OTTO
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Dry ice, disappearing fairy floss and even gravity-defying noodles, Melbournians have seen every theatrical food novelty there is. Now, there’s a new cafe in town from the alumni of White Mojo, Kitty Burns and The Guilty Moose that’s putting all that aside to focus on what’s truly important - genuinely good food with a hint of originality, made with fresh, interesting ingredients and served with a dose of warm hospitality, not pretentiousness.
Introducing OTTO Fine Food & Specialty Coffee! Brought to you by Melbourne hospitality experts, Alger Liu, Allen Goh and Jason Pribadi, collectively from Grossi Florentino, White Mojo, Kitty Burns and The Guilty Moose, the venue’s name is derived from an acronym of the phrase ‘Ode to the Original’. This mantra refers to the trio’s approach to both food and business; Of being pioneers with original ideas and a fresh attitude, using tried and tested methods and processes to bring intriguing results that combine the expected and the unexpected, the familiar and the ambitious, without resorting to flamboyant ploys.
This philosophy can be found in their distinctive menu, which incorporates unique ingredients with a Japanese focus.
We loved everything we tasted at OTTO. The cheekily named dish, “Let’s Make Some Smoke” was a true highlight. Twice cooked king salmon was served with asparagus, rice pearl, edamame bean, potato popcorn, pickle carrot, radish, mustard leaf and finished with 62 degree egg encasing dripping yolk and spicy umami mayonnaise. It was theatrically presented and tasted even better than it looked.
OTTO’s version of the poke bowl was similarly delicious with tempura miso tofu, carrot, cucumber, avocado, edamame bean, brown rice, radish and sesame seed.
If you prefer something a little more sinful, do not go past the luxurious Hotcakes with slow-cooked apple, blueberry gel, hob nob, butterscotch sauce, caramelised grains and mascarpone will hit the spot. It’s AMAZING.
As expected of any great Melbourne café, coffee is great and poured by adept baristas. OTTO proudly serves Padre Coffee’s Daddy’s Girl blend, a smooth, chocolatey espresso with a consistent quality.
Location: 3/189 Bridge Road, Richmond
Phone: +61 3 9428 8929
