Run by Yasuji and Fumi Hisai, Coffee Pen is a beloved neighbourhood spot in an unassuming location. Find it at the bottom of steeply sloping Basque Road, just down from New North Road, with a petite indoor area that houses the counter, kitchen and coffee machine, and a handful of tables outside under shelter or sun umbrellas.

Order from the daily-changing menu of comforting cabinet food. Coffee Pen’s sweets have a following of their own – like the best home baking you’ll ever try. You might get Earl Grey cheesecake or tiramisu tart. If you’re after something savoury, maybe a lasagne or a wholesome frittata.

Yas has worked as a barista for many years, including for a long stint in Sydney. At Coffee Pen, he and Fumi work with Auckland coffee roaster Be Specialty to create the Pen original blend – which they also supply wholesale and for home.