vegan and gluten-free options puts many other restaurants to shame. You’ll find creamy curries, delicious dhals, even a crisp, limey coleslaw to refresh the palate, and so much more!
While my top recommendation is the Aloo Tikki Chaat - a sweet, tangy, crispy potato sensation - each dish is so different yet all share one thing in common, the yum factor! I can’t begin to describe the delectable spices and intense flavours laced into every dish, bringing you a truly authentic experience. I am not exaggerating when I say, I think it’s simply the best Indian I’ve tasted in New Zealand. Everyone needs to come and experience the heavenly Mumbaiwala; just make sure you reserve in advance in order to avoid disappointment.
Parade
One of the newer kids on the block is the burger house, Parade, located at 250 Ponsonby Road - next door to Mumbaiwala actually (talk about convenient!). Parade differs from your usual burger joint boasting an ‘Americanised’ menu with: Burgers served on pretzels (which are made from scratch every day), generously loaded fries, spicy wings - the list goes on.
Though I wish I could have ordered the whole menu, I decided to opt for the “Single Smash" - meat patty, American cheese, special sauce and of course pickles, all on a pretzel bun. It had me licking my lips in delight, giving my taste buds an exciting new experience. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available, allowing everyone to indulge in a good ol' burger - no exclusions at Parade!
Golden Oldies
Bread & Butter Cafe
There is no better way to kick off a great day than a scrumptious brekkie. As it's my favourite meal of the day, I certainly know the best places to eat, such as my family's go-to: Bread & Butter. As you enter you are immediately greeted with an incredible choice of counter foods which will have you drooling and ready to dig in. Behind the glass are many savoury delights, as well as a plentiful spread of sweet nibbles to satisfy those cravings.
I personally recommend the cinnamon and walnut sticky bun. But don’t miss their carefully crafted menu which changes seasonally adding some refreshing excitement throughout the year. Often I go for a delicious selection of sides or a hearty meal such as an iconic big breakfast, or the decadent French toast. Also, remember to sample their freshly baked bread and excellent coffee. Be sure to add this cafe to your list; that’s if it isn’t already on it. Located next to Farros at 34 Westmoreland Street West.
Janken
You haven’t properly eaten Japanese food until you have been to Janken (or Japan). I cannot rate Janken highly enough, it has been a consistent favourite of mine for years. Located at 158 Jervois Road, it’s a quick walk from home, making it very hard to resist.
However, it’s recent transition from restaurant into cafe has left me a bit bummed, as it no longer serves dinner. Thankfully, all is not lost because you can still get takeaways up until 6pm. Hence our family can continue to order our beloved Bento Boxes, which have become an absolute staple for us. Our friends love them too, providing another excuse to indulge in this delicious embodiment of Japanese flavours. I always go for the tofu bento box, but my pals love the chicken and pork versions. It’s a stunning all-in-one meal, including a salad, protein and rice - truly a culinary work of art. (HONOUR MITCHELL)
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