North Island

North Island’s minimalist style infuses more than just the interior design aesthetic (such as hanging light bulbs, cement flooring and white walls); it’s a pared-back menu, but with just enough variation to keep things interesting. Bombay toast served with blueberry compote and pear & orange blossom cream sits comfortably on the menu alongside a humble bowl of coco pops. For the savoury inclined, North Island shies away from the standard egg-centric breakfast fare and instead offers dishes such as herb-roasted field mushrooms with pesto, or roasted Roma tomatoes with balsamic glaze and rocket.

The coffee (Supreme) at North Island is consistently good – and they are purists here, so no skim milk. The staff strike a good balance between being attentive and maintaining an easygoing manner that adds to the cafe’s relaxed vibe. So linger a while, read a book, or maybe scrawl something on the blackboard wall next to the communal table; noughts and crosses anyone?