Cali

There’s not too many reasons to come to Newmarket for dinner except now that there is Cali. The makeover from the old Mac’s Brew Bar is now fresh and white with some great tiles and lots of plants. I love the brighter area down the rare on the right along the windows where my group this night dined.
This place is now an all-​day eatery, I could only find reviews on their day time menu but you absolutely must go for dinner as I think it was fabulous. The menu hasn’t got a hint of Korean if you ask me but the Chef is Korean.
I had the ceviche with snapper, prawn and avocado served with unusual blue corn chips. It was fresh and well presented.
I was intrigued by my friends Napa Cabbage salad with grilled chicken breast, which was a generous portion size but I went for the 24-​hour lamb neck. The meat was tender and tasty and served with white quinoa and a jus.
I didn’t order dessert but I had a mouthful of each of my friends 2 desserts and loved the apple cinnamon crumble and the fried bananas with coconut marshmallow and coconut ice cream with caramel drizzle. I thought it great that they were not deconstructed and for the price a great size dish.
The service was great, we were served by a young American girl who was very switched on and very friendly. The space was bright and spacious but a little quiet for a Friday night.
Cost: $ 67 for a starter, main and dessert and a glass of wine.

I came here for brunch a couple of weeks ago and was impressed with the transformation of the space from the Macs Brewbar to the gorgeous light filled eatery that Cali now is.
I ordered the fish tacos, which were wonderful, a green smoothie and a black coffee. The friends I were with both ordered what must be one of the most popular items on the brunch menu; eggs on toast for $ 10.50, and raved about them.
The menu gives great value for money, and it is quite extensive with everything from (aside from traditional breakfast menu) tacos, pizzettas to burgers. They all seem to be in the common theme of Californian food (hence the name Cali) with a twist to Mexican or Japanese. Although this is excellent especially when dining with a large group, as everyone likes something different, I sometimes find eateries are best when they pick a few items rather than many. In saying this, I fully intend to reserve judgement until I return and order more items to taste test!
Cali has a specific kids menu, and with such a large space I can imagine families would be very comfortable bringing everyone out here on the weekend.
The drinks menu is extensive, and paired with a few items from the grazing menu I can see myself happily spending a weekend afternoon here with friends.

Outstanding! Arguably the best Bloody Mary’s in Auckland. This so much better than the old Mac’s bar that occupied this space. It is light airy and comfortable. The staff are well trained and provide excellent service. The eggs Benedict was delicious and the Green Smoothie was great as well. Will totally be coming back here again!!!