Robert Harris Cafe Albany

Inside Robert Harris Cafe Albany

Robert Harris Cafe Albany is a convenient spot tucked inside the Westfield Shopping Center on Don McKinnon Drive, serving as a quiet pause amid the mall’s bustle. It’s primarily a cafe with a focus on freshly made treats and coffee, attracting a mix of shoppers and locals looking for a calm spot to recharge.

The café’s standout offerings are their banana waffles and the signature snowflake drinks like the Mango Snowflake and Cappuccino Snowflake. These items come up often in visits, noted for their balance of texture and freshness — waffles are made to order with a crisp exterior and just the right thickness, making them a more satisfying alternative to usual mall fare. Snowflake drinks, with their smooth, creamy bases, offer a refreshing twist on typical iced blends, ideal for warmer days or when you want a light, sweet pick-me-up.

In terms of coffee, the large flat whites and hot chocolates get positive mentions, with the coffee generally hitting the mark for those who value a well-prepared cup. While some have noted occasional overextraction mid-afternoon, the overall quality suits both casual sippers and those needing a caffeine boost between errands.

The atmosphere here leans toward the quiet and relaxed side, helped in part by the café’s location slightly removed from the main foot traffic, upstairs near Whitcoulls. This setting works well if you want to escape the usual mall noise and find a spot to settle with a book, catch up with a friend, or simply enjoy a break solo. The staff are consistently described as friendly and respectful, adding to the unhurried vibe.

Robert Harris Cafe Albany fits well into a weekday routine or weekend shopping trip, especially if you’re looking for a sweet snack paired with reliable coffee. It’s not a place for linger-all-day sessions, but it offers a comfortable, low-key environment to unwind briefly. Families, solo shoppers, and anyone wanting a peaceful pause in an otherwise busy retail space will find it suits their needs.

Highlights & Local Essentials

Highlights

Great coffee

Great dessert

Great tea selection

Popular for

Breakfast

Lunch

Solo dining

Good for working on laptop

What they serve

Coffee

Quick bite

Small plates

Best for

Breakfast

Brunch

Lunch

Dessert

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible car park

Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Wheelchair-accessible seating

Parking

Free of charge street parking

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

What Locals & Travelers Say

40 Reviews

JW Kim

04 Jan 2026

This place is definitely undervalued. I come here once a week to have their waffles and snowflakes. I have been to many dessert places in New Zealand and their waffles and snowflakes are the best in Auckland. The base of the snowflake is very smooth and fresh. Also the Waffle is far better than Eggl** as the waffle bread has the perfect thickness & crispy. Also their flat white tastes fabulous. Highly recommend this place!

MJ Justm

25 Dec 2025

I really love the waffles at this café. They're freshly made to order, which is a big plus. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing—perfect if you enjoy a peaceful spot. The coffee is also really good!

Sherryk Koswara

25 Dec 2025

Really lovely little gem hidden away upstairs in whitcoulls. Most of the cabinet food was gone by the afternoon but they have great waffle selections which comes with a complimentary coffee. Staff are so lovely, and it's just nice and secluded to unwind from such a busy mall. Coffee was average, a little over-extracted even though it wasn't busy but the iced drink selections were well made and they got some interesting dessert choices. Only downside is no outdoor view, only a balcony to look down at a foodcourt and that half of the seating area are dimly lit.

Marcos Beyond Borders

21 Dec 2025

The Korean people are well known worldwide for their kindness and respect, but this place takes it to another level. The service was absolutely flawless, the food and coffee were delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It might be a bit hidden, but it’s definitely a gem worth discovering. I couldn’t recommend it more!

Suzie S

25 Oct 2025

Love their Waffle and coffee. Fresh made waffle with a cup of coffee can make your day sweeter. Tried Tiramisu cake for a first time and it was nice too. Recommended!

Nathan

20 Oct 2025

I enjoyed both the mango snowflake and the latte, rating them a perfect 100 out of 100. I am certainly looking forward to my next visit.

Claudia Vaya

28 Sep 2025

I don’t understand the low ratings. This place is a cute little hide from the crowded mall with good coffees and shaved ice. Went here 2 years ago for 2 shaved ice and ice was smooth and sweetness level was perfect. I got the frappe recently and did not regret it. It’s nice. Staff were friendly and service was quick.

Inside Robert Harris Cafe Albany

Highlights & Local Essentials

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

Openings Hours

What Locals & Travelers Say

40 Reviews

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