2 Best Restaurants in Ponsonby, Auckland

One of the area's most popular breakfast and lunch places, Dizengoff serves hearty Jewish (but not kosher) food to an eclectic clientele. The coffee is among the best around, and there is an ever-changing selection of New Zealand art. This place is always busy; avoid weekends unless you get here early for breakfast (no later than 8). The lemon poppy-seed muffins and coffee make an excellent take-out option along with the bagel filled with chicken and red cabbage.

Part of the Ponsonby Road old guard, this café has been serving its loyal customers since 1996. The menu offers breakfast staples like eggs and bacon, but you can also mix it up with coconut yogurt, muesli, and superb salads at lunchtime. A big central table brings together its diverse patrons, and separate tables are also available for those wanting a more private dining experience. The outside tables are busy in the morning when the gym and bicycle set are grazing post exercise.