Crave

Crave are a café/social enterprise that gives all of their profits back to the community. They have grown quickly, upsizing from a number of smaller spaces to the reconverted mechanics shop they are in now. This large, lofty space has finally given them the room they needed to house the comings and goings of the Morningside community. “We think that outstanding coffee, superb food and engaging conversations in locally crafted spaces are a brilliant way to show ‘manaakitanga’ to all. ‘Manaakitanga’ is hospitality, welcoming, kindness, generosity, respect and support, especially to those visiting.”

Serving delicious Supreme coffee, a range of alternative plant lattes such as charcoal, turmeric and beetroot, a menu of breakfast/lunch dishes, (a crowd favourite is the ‘funghi’- mushrooms, potato rostis, parmesan and rocket) and a cabinet of sandwiches and sweet treats (most days their famous cheese scones sell out by 11am); Crave is attracting people from far and wide with their friendly service, warm atmosphere and delicious food.

With larger private rooms for hire upstairs, they’re a popular space for events, and have recently opened up on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, serving Tapas and local brews and their own ‘Morningcider’ apple cider. There is a loyal following of locals who frequent this large space for meetings, lunch dates and breakfast and, as well, you’ll always find a corner to curl up in to read. They’ve also got wifi and a work space upstairs for the students and freelancers.

Their continued efforts to connect the neighbourhood is having a great impact on the area, hosting community events such as cooking classes, ethical markets, street parties and even a “Community Christmas Wrapathon” with a side of carol singing. The café has also just launched a gelato/take away espresso bar, serving ‘Little ‘Lato’, a new gelato brand on the Auckland scene: we recommend the Lemon Cheesecake!