Tucked away on Graham Street in the heart of the business district is Major Sprout. It is the latest venue of the creators of Dear Jervois, a much loved Auckland brunch spot. Heading up the kitchen is Phil Czerwonatis, former chef of Rosie cafe in Parnell.

Imitating a garden feel, the cafe is light and airy with a fresh, crisp feel. Flowers and plants adorn any spare available nook and cranny and you would be forgiven for thinking that you were in a fauna filled conservatory in the middle of the bush.

The menu is Korean inspired and the breakfast, lunch and brunch options will have you drooling in anticipation.

The Yellowfin Tuna served with zucchini, preserved lemon hummus, upland cress and pine nuts was soft and meaty. The sesame seed crust provided the texture whilst the lemon hummus gave it that acidic hit.

The Mushroom Gnocchi consisted of pickled oyster mushrooms, pan-fried mushrooms, truffled potato gnocchi and a 62 degrees Celsius hen’s egg. Perfectly poached, the yolk oozed onto the mushrooms – a very comforting brunch dish!

From the Sides section of the menu we chose the Kimchi Crepe. A light, thin, fluffy crepe stuffed with kimchi, mozzarella and a tofu crumb. The kimchi gave the crepe a real kick – perfectly matched with the creaminess of the mozzarella.

The Kumara Skins were fluffy on the inside, piping hot and had a crunchy exterior. The accompanying sriracha mayonnaise added a hint of spice.

When we saw this dessert being delivered to other tables, we decided before we’d even ordered our mains that we were having this dish. The stack of Buttermilk Pancakes came with an almond mascarpone, butterscotch, toasted marshmallows and the piece de resistance – the candy floss topping!

Service was slick and professional, (Thanks to Ivan Lecanda for looking after us!)  – but get there early on the weekend. They had run out of the Crunchy Gentleman Toastie – ah well, just another excuse to go back…………..

Major Sprout

21 Graham Street

Auckland Central

Auckland 1010

Tel: 09 307 7172

https://www.facebook.com/majorsprout/