Hemi - CLOSED

Overview

In recent years Auckland's historic brickwork precinct Victoria Park Market has welcomed a rejuvenation with new stores and eateries popping up — from dedicated kava rooms to opulent caviar venues and cocktail swill houses. New on the scene, Hemi Eatery brings simple yet fresh options to VPM whether you're after brunch over the weekend or lunch on a weekday.

The shop embraces a minimalistic design with high ceilings and marble brick and floors. The space is made up of neutral colours, while the furniture is chic and stylish. The nice outdoor eating area is particularly inviting under the sun.

After we sat down, we were served almost instantly by the staff. The drinks menu has got you covered with the usual black and white coffee, but it's also got a large selection of cold sodas, kombucha and smoothies.

I'm always a bit fan of all-day breakfast menus, because who doesn't love having waffles for lunch and dinner, too? In addition to that, there is a build-your-own salad option with several different proteins to add — think chicken, tofu, haloumi, sirloin and lamb rump.

We ordered from the all-day breakfast menu. I debated between the sweet waffle with berry and banana ($13) and the savoury waffle with kahawai ($16). I ended up with the latter because it's not every day you get to try a savoury waffle. The waffle was a lot harder/tougher than expected, but it worked with the creme fraiche, smoked fish and poached egg placed on top. We also tried the buckwheat polenta with grilled mushrooms, kale, tomatoes and truffle oil ($14). It's such a glorious and filling vegetarian dish, packed with all the best ingredients.

Run by the Miller family, the space also operates as the kitchen for Mint Kitchen Catering and Thinkfood. Hemi brings another quality breakfast, brunch and lunch option to the inner city scene and we can't wait to see what it'll grow to in the future.