Went for lunch a several weeks ago with admittedly modest expectations and was very pleasantly surprised on all fronts.
Having been burned oh so many times by places that choose to evoke the retro-diner/faux greasy spoon aesthetic my culinary guard went up as soon as we walked in. The friendly, super-competent, unpretentious server allayed some of those fears - when it was discovered that she was a co-owner I began to relax.
Things I liked:
- The eggs; All of the egg dishes we top notch, well plated, and offered good value for money
- The staff; friendly and competent
- Wall art; local and inspiring
- Hot sauces; lots of good ones and a super nice home made variety
Things that need improvement:
- The coffee; they need better beans - call Te Aro
- Bread - With a half dozen top notch Portuguese bakeries within walking distance they can do much better than what they have and probably even save money
This is one of those reviews where I really wish the half star was an option. While definitely 4 stars for lunch, the bread and coffee issues definitely lower the rating for breakfast.
The owners seem to truly care and I believe that deserves the benefit of the doubt.