A small, modest spot in the heart of the Whitby shopping precinct, Nish Café may look unassuming but it packs a whole lot of heart.

Owners Shira and Erez say their main focus was always about creating a fusion of cultures, welding their backgrounds with the distinct identities of Porirua and New Zealand. This devotion to understanding and living the local culture has reaped its benefits, with Nish having forged its niche as a go-to for residents around Porirua.

An eye-catching driftwood sign sits proudly at the café’s entrance, drawing visitors into the homely space. No-frills simplicity is the overarching theme here: prosaic, tiled floors and plain walls exude neighbourhood cafeteria vibes, which suits Nish’s purposes perfectly well. This shouldn’t be mistaken for boring though. Good indoor-outdoor flow leads to more seating outside where you can soak in the sunny days, and a cute alcove in one corner is an ideal spot for a more intimate meeting.

Nish’s cabinet is one of its strongest assets and you’ll find a sumptuous range of sweet and savoury treats here, with the pecan pie singled out by the owners as a personal favourite. A wide-ranging menu makes it a great pick for a more full meal as well, with breakfast classics such as eggs benedict accompanied by vegan and vegetarian options.

All Shira and Erez wanted when they started out was a small café, a place they could call their own. Nish has turned out to be something so much more though, evolving into a hub where the pair can connect with every local that walks through the door, thanks of course to some exceptional food on display.