Robert Hamilton-Jones looks at a Port Moresby all-day cafe hidden within the Hilton Residences.

Host has a variety of pastry options. Credit: BAI

I was in two minds about reviewing Host. Not that it doesn’t merit a review, I just wasn’t sure if I wanted anyone else to find out about it.

Since the Hilton Hotel opened in Port Moresby in 2018, its lobby-level Copper Cafe has become so popular among the local business community that I’m surprised the cafe doesn’t charge some patrons rent. But all-day diner Host is tucked away out of sight, on the second floor of the Residences building that opened 12 months ago (adjacent to the Hubworks co-working space). I am amazed how many Copper regulars still don’t even know it exists.

The fit-out is classy and contemporary, with plenty of natural light and some subtle PNG touches. There’s a practical mix of counter seating and regular tables. And it is conveniently open from 6.30am for breakfast (or just coffee) right through until evening when it morphs into a pleasant dinner venue.

I particularly like the a la carte breakfast. On a recent visit I ordered poached eggs with smoked salmon, which was excellently prepared and presented, while my espresso arrived in a cute cup that looked handmade (even if it probably wasn’t). The rest of the menu ranges from the conventional (granola, pastries) to the more adventurous (dhal, waffles and even a nutritious ‘Super Bowl’).

Breakfast at Host is not cheap. But it might just be the best option in town and if you have a business meeting – or just want to be spoilt – it’s certainly worth it.

Anyway, the cat is certainly out of the bag now.

Interior of Host in Port Moresby. Credit: BAI

WHERE:

Star Mountain Plaza, Wards Road, Hohola.

PHONE:

+675 7901 8000

ONLINE:

starmountainplaza.com/restaurants-bars/host

OPEN:

6.30am to 11pm daily.

STYLE:

All-day cafe/bistro (licensed).

PRICES:

Breakfast from about PGK55–70; lunch and dinner mains from about PGK60 (beef burger) to PGK260 (wagyu scotch fillet); small bites about PGK40 (such as curry puffs and mac and cheese balls).

OUR FAVOURITE DISH:

Poached eggs with smoked salmon.

IN A PHRASE:

Port Moresby’s best all-day eatery.

This article was first published in the May–July 2025 issue of Paradise, the in-flight magazine of Air Niugini.