Rebel Rebel

Overview

Living in Auckland, there's absolutely no need to cook brunch. And by the looks of many cafes during the morning rush, no one seems to. However, with an abundance of cafes, the menus and dishes can all start to blur into one. It's rare to find an eatery that not only serves up delicious cuisine but also does it in a unique way.

Newly opened on Fanshawe Street, Rebel Rebel is looking to bring a European style of brunch to the city. Owner Olga Diez Roman, who many will know from Baguette & Co., combines her French and Spanish roots with the expertise and creative flair of her Sicilian head chef Marco Conigliaro. Together, they have designed a menu that is clever, authentic and brings out the best of local ingredients and produce. 

Rebel Rebel encourages you to try a variety of dishes on the menu, each reasonably priced which is then served on a wooden board. Inspired by the tapas style of eating, it allows diners to have a wide range of flavours in one sitting. Thoroughly authentic yet entirely unique to Rebel Rebel, the menu brings out the best of local flavours and serves them up in European manner.

Highlights of the menu include the green shakshuka, a baked egg with goats cheese, deliciously paired with Chef Marco's own green sauce. There's also the Spanish croquetas, made with parmesan, mushroom and finished off with a delectable truffle oil. Another favourite is the salmon gravlax which is cured salmon, from the local fish market paired with zested herb mayo on freshly baked rye bread. Specials of the day include soup and pasta if you're after something heartier. 

For those seeking something on the lighter side, you can't miss the honey-coated granola with Greek yoghurt and rhubarb raspberry compote. And for a quick takeaway, Rebel Rebel serves up a range of delicious pastries and baguette sandwiches. 

While the food is clearly inspired by traditional European flavours, there is a distinct Kiwi element to many of the dishes. Ingredients such as the mozzarella di bufala and Italian charcuterie are imported from Italy, but the majority of the rest are sourced locally. As such, the dishes have a fusion of flavours, the best of both styles of cuisine. 

This is all paired with Auckland favourite, Allpress coffee, and judging by all the customers coming through, is already popular with the locals. The only downside is that Rebel Rebel is yet to serve alcohol nor do they have wifi available. However, as we get closer to the warmer weather, I have no doubt that this will change. Situated in the beautiful Kauri Timber Building, give yourself a break from the hustle and bustle of the CBD and enjoy their hospitality. Whether it's a sit down tapas-style brunch, fresh pasta or simply a coffee, Rebel Rebel do it well.