Come on now, it’s not that Auckland’s eastern ‘burbs lack a food scene… on the contrary, nobody is going to go hungry with the likes of The Burbs or Xacuti in the ‘hood. But, we’re pretty sure the Howickians in our midst wouldn’t turn their noses up at a few more options to add to the mix. And so, heeding the call for a family-friendly spot serving up eats that prioritise provenance, it’s fair to say an audible, overjoyed sigh swept forth as soon as the doors at Source Cafe in Pakuranga opened last Friday.

Endeavouring to go straight to the ‘source’ (hence the name), Nik Webb-Shephard, Nikki Prendergast and Michelle Pratt decided it was time to take a concept they had long talked about and turn it into something a little more tangible. Working closely with the Think and Shift designers, the expansive sun-soaked space (built from scratch) is more than a cafe, it’s a beacon of hope — from the chair you settle on to the eggs bene you dive knife-first into — for those who favour ethical and sustainably sourced goods (the on-site shelves are brimming with them) that also celebrate the local manufacturers and grocers that make it all possible.

Open for brunch and lunch — with a pipe dream to make the most of the evening hours — the ‘from paddock to plate’ approach is alive and well here. Start the day with the delightful toasted granola served with coconut yoghurt topped with berry compote or, opt for the French Toast Roll Ups where the cinnamon dusted morsels are served with Raglan coconut yoghurt, maple syrup, berry compote and grilled banana — either way, you won’t be disappointed. Also on offer, Best Ugly Bagels ready to be filled with everything from salmon to bacon, or try the house made beans with chorizo, poached egg and tomato.

And, with an early childhood centre conveniently located next door (as well as a menu catering specially to your pint-sized foodie), it’s only a matter of time before this becomes the sanity-saving source for parentals as well as those living out east looking to lure their city-dwelling nearest and dearest out to the ‘burbs for the 3Cs: coffee, cake and a catch-up.

Open 7 days a week from 7am-4pm, for more information, view their Facebook page here.