The Junction Eatery - CLOSED

Overview

The Junction's spacious deck makes for an incredible brunch spot. Off the main strip in Birkenhead it sits just above the treetops, with sweeping views over native bush, Auckland Harbour, Rangitoto and North Head. There are few better ways to spend a sunny Sunday morning than looking out over this vista, with a strong cup of coffee in hand and something delicious on your plate.

Out front there's another more shaded outdoor area, which is often packed with young families enjoying a late brunch. The inside of the venue is long and narrow, set over two stories and decorated in modern style and dark but warm colours.

We were stoked when we discovered that the menu looks almost as good as the view off the deck. Service runs from breakfast to dinner, with each section offering unique takes on classic dishes that show the chef has creativity and flair. The beetroot infused salmon gravlax ($16) was one example, featuring salmon dyed red with beetroot juice and generous seasoning, alongside a warm croissant, scrambled eggs and a dash of chive mascarpone. The croissant is a beautiful buttery thing, and the salmon and chive mascarpone are both delicious, if a little sparingly applied.

In typical shore café style, The Junction's eggs benedict is another stand out ($19). The folks in the kitchen certainly know their way around a poached egg, and the burnt butter hollandaise adds a slightly surprising twist to an otherwise delicious but ordinary brekkie meal. The brunch menu looks equally as tempting with beauties like the braised lamb sliders, with minted chilli and aioli slaw ($20) or the Italian prosciutto with french goat's cheese and sliced pear ($23).

With a dependable and slightly creative menu, an excellent selection of smoothies and of course coffee that hits the spot, we reckon those just north of the bridge might have just found their new local café. With summer over and the days getting colder we prescribe some time spend on their deck with a beer/coffee/eggs benny at hand to right your woes.