"According to the bible, Manna comes from heaven but according to Toorakites in the know, it comes from the old vicarage at the rear of the Toorak Uniting Church. Set amidst lush gardens and with paintings from the adjacent art gallery adorning its walls, the eponymously named café is a meditative space offering the visitor an escape from the daily grind. On the other hand, there is no escaping the delicious aroma of the daily grind of the coffee served at Manna.

Like the barrista, who is no latte-com-lately, the experienced chefs have risen to new heights here. I am not just talking food, which ranges from full-on breakfasts, through lunch, snacks, home-made cakes and take-out, I’m talking nourishing the spirit. Sit in the grand old dining-room or under the gazebo in the gardens, away from the rush of Toorak Rd., and you’ll feel instantly refreshed. A delicate Manna-made friand ($3.0) served on fine china helps no doubt, or for heartier comfort, the warming tomato, lentil & capsicum soup ($8.8). My personal recommendations are for breakfast, the Dukkah Eggs ($11.80), Middle-Eastern inspired fried eggs with feta and exotic spices, and for lunch, the Chicken Schnitzel ($14.8), a gremolata crusted succulent chicken breast. The Specials Board which changes according to what’s fresh and in season deserves a look-in as well.

Besides the main dining-room, Manna offers a separate function room, suitable for 50 seated or 100 standing, as well as catering in your own home.
The cafe is open everyday from 8am-4pm. Ring ahead for a table on 9829 0341. "