Greys Ave Deli

Overview

It would be very easy to walk by Greys Ave Deli and not even realise it was there. Only a very unassuming door in the side of the building and a small white sign indicates the existence of the only totally kosher cafe in Auckland.

Attached to Auckland's Orthodox synagogue and Kadimah School, Greys Ave is a cosy little cafe that is a regular favorite for those who know about it. The interior, which used to be the old Kadimah library, utilizes the old bookshelves to display the deli products and snacks they have on sale. Fridges line the walls filled with kosher meats ready to buy, drinks (they used to have the Boylons range stocked but alas no longer), and a selection of ready made kosher meals to take home and cook. They also have a great selection of vegetarian 'meats' like 'Pops' vegetarian chicken nuggets - these puppies have pride of place in my work freezer for a quick lunch or afternoon snack.

Then there is the cabinet filled with fresh new salads, bagels, sandwiches and slices. Their salads are a big draw card, particularly their spinach, haloumi and zucchini salad with lemon zest and olive oil - my boyfriend has declared this to be the best salad he's ever had. We've now recreated it numerous times at home and for pot lucks and I almost have to agree with him, it's a damn good salad. And if you are partial to a wee sweet slice after your meal I highly recommend the mini cheesecake or caramel slice with coffee - simple classics done just right.

Whether you are popping in for a quick breakfast or a cosy lunch Greys Ave provides a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere to enjoy simple, healthy, delicious food served by wonderfully happy staff. It's really my favorite kind of cafe - both unassuming and completely fantastic.