Sierra, Mission Bay

If there's one thing New Zealand does exceptionally well with a remarkable degree of consistency, it's cafés. This is something the UK struggles with, even in these enlightened times. Every time I've visited New Zealand, and on numerous occasions since we've moved here, I've been impressed by the average standard - from the quality of the coffee (except in Esquires, always excellent) to the muffins, sandwiches and larger plates, you're almost always in good hands.

Sierra is a cookie-cutter modern New Zealand café, all clean, white lines and classic brunch-style menu. The coffee is slightly above average, the food definitely in the top quartile, with the missus' pancakes fluffy and light, with a healthy serving of lean bacon and plenty of fruit and syrup. My grill was excellently cooked throughout, with superbly rich creamed field mushrooms in addition to the usual suspects. One criticism I do have is the way they add in unadvertised ingredients - the sausages for example were actually kranskys, those little Polish sausages which I love, but not for breakfast. A difference which was worth mentioning, I think. Also with the kumara mixed in with the sautéed potatoes - I'm a fan of kumara in general, but it's a very different flavour to potato and thus shouldn't be snuck into a well-worn formula like breakfast without mentioning it on the menu.

Service was pleasant and efficient, portions were on the large side, prices were reasonable given the location, and that'll do me, thank you very much. A great place for brunch.


Sierra Café
2/33 Tamaki Drive
Mission Bay
Auckland

+64 (9) 521 0818