What should I order at The Espy Cafe?
The Espy Cafe
Coffee
Mentioned repeatedly as strong, excellent, and served very quickly; many reviewers said it was a highlight of their visit.
Eggs Bene
Praised for being delicious and part of a standout breakfast, with reviewers specifically calling out the taste and quality.
Homemade Scones
Recommended because reviewers remembered the taste fondly and said they were worth ordering even just as a snack.
Big Breakfast
Recommended for its generous portion size and great taste, making it a satisfying brunch or breakfast choice.
Seafood Chowder
Strongly recommended for being rich, creamy, and packed with seafood; one reviewer said it was unforgettable.
Calamari Salad
Called a go-to meal that 'never fails to hit the spot,' showing it is a reliable favorite.
Espy Club Sandwich
Praised as being made to perfection, with crunchy fries alongside it that completed the meal.
Waffles
Kids loved them, making them a clear family-friendly favorite.
Pancakes
Also a hit with the kids and one of the breakfast items specifically mentioned as well-loved.
Steak Burgers
Recommended because kids absolutely loved them, suggesting they are a popular and satisfying option.
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
About The Espy Cafe
The Espy Cafe is a cafe and breakfast restaurant in Whitianga, New Zealand. It serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, with coffee, small plates, vegan options, and vegetarian options also available. Reviewers consistently praise the quick service, friendly staff, and the food, especially items like creamy mushrooms, milkshakes, scones, club sandwiches, and cabinet food. Many reviews also mention the outdoor seating and views over the water or harbour.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fireplace
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is The Espy Cafe known for?
It is especially known for milkshakes, creamy mushrooms, and its waterfront setting in Whitianga near the wharf and boat ramp. Reviewers also point to fast service and a menu that works well for both adults and kids.
What dishes are most recommended at The Espy Cafe?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the Calamari Salad, ESPY Club Sandwich, Eggs Benedict, homemade date scones, bacon and egg pie, and Creamy Mushrooms. The sweet counter, fruit salad, and lemon tart also come up as strong picks, especially for a quick breakfast or snack.
What is the atmosphere like at The Espy Cafe?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and busy, with outdoor seating and views over the water, harbour, and nearby boat activity. It suits groups, tourists, and solo diners, and reviewers say it works well for families because service stays quick even when the cafe is full.
Is The Espy Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is NZ$20 to 30, and reviewers describe it as affordable with reasonable portions. People mention good value on items like the big breakfast, vegetarian salad, and kids' meals, even on busy days when the cafe is full.
When is the best time to visit The Espy Cafe?
Breakfast before a boat ride is a popular time, and reviewers say service is quick enough to leave time to walk around the area afterward. Even on busy public holidays and hot lunchtime rushes, wait times were described as minimal.
Is parking available at The Espy Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does The Espy Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Espy Cafe offers vegan options.
Is The Espy Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, The Espy Cafe is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Espy Cafe in Whitianga
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