Jimmy Javni

“We all have the same goal,” says Jimmy Javni, who brings more than 20 years of hospitality experience to the Ormond Road project.

“We want to add value to the community.”

Jimmy, who is in charge of quality control and service, says the menu has an emphasis on fresh fare, which can be altered to accommodate dietary requirements.

Produce is also sourced locally where possible.

“We want to provide high-quality food and great, genuine customer service,” he says, smiling.

“We want people to come in and feel comfortable and welcomed.”

Stefan Borcuk

Co-owner Stefan Borcuk was responsible for the build.

His brief was to use raw, recycled materials to create a venue suited to a cafe by day and tapas bar by night. Timber and industrial furnishings have been used with restraint and the walls are a crisp gallery while allowing the displayed artwork to be the focus.

The simple-plan dining area has bench and chair seating to the right and higher stools to perch on at the left.  At the rear is the counter and service area, with shelves stacked full of coffee beans, tea and other ingredients.

“We wanted just enough so that we didn’t overpower the art,” says Stefan, who describes the space as his castle masterpiece.

Rachael Henderson

Rachael Henderson, partner of Jimmy, is the art curator.

She seeks local artists to display work in the cafe for six-week rotations and organises the exhibition launch parties.

“We’ve found the community wants to support small business and we want to involve ourselves in that too,” Rachael says.

“If an artist or creative wants to collaborate with us, we’re more than happy to work with them.”

Rachel Sawyer

Rachel Sawyer, fiancee of Stefan, is taking care of staff training and paperwork.

She says their new neighbours – which include wellness therapists and holistic hubs – have embraced the cafe.

“We’re surrounded by young entrepreneurs, like us,” she says.

“They have all been really accepting of us. It’s great to be a part of.”