Pina

The word “pina” is Spanish for pineapple. But according to Room Ten co-owner Andrew Hardjasudarma, it also symbolises hospitality and generosity. It’s a fitting name for the spin-off (and one-time pop-up) to his Potts Point neighbourhood cafe, which he co-owns with wife and head chef Yuvi Thu.

Located opposite Room Ten in Llankelly Place, Pina is, in theory, an extra space to cater for Room Ten’s overflow. But in reality, it’s a beast all its own – with a much larger kitchen and three distinct dining areas, all centred around the open kitchen. Pull up a seat in the intimate indoor dining room with pendant lighting; a bar that look out over the laneway; or covered seating in the alleyway.

As with Room Ten, which counts celebrity chefs such as Neil Perry and “Big” Sam Young among its legion of fans, Pina is all about everyday dishes locals can rely on. But there are a few flourishes. The bacon-and-egg roll, for example, comes with house-made harissa and aioli, and you might order scrambled eggs with an eggplant and tomato caponata on the side. Then there’s the cauliflower sandwich packed with parsley, cucumber, tomato, pickled onion and tahini-lime dressing.

Coffee is by Mecca, and there’s also matcha, shakes and signature iced teas. Pina is also licensed, with a good selection of Australian wine, local beer and spritzes on offer.