The name is derived from the Latin word for time or hour, a subtle theme with no link to the previous tenants with a similar name, Japanese restaurant Ocha, which recently moved to Hawthorn. Ora is a fresh addition to the quaint shopping village in Kew and another turn at bringing serious coffee to the suburbs, a la The Premises.

The small, single-fronted space is shiny and new and unlike any of its neighbours. At this stage, the cafe seats just 26 on wooden benches and tables made by Manolas’ father and uncle, as diners consider an adventurous cafe menu by Masters.

Dishes cover all day dining, with breakfast items like fried duck egg, black pudding, breakfast radish and parsley salad or pancakes with hazelnuts, pear, blueberries and milk ice. For something more lunchy, there is a potato tortilla, prawn and scallop ravioli or a veggie sandwich with kasundi and farmhouse cheddar. Out back there’s a large garden with a veggie patch, where the Ora team are growing their own herbs and veggies. Talk about local produce!

All the while, Vroom works behind the fancy machines, brewing siphon and pour over coffee like a science experiment with a blend of beans made by Proud Mary especially for the cafe. They’re also planning to open up a room out back for brewing and cupping sessions down the track.

Once again, we’re seeing seasoned inner city baristas brining superior coffee further afield. This one is sure to be a hit and will no doubt entice cafe hunters from all over town.

Ora
156 Packington Street, Kew
(03) 9855 2002

Hours
Tue to Fri 7am–4pm
Sat to Sun 8am–4pm