Ponsonby certainly has no shortage of all-class eateries. However, once past the ever popular gastro hub Ponsonby Central, heading towards K Road, the ‘cool cafe’ quotient is subject to a very noticeable drop-off. Born out of the realisation that this particular segment of the strip was in dire need of a decent cafe, a new all-day eatery called Longshot has opened its doors next to nightlife stalwart, Longroom.

The Paul-Izzard designed cafe is a great example of the fact that ‘good things come in small packages’. Brimming with marble and golden accents, it’s a refreshing and modern addition to this end of Ponsonby. As for the menu, it’s worth getting excited, for here we were privy to one of the best breakfasts we’ve devoured in a while. With subtle Spanish, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, we couldn’t go past sampling the savoury ham and cheese waffles with poached eggs, spinach and chipotle hollandaise. The bruschetta with mixed wild mushrooms, whipped goats cheese and dukkah was also sublime, much like the scotch egg with potatoes, peas, cocktail onions and cornichons.

The lunch menu consists of club favourites — a Wagyu beef burger, steak-frites and a delicious panko crumbed snapper — while there are also plenty of options for those who would rather smaller/shared plates. Delicious offerings like the saffron and mozzarella arancini, pulled beef brisket sliders, mini paella with chorizo, squid and Cloudy Bay clams, and crispy pork belly with sweet miso are sure to please those looking to graze. Naturally, in the not too distant future, Longshot will also cater to those after an after work tipple and a bite to eat from Thursday to Saturday.

So what might at first appear to be a small hole in the wall coffee stop is, in fact, a very promising new daytime eatery. For those who appreciate a good ambience, diversity in offerings and great coffee, a visit to this new Ponsonby resident is definitely in order.