Having recently opened on Ponsonby Road, Pilar Cafe & Eatery is the suburb’s newest cafe serving perfectly roasted Rocket coffee, friendly service and unique daytime fare that marries Asian-fusion flavours with classic European brunch. The result is a must-try spot that puts an unexpected twist on those dishes that are perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast or a quick before-work bite.
Started by Siyuan Sheng who has been working as a chef in New Zealand for a decade, the idea for Pilar was born from Sheng’s desire to offer a place where people could not only find utterly delicious food, but also, a place to sit back and relax (even if only for a brief moment). “For me, a cafe is not only about providing food or coffee,” she tells us, “it is also a place where people can rest, which is what I love.”
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On the menu, punters will discover a uniquely flavoursome mix of Asian-fusion flavours intertwined with traditional Kiwi cafe food — an intriguing combination. “We want to bring new, creative ideas to our customers,” Sheng reveals, citing Pilar’s chilly scramble with green onions and its corn fritters with basil pesto, sour cream, salsa, spinach and poached eggs and two early favourites on the menu. The distinctly tasty line-up also includes dishes like a fluffy blueberry pancake served with bacon and red-wine poached pear, salmon poke bowls, kimchi fried rice and a series of ever-changing, seasonal chef’s specials and daily sweet treats.
Here, the offering is wonderfully diverse with something to suit virtually any taste or proclivity. So whether you’re looking for a place to park up for an easy bite, or want a sunny, laid-back spot to catch up with someone for coffee, Pilar ticks the boxes in a big way. As Sheng explains, “Ponsonby is a busy area so I would like to provide a place where people can have a break from the busyness… like another home in the city.”
From its delectable food to its very good coffee and calm setting, Pilar is a place that should be on your radar. And when you’re met with Sheng’s exceptional service with a smile, you’ll likely want to make it your new regular.
