A very good sandwich has a way of becoming part of your weekly routine, which is exactly what the team behind new opening Kiss Sandwiches is hoping for. The latest concept from Runo Group takes a more casual approach than some of its previous ventures, with a deliberately concise menu built around freshly made sandwiches, bagels and coffee, plus a few playful extras.

The food is familiar enough to be comforting, but interesting enough to warrant a second look. There is a Chicken Parm stacked with crispy chicken schnitzel, ham, house parm sauce and melted cheese, a Corned Beef Reuben with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing, and a Korean Street Toast inspired by the sandwiches found at Korean street stalls, made with an egg and vegetable omelette, cabbage, ham and a sweet house toast sauce. A smoked salmon and avocado bagel rounds things out on the lighter side.

Coffee is equally important, alongside matcha, chai, a Yuzu Kiss and a Nutella Ice Latte, which feels suitably indulgent for a place that does not take itself too seriously. That personality carries through the branding and interiors too, with Runo Group creative director Shanay Yu leading the concept, Leticia Vorster working on the brand identity and Hello Space responsible for the fit-out.

The idea behind Kiss is ultimately a simple one: to become the kind of neighbourhood spot people return to without thinking too much about it. As the team puts it, “the best neighbourhood spots are the ones you don’t really have to think about visiting. They just naturally become part of your week.”

Opening hours:
Monday – Friday 7am – 3pm
Saturday – Sunday 7:30am – 3pm

kissmylunch.co.nz