Chapel Street’s ever-popular hotspot, Morris Jones, has undergone a stunning transformation with the launch of INCA, Melbourne’s first Nikkei restaurant. The new owners, Callum O’Sullivan, Bradley Putzier, Giovanni Pino, and the legendary DJ powerhouse Andy Murphy, have taken this iconic venue to new heights.
Stepping into the newly refurbished Inca: Morris Jones, I was immediately captivated by the mesmerising Ostrich Feather Chandeliers that adorned the space. The luxurious Emerald, Green velvet booths added a touch of opulence, setting the scene for an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu at INCA is a culinary masterpiece, offering a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours that will tantalise your taste buds. From the exquisite caviar to the mouth-watering grilled salmon with anticuchera sauce and octopus, each dish was a true delight.
But it was the dessert that truly stole the show. A decadent chocolate pudding topped with warm sauce, vanilla ice cream, and fairy floss had me in dessert heaven. Each bite was a symphony of flavours, leaving me craving more.
Michelin-trained chef Carlos Moreira is leading the kitchen.
Moreira is a seasoned culinary artist with over 20 years of experience across Michelin-starred and hatted restaurants. Originally from Brazil, he has a true passion for both Japanese and South American cuisine. His career started in Brazil, and he has spent extended periods in Peru researching the origins of Nikkei cuisine and savouring the tastes of Nikkei food, from its origins to the world’s most renowned Nikkei restaurant, Maido in Lima.
“Melbourne’s dynamic food scene with the highest quality produce is the perfect backdrop for showcasing the innovative dishes we’ll be creating at INCA,” Moreira said.
The launch event was a star-studded affair, with the likes of Clint Stanaway from the Today Show, Jackson Warne, Candice Wyatt, Tahan Lew, Tom Cutler, Jacinta Stapleton, Moraya Wilson, and Campbell Brown in attendance. The ambiance was electric, the food exquisite, and the company exceptional.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that is truly out of this world, look no further than INCA at Morris Jones. With its stunning decor, innovative menu, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for food lovers and socialites alike.
By Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Sam Tabone.
