Rachel Dobbs
The health-conscious, modern, and tight-knit community of Mount Maunganui seemed just the place for Monique Hemmingson to realise her dream of opening a wholefoods eatery. It’s proved an inspired decision. Since opening Wild One Wholefoods Eatery, in late June, the locals have been loving it.
Owner Monique Hemmingson. Photography by Rachel Dobbs
Wild One’s aim is to promote healthy eating by showing rather than telling. Flavour comes first, but the delicious flavours on offer are often vegan, or free of gluten, dairy, or refined sugar – or all of the above.
Mention words like ‘gluten free’ and there are some that snigger. We double dare those people to eat a portobello and black bean beetroot burger from Wild One and not be converted; it contains all the hearty comfort of a fat and juicy burger with none of the greasy regret.
Photography by Rachel Dobbs
Monique came to this way of eating through suffering health issues herself, and discovering that what she ate could either heal or hurt her. Working through our summers so she could travel during Northern Hemisphere summers, she had real difficulty – at home and abroad – finding places that catered to her needs. During a two-year stint in London, she began getting serious about opening her own wholefoods cafe, and when a space came up in Mount Maunganui (a destination she knew to be enjoying a flourishing food scene), she was ready to make the leap.
Photography by Rachel Dobbs
The Wild One menu is designed to work equally well for breakfast, brunch or lunch. Case in point: the spiced smashed avocado served on house-made bread is a good time, any time. Sweet tooths will love the blueberry banana pecan pancakes drizzled with agave syrup. And for something with a spicy kick, the lightly fried Vietnamese rice paper rolls with tamari soy dipping sauce are the go.
Photography by Rachel Dobbs
To sip, there’s an impressive smoothie menu, cold-pressed juices, a must-try golden milk (iced turmeric latte) and much more. Or grab yourself a flat white and something from the cabinet, and walk the few steps to Pilot Bay for a beach-side bite. Maybe a chocolate and cinnamon baked doughnut, a peanut butter black bean brownie, or a moist mini chocolate cake. The sweet treats here are so decadent, you’ll suspect they’re lying about the refined sugar-free thing.
Photography by Rachel Dobbs
As we head into the warmer months, Wild One will be extending its hours and embracing new season produce with a few menu updates. But don’t worry, you can still get that burger.
Photography by Rachel Dobbs
Wild One Wholefoods Eatery
7 Prince Avenue, Mount Maunganui
Story by: Alana Broadhead. Photography by: Rachel Dobbs.
