Chelsea Bay’s new eatery ‘Sugar’ and the visitor centre at the Sugar Works has been open now for nearly 3 months and it is proving a massive hit with both young and old. Having recently been there with my family, it’s easy to see why.

Set at the iconic Birkenhead sugar factory, the new visitors centre is modern, clean and situated right on the waterside providing stunning views of Auckland bridge and the CBD skyline. There is also ample parking, a kids playground, a free interactive area and a fabulous cafe that serves – you guessed it – sweet treats!

With the desire to encourage more young New Zealanders into baking, Chelsea Bay not only designed a new baking school but they also partnered up with Fram Mazza and Aaran Carson (of Winona Forever and Major Tom) to offer a great eatery with an amazing array of cakes and sweet treats at the counter, a delicious brunch menu, and of course a stunning high tea.

The food not only looks incredible but tastes amazing. The delicate finishing touches of edible flowers and micro greens add a certain prestige to the plate and the price tag is also very reasonable for Auckland. It really is a place you can take the whole family and spend a few hours taking it all in.

There are factory tours available during the week which take you through the sugar factory and teach you about how sugar is made, then enables you to taste the delicious syrups and see the sugar mountain. My kids loved the experience. With sugar usage being a hot topic right now, it’s good to show kids that it’s not evil and in fact is an awesome ingredient in moderation.

So all in all, Sugar is highly recommended but I would strongly advise you to book a table or go early, especially if you are wanting to go at the weekend!

Take a look at the website at www.chelsea.co.nz/chelseabay/cafe