Maria

The Verdict

Located on Main Street in Upwey, couple Josh O’Brien and Omar Viramontes, who have created a menu combining Aussie brunch and traditional Mexican dishes have recently opened up the doors to Maria cafe. Maria is named after Omar’s grandmother who has a Mexican background and so the food is a spin-off of many of her recipes. The cafe is sister to Lorna Cafe, which has been successfully running for two years in Ferntree Gully. 

Close to the 1000 steps track and the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, Maria cafe attracts people from all walks of life from fitness fanatics to Mums with their bubs to tradies. The space is minimalist with wooden tables and chairs, colourful plates and plants hanging off the walls; oh so Melbourne style. 

Serving up Industry Beans coffee, the cafe offers a wide rotating selection of single origins as well as specialty lattes like beetroot, turmeric and matcha which can be presented on a trio board so customers can try them all. Signature dishes include the huevos rotas, otherwise known as ‘broken eggs’; a concoction of fried eggs, chorizo ragu, potatoes, lime avo and a whole lot more. There’s also a fair few options to satisfy those with a sweet tooth like the Pina Colada taco with white rum custard, pineapple compote and salted caramel popcorn. Kids can feast on the Little Maria’s menu with churro waffles or a brisket slider. 

Even if you’re after an afternoon beverage, the team at Maria are also serving up wine, beer and some creative cocktails if that takes your fancy. Come in and get your Melbourne Mexican fix.

Image credit: supplied