Where The Wolves Eat - CLOSED

Overview

In the rustic-chic setting of this Morningside cafe, food takes centre stage. The bold flavours pack a seriously good bite, with large portion sizes to satisfy even the hungriest of beasts. Natural light streams through the large windows, and the high exposed-beam ceiling creates a spacious interior where lattes and croque madames are devoured under the watchful gaze of two wolves in mural form.

The menu prowls the line between traditional cafe fare and authentic American-style eats — a hybrid that's reflected in dishes like the fried chicken french toast with chipotle slaw and pineapple-habanero glaze ($18). While it also does eggs on toast 'your way' ($12), you'll most likely be drawn to the unexpected offerings on its all-day breakfast menu, such as the cacio e pepe — a luxurious two-cheese spaghetti with poached eggs and sourdough ($18). Until you've done fancy breakfast pasta, you haven't truly lived.

The dishes take many twists and turns, with bespoke condiments adding tonnes of flavour. The syrup on its Wolf Country Pancakes — with pork-and-fennel sausage crumble — is chipotle and bourbon-spiked maple ($18). The brisket and gruyère sandwich is smeared with decadent black-garlic aioli and Worcestershire onion jam ($22). Where The Wolves Eat offers a truly unique brunching experience.

It has also amped up breakfast classics, like eggs benny with house-smoked salmon and spinach, smothered in paprika hollandaise ($19). A kid's menu means cubs can devour their own small prey, including stacks of pancakes with maple syrup ($10). The specials change as inspiration strikes, as do the home-baked savoury and sweet muffins — raspberry and white chocolate is a particular highlight.

Whatever beverage you need, Where The Wolves Eat has you covered — with a smooth espresso roast from Hardy Boys as well as a range of cold-pressed juices, smoothies and organic ginger beer. To booze up your brunch, there are several beers on tap: Newstead's Ballymore, Stone & Wood's Pacific Ale and Asahi.

Despite the gourmet flavours, Where The Wolves Eat still feels welcoming and down to earth, following the simple ethos of good food done well with, of course, a dash of creativity.