reville Street, the thoroughfare we all know and love, has taken a beating over the last decade, ushering the coming and going of many a shop. But at long last food has finally got a look in with a slew of new restaurants and cafes giving the street the much needed hit of savoir-faire it was lacking.

James Barone (Maya Tequila Bar and The Collection) has teamed up with Paul Butera to brave the corner of Edmond and Greville Street with their new cafe, Oscar Cooper. Conscious of the site’s tendency to host less than memorable establishments, the duo has stepped up to meet the challenge head on. They’ve gutted the site and transformed it into a bright airy destination that we hope will stick around for a while.

Design company The Anatomy contributed to the fit out, breathing an earthy, natural feel into the space with vegetation bursting from glass urns, wooden crates suspended on the wall, and a fireplace to boot. The windows have been peeled back letting the spring sunshine spill onto the banquettes. And if you like a side of people watching with your eggs, perch yourself on one of the stools that overlook the street.

Sleeping in is not frowned upon here with breakfast stretching on until 3pm. All the usual suspects are present, with an Oscar Cooper twang emphasising local produce. Think ricotta hotcakes with lemon curd and clotted cream or Oscar’s take on the classic Benedict with a potato rosti and smashed avocado. Moving along to lunch we have Cooper’s version of the classic Caesar salad with tea smoked duck, or for those wanting something more substantial, there’s the chilli prawn spaghetti. There’s no escaping memory lane with a unique take on jaffels, rotating combinations such as poached chicken and grolier or peking duck.

Small Batch is supplying the coffee with a host of rotating single origin roasts. And, for an extra hit with your caffeine, Oscar’s serving a sweet $10 espresso martini.

With its namesake paying homage to the owners’ beloved pet pooches, this young pup looks like our new southside brunch spot.

Oscar Cooper
160 Greville Street, Prahran

(03) 9529 5670

Hours
Tue to Fri 7am-5pm
Sat & Sun 8am-5pm