Celebrating 10 Years of Blue Rose Cafe

Ten years ago, partners Robbie Kainuku and Lenny Steven opened a small café in Sandringham with five tables and a big dream: to serve the food they love — honest, comforting Pacific soul food.

“We started Blue Rose because we wanted to start something up that had our food that we like to cook, with our Pacifica, Māori flavors through it,” says Robbie.

It began with a simple vision, but the impact has been global. “People come there, that’s their first stop. We just got in from LA or Australia, and we got told to come here. Even this family from Singapore — Nana, Mum, Dad, grandma, auntie, uncle, all the kids. They Googled Pacific food, and this place came up.”

Robbie grew up in Māngere and learned to cook from his mother. “She was a Pākehā and made really good Island food. When she married my dad, she wanted to learn and do it really well... My mum’s my biggest inspiration.”

Among the café’s best-loved items is the palusami pie, which Robbie proudly calls his creation. “I believe that I’m the food group. I invented that version.” Inspired by a conversation with a Samoan friend, the now-famous pie blends luau with corned beef — a combination that quickly became a signature dish.

“Just last week someone came second in the Bakehouse Pie competition with a palusami pie. I’m absolutely flattered... I’m glad that it’s normalized in a bakery, like a mince and cheese. It’s more than just the pie.”

For Robbie and Lenny, the café is more than a business. It’s a community space, a cultural anchor, and a daily source of joy. “We go home every night satisfied with what we have. I love coming to work.”

Looking ahead, the couple is open to growth, but in no rush. “We've looked into it... but I don't want to spread it too thin. Over here is the hub. If you want it, you'll come and get it. And they do.”

After a decade of pies, people, and purpose, the mission remains the same. “We’re super proud to have this as our lifestyle. I never get sick of coming here.”