In the heart of Ponsonby’s vibrant brunch scene, a beloved evening spot is about to make its mark on mornings. Inca, the Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant by acclaimed Chef and Restaurateur Nic Watt, is unveiling its much-anticipated Mañana (morning) menu this weekend (making you among some of the first in the know), which will be available every Saturday and Sunday to follow.

This menu promises to be a feast for the senses, with a tempting blend of sweet and savoury dishes that showcase the best of both Japanese and Peruvian cuisines. Among the highlights is the Nikkei egg bene with corn and sweet potato rosti, a hearty breakfast that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Equally tempting is the Inca poke bowl, a fresh and flavourful mix of salmon sashimi, edamame, avocado and coriander. And for those with a penchant for indulgence, the churros with bacon, maple syrup and a chilli-fried egg is a decadent treat not to be missed.

And, of course, paying homage to Central American cuisine, the restaurant’s special breakfast taco section, featuring a variety of sweet and savoury options served in hand-pressed corn masa tacos, is a standout addition to Auckland’s brunch scene.

Naturally, no brunch is complete without a refreshing tipple to start the day, and Inca Ponsonby has you covered with a special morning beverage menu. The Wake Up Call, with its blend of pisco, white cacao, cardamom and tonic, is sure to impress discerning tastes, while the Guava Bellini, made with house-made umeshu, guava sorbet, bubbles and elderflower, is a more leisurely option. And for those looking for a kick, the Inca Bloody Mary, made with vodka, yuzu, ginger aji racoto, ginger and bloomed wakame, is a spicy twist on a classic.

According to Watt, the brunch menu has been in the works for some time, and it is clear that he’s put a lot of consideration into its creation. “We think this style of cuisine lends itself well to the Ponsonby brunch scene,” he explains, “both for those wanting a quick bite to eat on their weekend walk or shopping trip down the Ponsonby strip, and for those looking for a longer, more leisurely brunch.” And with vegetarian and vegan options available, the menu caters to every appetite.

But it’s not just the offering that makes Inca Ponsonby a must-visit destination. Those yet to experience the restaurant’s stunning location, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Richmond Road and an outdoor area bathed in sunshine on lovely mornings, will soon discover it is the perfect spot for al fresco dining. Collaborating with CTRL Space, the interior design of the cavernous, open space is warmed with pink marble and cave-like plaster, colourful woven textile features, banquette seating and a suspended rattan ceiling peppered with colourful lamps and lanterns. There’s also a two-metre hearth at the heart of the restaurant adding to the necessary winter comforts.

All in all, this inviting new brunch menu is a welcome addition to our weekend plans. With its unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours, stunning location, and attention to detail, this will undoubtedly become a go-to destination for brunch lovers seeking something different to start their day.

Inca Ponsonby Brunch Hours:
Saturday — Sunday, 8am until 11.30am