“Coffee and community” — that’s how one of this year’s People’s Choice nominators summed up Lil Cuzzies, the runaway winner of the award and a beloved Mt Roskill spot that locals have quietly treasured. Cradled just inside the entrance of The Y Cameron Pool and Leisure Centre, it’s a compact, welcoming cafe serving dependable espresso and hearty bites to eat with a familiar, friendly energy. Apart from the occasional granola bowl or decked-out waffle dish, most of the food here will be found in the cabinet, whether it’s a no-frills toastie or one of their many homey sweets and slices. Its location makes it a natural gathering place for parents corralling kids pre- or post-swim class or locals padding in with slides and damp hair post-laps, but anyone can go to this friendly neighbourhood cornerstone.

While you’re in the area: Keith Hay Park, Shree Ganesh Top in Town Food & Spices