Overview
I did this bad thing. You see, I am not one of those people who is jumping on the raw, vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, what-is-your-food-actually-made-of bandwagon. I think it is a cool idea, and I appreciate how it has transformed the food scene in Auckland. But I just really like burgers, okay?
Anyway, after a whole lot of peer pressure and some intense arguments and a final decision to cheat on my strictly omnivorous diet, I went to Mondays. If you haven’t heard of this place yet, I will be surprised, the place has gathered some serious hype. Kingsland’s new wholefoods cafe is the product of food bloggers, Eleanor Ozich of Petite Kitchen and Hannah Horton of Health Yeah (both great reads, by the way). The two healthy friends are the epitome of the new heathy wholefoods movement, and their cafe brings their foodie philosophies to life.
The place is cute and pretty and very secret garden-y, being tucked down an alleyway lined with vines and little signposts. Despite the fact that I was cheating on meat, I couldn't help but be a little excited by the mystery and magic of it all. Upon entry, we were confronted by an impressive cabinet, overflowing with salads, savouries and treats. Everything was really colourful and pretty and healthy. Much better looking than a cheeseburger. Wait, did I just say that?
Since I was feeling guilty about my adulterous behaviour, I ordered the most burger-like option on offer. It was a smoked salmon sandwich. The bread was made from spelt and pumpkin, and the sandwich was dressed with cashew aioli. I also ordered a bumper bar because it looked unhealthy, even though they assured me that it was vegan and made mainly of coconut and apricot. They were both fantastic. I’m talking, made-me-forget-about-the-missing-cheese-and-meat-and-saturated-fats fantastic. I couldn't event finish the whole meal - who knew that healthy could also be so filling?
After enjoying my love affair with the health fad so thoroughly, I needed more from my whole foods mistress. You know what they say - once a cheater always a cheater. So I did it. I cheated on coffee. For a girl who is in an extremely loyal and monogamous relationship with the long black, I felt strong emotions of both guilt and self-disgust when ordering a cashew milk flat white. I cheated on my coffee of choice, and I don’t even regret it. The cashew milk infused the coffee with this real rich and creamy nutty taste. Guys, it was really good.
For those who are already health food obsessed, Mondays should be your obvious breakfast/brunch/lunch of choice. For those who refuse to abandon their long-term loving relationship with meat - just try it. Your carnivorous partner will never know, and even if they find out, Mondays is worth it.
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