Birkenhead Point and Northcote Point have the best cafes and fine dining in an area that is otherwise lacking such luxuries. The Northcote Tavern is a popular, if shabby, watering hole. Considering it’s a comparatively low-socio economic suburb, Birkdale is the surprise culinary highlight of the area, with a good cafe, Verrans Espresso & Food (09 481 629), and restaurant, Verbena Restaurant & Bar (09 483 9571).