Coffee Pen

This stylish cafe, run by Yasuji and Fumi Hisai, hardly needs an introduction at this point — it’s a well-versed favourite of both neighbourhood locals and farther-flung Aucklanders (and by now a regular on these cafe lists). However, we still find ourselves with things to say about it. Nestled on a gentle slope between Basque Park and a blend of residential and industrial spaces, it feels like an urban retreat, shaded by trees. Seating inside is limited, so if you’re dining in, you’ll most likely be sipping your coffee al fresco, at one of the tables set beneath umbrellas or the building’s awnings. Coffee is impeccable. Everything in the cabinet is insanely tasty and changes daily, so there’s no risk of boredom. Our advice? Don’t get too attached to any one item; come ready to try something new. More advice: you probably don’t need a slice of whatever fantastical cheesecake has been dreamed up that day, to finish off your lunch (or breakfast), but you should get one anyway.

While you’re in the area: Basque Park, Super Trash