Backyard Cafe

What’s a visit to the local garden store without stopping off for a coffee and scone after all? Luckily for you Backyard Café in Porirua knows that seed shopping isn’t complete without some caffeine on the side, and the light and spacious eatery is often full with those passing through Palmers.

The friendly women behind the counter are a smiley start to your day, and being well looked after here doesn’t so much feel like a job requirement as simply a genuine way of interacting with Porirua locals. Pies, wraps, filled croissants and tasty looking scones are just some of the options in the abundant cabinet, but if hunger pains are really hitting home then a browse through Backyard Cafés menu is an obvious choice. French toast made with croissants, fried banana, strawberries and almonds is a big hit with the sweet toothed breakfast eaters, otherwise there’s eggs in every way you could dream of, avocado smash for the millennials and burgers for those who need a hearty lunch. Have your coffee with soy, coconut or almond mylk, or try one of their master milkshakes (choc toffee or apple pie anyone?) for a modern take on a nostalgic classic.

Sit in the outdoor courtyard (that on Saturdays turns into a stage for their very own Backyard Beats), where with foliage in every nook and cranny, there’s a peaceful vibe here that comes with eating in what feels like a real life oasis.