Sunday Cantina

Adding a splash of colour and fun to a Poplar Ave corner in Raumati South, Sunday Cantina is in the business of providing customers with healthy, fresh food in a cheerful environment. The dark grey exterior, decorated with pink, white and yellow, hints at what to expect when you walk through the bright front door. Things are done a bit differently here, and there is nothing plain or boring about the interiors. Astroturf clads part of the walls, and the rest is covered in hand-drawn illustrations. Colourful cushions along the window seating add a touch of softness to the space and invite you to sit back and relax.   

It’s a nice, warm, family-friendly space, which caters for all tastebuds. Known for its owner-operator Fi Greig, who has a passion for raw and plant-based food (she’s published a few cookbooks, too), at the heart of Sunday Cantina is quality produce and delicious, healthy dishes. Salads are the go-to for many regulars, and they are always created to order, to be as fresh as can be. That being said, the menu is extensive, and there is plenty to choose from, including a big breakfast, pizza, or pork belly sandwich. 

Popular with walkers and locals, this is a dog-friendly café, provided that your pooch knows how to behave – you’ll often see Fi’s little dog sleeping in her bed by the counter. Kids are also, of course, most welcome and catered for with their own menu, high chairs, and plenty of toys. 

Outdoors, a cute courtyard complete with garden swings invites you to sit and enjoy the sun when it’s out, and during the summer months, local musicians take to the stage. A side room off the main café sits ready and available to hire for private meetings, baby showers, functions, and more. Sunday Cantina also runs cooking classes (which book out very quickly) and a monthly bottomless brunch.