Scorch-O-Rama
We’d heard... The busy brunch spot offers beautiful views over Wellington Harbour (on a good day), a substantial brunch and lunch menu, and some neat, nerdy decor.
The vibe... Laidback with lots of geek memorabilia on display, combined with an effortless beachside vibe, even on a wet and foggy Wellington day.
We ordered... The aptly named Hulk Smash ($17.50), a ‘‘millennial and noughty’’ take on smashed avocado on toasted multigrain bread which, with avocados basically green gold at $7 a pop at supermarkets, turned out to be a pretty good deal. Scorch-O-Rama’s offering was more than generous with big chunks of perfectly ripe avocado, red pepper hummus and sliced tomatoes, served with well-dressed rocket and dukkah. It felt healthy, and very filling.
On the flipside, my dining companion opted for the less healthy special; the pork belly burger ($23).
The large offering was impressive in size, with large chunks of pork belly slathered with apple bourbon barbecue sauce. Presentation-wise, it elicited a ‘‘wow’’ from both of us because of its height, but it proved near-impossible to pick up, so a knife and fork approach was necessary.
The side of well-salted fries included with the burger helped quell any lingering hunger between us. Finally, a well-made soy flat white ($5.50) and a creaming soda ($4.50) offered the sugar/caffeine hit needed to brave the wintry weather outside.
The service… Very welcoming from the get-go. Our server was friendly and offered suggestions.
If you go… If it’s a cold day, embrace the indoor-outdoor flow and grab a seat inside with a view out to the harbour, and be sure to take a wander around to check out all the ‘‘nostalgia and nerdery’’ on display.