Elisabeth

Amongst the chaos of big city life, navigating roadworks, bikers and buses, it is often the little things that reinstall our faith in this big ol' smoke we call home. And, funnily enough one of those little things goes by the name of Elisabeth, a café dishing up dessert right in the heart of Kingsland.

Nestled just off New North Road, the establishment offers a plethora of puddings all begging the question: why bother with dinner? There is a tasting menu — a Belgian degustation that regularly rotates dependant on the daily gateaux, ice cream and ganache offering. Being traditionally untraditional, Elisabeth also provides for its alternative clientele with an abundance of gluten-free macarons and melt-in-your-mouth brownies, and for the lovely vegans — a collection of animal-friendly cakes featuring cruelty-free lattes. How's that for being global citizens?

It's not only the cosy atmosphere, friendly staff and luxurious cabinet fit for Queen Lizzy herself that are getting us a-go-go, but the prospect of bottomless coffee teamed with Auckland's addiction to caffeine — it's a sure-fire recipe for success.

The Elisabeth crew don't muck around either when it comes to their hot chocolate. Not just any old home brew, the chocolate 'Mess' is sourced from the Sao Tome regions of West Africa, aka 'The Chocolate Islands'. Opt for a mug of the fluffy decadence and choose between mayan chilli, peppermint, ginger or lamington, all doused in sweet chocolate shavings fresh from their built-in chocolate block.

On a chilly winter's eve this sweet little shop is a café to cherish. Simply the most logical of locations to plant yourself, warm your mits with a cup of coco and indulge in their unquestionably exquisite fare.