Upwey: Maria opened near 1000 Steps by Lorna cafe owners
Fitness fanatics have another dining option after they finish their workout at the 1000 Steps, with a new cafe offering a Mexican-inspired brunch menu.
Outer East
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Ferntree Gully’s cafe Lorna has been so popular its owners have opened another eatery on the other side of the 1000 Steps.
But while sister-cafe Maria, located just a stone’s throw away in Upwey, also offers knockout coffee, its brunch menu features a distinct Mexican and South American influence.
Think churros waffles, brisket tacos, lamb back tostadas, chips and guacamole.
When Josh O’Brien and Omar Viramontes opened modern-Australian cafe Lorna two years ago, they named it after Mr O’Brien’s grandmother, and made her homemade crumpet a staple on the menu.
This time around the married couple have named the cafe after Mr Viramontes’ grandmother, paying homage to his Mexican heritage.
The menu has been inspired by the dishes his mother would make for him as he was growing up.
And the cuisine has already been proving to be a hit with locals and those visiting the Dandenong Ranges since the cafe opened in September, according to Mr Viramontes.
He said the Croquettes Benedict, which features panko crumbed sweet potato and chorizo croquettes, oaxaca cheese, red capsicum jam, poached eggs and hollandaise, seemed to be customers’ favourite dish so far.
Maria also aims to offer a standout coffee menu, using Industry Beans and a wide rotating selection of single origins, plus a special cold brew.
Mr Viramontes said the pair decided to open the second business after they had so many inquiries from customers about whether they would expand, with Lorna regularly full with diners.
And they’ve upped the ante with the new cafe, where they’re also going to host functions.
Maria is fully licensed, offering a selection of specialty wine and beer, and some creative cocktails, and can hold up to 50 people.
Mr Viramontes said they were excited to start hosting birthdays, Christmas functions, anniversaries and other celebrations, and already had three lined up.
Maria can be found at 56-58 Main St, Upwey.
More info: mariamelbourne.com.au