"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. "      

The Foodies Journal Aug 2008

"They are passionate about food and drink at manna.
Bread is baked daily. Baguettes, Ciabbatas, Pides and Piadinas are filled with  the finest produce.   European style cakes are baked daily.  
Sandwiches are filled with quality cold cuts and fresh vegetables.

Manna's premium coffee beans are roasted three times a week and together with the best milk available helps create a coffee experience like never before in this part of Melbourne 
Manna also uses prime leaf teas that are 100% organic and only from high altitude.  
They stock organic soft drinks, the best Australian mineral water, large range of artisanal jams and preserves.
Manna also offers low fat and gluten-free foods all made in house.
Manna's home-cooked meals will nurture you. Linger in Manna's garden or take home a bit of manna!

Manna also caters. There are various function rooms on the premises from a small function room in the Old Manse to a large hall catering up to 350 seated.

Come to manna. It's a slice of heaven."

Melbourne Eat Well Dec'08

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