We came here because we wanted to see what all the fuss was about at Ponsonby Central, the new artisan market housing several good eateries.

Parking was tricky, even early on a weekday morning. On weekends, expect to park a fair distance away and walk. But that's Ponsonby for you.

We walked in and thought this is what a perfect cafe looks like. We loved the eclectic interior design, the extraordinary array of cabinet food, the Kapiti icecream bar (candy floss on top, anyone?) and how the cafe sits nicely beside a bakery and a fresh produce stall.

The most unusual thing on the menu was empire eggs - puy lentils and cumin with chilli, tomato, coriander and soft poached eggs ($15.50). Coddled eggs with soldiers ($15.50) sounded pretty interesting too.

We ordered creamy vanilla risotto with cardamom, pistachios and plums ($16.50) and haloumi with roasted tomatoes, rocket and pesto on toast ($15.50).

Both were superb but top marks definitely go to the risotto.

The coffee was Supreme by brand and taste. We had two.

We recommend if you come here you sample some of the cabinet delights - there are pies, cakes, slices. All look divine. Then take a look around the rest of Ponsonby Central - it really is terrific.

Overall we thought we wish we lived closer - this is definitely one we'd love to make our local.