Omar and the Marvellous Coffee Bird

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From the moment I heard the name, , a sense of enchantment and a child like excitement came over me. The way I felt was something akin to reading Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for the first time as a kid and wondering, if in fact, it was possible to make a palace entirely out of chocolate.

I simply must see this place, I thought to myself.

As I entered the café, I half expected to see a vast warehouse with hundreds of witches pots bubbling and brewing and a thousand pipes and buttons, whose purpose nobody knew.



In fact, what I did see was a mixture between stylish minimalism meets Willy Wonka's Factory. There are, in fact, a variety of pipes and machines that do look somewhat extraordinary, along with water jugs that appear as though they were freshly plucked from a mad scientists laboratory.

The tables in the main room are all exactly parallel to one another. This is due to the fact that each table has wheels and they are mounted on a miniature set of rail tracks, upon which they are able to roll to either side. This means all tables can be pushed together to make space for a large group, or separated for parties of two.



Assortments of delicious pastries are available for accompaniment with coffee. I myself sampled a cherry Danish, which perfectly complimented my cappuccino. As for the coffee itself, I had high expectations considering Omar's roast their own beans - I was not disappointed. Attention to detail exists both in the delicious blend of beans, and also in the preparation of your favourite brew.



Also on offer are a number of breakfast options and a lunch menu of assorted rolls, toasted flatbreads, and salads. For those looking for a gluten free option, gluten free bread is available as a substitute in the meals for only $1 extra. Another thoughtful and family friendly touch is the kid's menu that comprises of toasted half –size flatbreads of cheese and Vegemite or ham and cheese. Reasonable priced, you won't feel the need to stop for a Happy Meal before taking you little ones out with you.

The main room is where all the action is happening, however if you are seeking a quieter spot, there is also a sunroom and an outdoor area. The friendly staff are eager to chat, and happy to serve you but are not too in your face either. A pleasant change from some of the snooty service people you encounter these days.



Omar and The Marvellous Coffee Bird has captured a little piece of my heart. On a generally unremarkable street, Omar's is a truly remarkable place. An unforgettable experience, not just for the coffee lover, but also for anyone who looks for a venue that not only provides good food and service, but enchants them.

#cafes
#coffee
#gluten_free
#south_east
#gardenvale
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