Now Open: Inca at Morris Jones Is Melbourne's First Nikkei Restaurant, Heroing Japanese and Peruvian Fusion Cuisine

Japanese and Peruvian cultures have intertwined for over 100 years, leading to the creation of a fascinating fusion cuisine known as Nikkei. It combines both cultures' produce and cooking techniques to craft new dishes and traditions that are bursting with colour and flavour.

And while Melbourne has hosted plenty of Nikkei pop-ups, and a few restaurants have presented limited-time Nikkei menus, our city hasn't had a permanent restaurant dedicated to this cuisine — as far as we know.

Until now, that is, thanks to Chapel Street's new Inca at Morris Jones, which opened on Saturday, July 6. Chef Carlos Moreira is running the kitchen here, pumping out classic Nikkei dishes like ceviche and tiradito — but with his own contemporary twists that go well beyond the usual varieties you're used to. 

Sure, you'll find the obligatory kingfish ceviche which graces every other menu in Melbourne, but there are also playful tuna, salmon and vegan versions. We're also eager to sample the wagyu beef tiradito served with crispy capers, cornichons and mustard tartufo nero.

Beyond these, you'll also find the likes of Sydney rock oysters with pisco sour granita; tostada de carmarones with aji verde; spanner crab taquitos; a whole dry-aged duck with burned orange and aji amarillo crema; and a 300-gram black angus picanha with sweet potato and anticuchera sauce.

Moreira is originally from Brazil, but has spent vast amounts of time in Peru researching the origins of Nikkei cuisine. He's also worked in his fair share of Michelin-starred and hatted kitchens, so we are expecting big things at Inca. 

The drinks list is also inspired by Nikkei flavours, boasting plenty of Peruvian pisco sours, Japanese whiskies and light lagers.

All of this is being served within the recently renovated Morris Jones, which is also home to a luxe bar with a dance floor and DJs, and a newly designed courtyard that takes it cues from West Hollywood in the 60s and 70s. 

While you're hitting up Inca for Nikkei eats, be sure to nose around the rest of Morris Jones. 

You'll find Inca at 163 Chapel Street, Windsor, open 4pm–1am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 12pm–1am from Friday to Sunday. For more details and to book a table, visit the venue's website.