Typically, choosing the destination for Friday morning brekkie is done once the group has assembled on the waterfront. However, for the next few weeks we will make an exception to this method and choose the caf� the night before at the CYCO criterium or during late night texting sessions. This way the poor soul who is off his bike right now knows where to drive to join us for a tasty Friday treat.
Not all that long ago we stumbled upon a new caf� (off the beaten path for us anyway) in Newmarket called Caf� Monet. The first time around we all enjoyed our food, coffees and hot chocolates (for those of us who don't drink coffee), so it wasn't a hard decision to try Caf� Monet again. Although this caf� is a little dearer than the usual places we frequent, we all agreed the food, drink and service were worth a few more dollars.
The indoor seating of the caf� is small but there is ample outdoor seating for those fine summer days where everyone can enjoy food and drink under the morning sun. On this particular day the skies were looking a bit iffy so our waiter asked us if we wanted him to move us inside. We did decline his offer (because what kind of cyclist can't handle a little rain?) but the gesture was well noted, and we never did get wet.
One of the highlights of this caf� for the coffee drinkers is the lattes because they are served in a somewhat unconventional style. The steamed milk is served in a tall glass with the shot of espresso served on the side. The latte drinkers seemed to get a kick out of mixing their own lattes. For those non-coffee drinkers, the hot chocolate is quite tasty as well and is served with plenty of marshmallows, which we have decided is the trademark of a good caf�.
Getting on with brekkie, the menu offers everything from eggs and mushrooms on toast, a range of omelettes, and French toast to caramelized banana crepes with lemon and avocado. Avocado sounds a bit strange on crepes but the avocado added an extra delicious flavor to the crepes. Having an enormous sweet tooth, it was difficult for me to stray away from the usual French toast or crepes, but I gave the mushrooms on toast a go and was very pleased. All in all, everyone was very satisfied with their food and drink choices of the day, and I believe that we all gave Caf� Monet a definitive thumbs up.
Caf� Monet is located on 55 Remuera Rd, Newmarket.
By Meredith Miller
