Sugar Cafe
A little sweetness on the North Shore! Tucked beside Auckland’s iconic Chelsea Sugar Factory in Birkenhead, Sugar Café at Chelsea Bay is a bit of a hidden gem, and quite the change of scenery from our usual city lunch spots. With sweeping views across the Waitematā Harbour, lush green gardens and the rather impressive sugar refinery as its backdrop, it’s certainly not your average café setting. The light-filled space makes the most of its waterfront location, with plenty of windows to soak up the scenery and outdoor seating that’s just begging for a sunny afternoon. The all-day menu covers your brunch and lunch favourites, while the cabinet of sweet treats is a fitting nod to its sugary surroundings. It would be rude not to indulge, right?
Our visit happened to fall smack bang in the middle of the school holidays, so the place was buzzing with families and things were running at a slightly more leisurely pace. But there’s plenty to keep you entertained beyond your plate. Chelsea Bay is home to the famous Chelsea Sugar Factory, where you can take a behind-the-scenes tour, wander the surrounding grounds or simply sit back and enjoy a different perspective of Auckland’s harbour. It’s a great spot for a relaxed North Shore brunch, a family outing or a leisurely lunch with friends, especially when the sun’s out. A little off the beaten track, but well worth the detour. And with a sugar factory next door, there’s really no excuse not to finish on a sweet note!
Total spend – 2 people – $76.90
Louise had the prawn tacos and shared a chocolate lamington. She said, “Though it was the middle of school holiday chaos, I loved the location right by the water, the views from multiple windows to an alternative landscape of the city and harbour, the sunshine and the gardens. The tacos were delicious – the perfect balance of tangy, chilli and juicy and the company was superb. Service was Ok, bit delayed and hesitant but that won’t stop me coming back for a tour of the sugar factory!”
Mel had a decaf flat white and ate the pulled pork burger & fries, sharing half a chocolate lamington. She said, “Such a lovely location, the views are what make it! Having the outside area to sit in over the summer will draw me back for sure, food was delish, my burger was juicy and full of flavour!”
