Looking for the best breakfast in Tauranga? From classics, like Eggs Benedict, to fancy vegan options – we’ve got your morning cravings covered.
Images: Vanessa Laval-Glad
NEW HIT AT THE DRY DOCK CAFE
The Dry Dock Café in the CBD is well-known for its great coffee and extensive cabinet. But when you’re there, make sure you look beyond the mouthwatering scones and scrolls, as their hot food menu is also delicious and very creative. It’s gradually changed over the past few months. This artwork of a breakfast, for example, was first introduced as a Mother’s Day special but quickly proved it’s here to stay. Beetroot and feta smash with poached eggs and pistachio zaatar holds a perfect balance between the comfort of familiar flavours and on-trend Middle Eastern influences. Have it with coffee, supplied by Ozone coffee roasters – it’s probably the most delicious in the area!
MODERN TWIST AT OTTO
And just like that, The Strand has a new box to tick on its ever-growing ‘not to be missed’ list. Oscar and Otto are adjoining eateries at the far end of Tauranga CBD’s main street. And while the refined, dark and moody Oscar only opens after 3pm, bright and airy Otto is happy to feed you brekkie as early as 7am. Echoing the contemporary design, the food at Otto is modern and elegant. Regardless of whether you opt for exotic Moroccan eggs, hearty pork belly or one of the freshly baked cabinet options, your choice will always be served with a happy smile and a friendly chat.
VEGAN PARADISE AT GRINDZ
Been here a million times? Squeeze in a million and one! Since June, Grindz has boasted an entirely fresh menu. It’s eclectic, versatile and customisable. ‘Customers are our Gods’, admit staff members. They will happily remove ingredients you’re allergic to from your dish or swap products you simply don’t like to the ones you absolutely adore. Kiwis love the eggs Benny so it’s still the most popular option on the breakfast menu, though vegan options have definitely been scoring the points. The Jackfruit burger will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites while the raw matcha cheesecake is tailored for those with a sweet tooth.
HEALTHY APPROACH AT THE RAFT
Early birds must plug The Raft into their morning commute – there’s hardly any other spot in Tauranga offering coffee from as low as $3.00. Only valid 7-9am on weekdays! Prefer to do your workout first thing in the morning? No worries, there’s something very special for active people at The Raft as well. Please welcome the famous ‘Workout breakfast’, packed with protein and nutrients from sprouts, eggs, mushrooms and wholegrain bread. This big guy is so good, people from all over the town come specifically for this dish!
WORLDWIDE INSPIRATION AT THE FAT COW SMOKEHOUSE
With their new open fire, The Fat Cow Smokehouse at The Mount has reignited our desire for the ultimate BBQ experience. Mexican Chef Jorge Sahagun Arizaga combines flavours from all over the American continent with exclusive recipes from his European staff to create unique combinations that will tickle your taste buds. A completely new menu has been launched to celebrate their newly renovated kitchens and larger bar area. The Fat Cow is open Friday-Sunday from 11am for hearty, meaty brunches and from 2.30pm Monday-Thursday.
PERSONAL TOUCH AT THE MILL HOUSE
With a ‘kids eat free’ special offer, Sunday mornings are the busiest at The Mill House. While the little ones indulge on sweet pear and apple French toast with walnut crumble and maple syrup, you can go all sassy with the unique homemade potato rostis with smoked salmon, eggs Benedict and homemade hollandaise. Should we even mention that the mouthwatering bright-pink salmon is, of course, also smoked in-house? Championing the art of quality cuisine, chefs at The Mill House hand pick the finest local produce and the tastiest seasonal ingredients for every single dish.
