19 Aug Oneyada Thai Cafe, Abbotsford

One of Melbourne’s finest Thai restaurants, Jinda Thai, has branched into the cafe scene with Oneyada. Straying from the typical brunch menus of late, their food is inspired by traditional Thai breakfast dishes instead.

The quaint cafe has a handful of glass-topped tables, all surrounded by rattan chairs. Walls are decorated with paintings created by Fon herself, who completed a Masters in Fine Arts in Thailand.

Kaya toast – House farmhouse mini loaf with pumpkin kaya and pandan kaya ($9.80)

Kaya toast – House farmhouse mini loaf with pumpkin kaya and pandan kaya ($9.80)

Thai milk tea with condensed milk ($4)

Not quite enough for one, unless you’re more in the mood for a snack, the kaya ‘toast’ is perfect for sharing. Both pumpkin and pandan kaya can be spooned onto Oneyada’s fluffy house made mini loaves. I’m fortunate enough to occassionally receive jars of amazing homemade Malaysian-style kaya from a family friend, so I’m a little spoilt. Oneyada’s pandan kaya has more of a subtle taste, being not too strong on the pandan and coconut flavour. The pumpkin kaya is sweet and smooth; an interesting variation, though I personally prefer the pandan.

Jasmine Rice Soup – Jasmine rice, barramundi fillet, spring onion, ginger, soybean nam-jim ($14.90)

Jasmine Rice Soup has a nice balance of protein and carbs, the three barramundi fillets swimming in a clean-tasting broth with spring onion and ginger. A dish of earthy and slightly spicy soybean nam jim comes on the side. Very simple and homely, something mum might make if I’m feeling under the weather.

Guay Jub Yuan ($12.90)

After yesterday’s glorious, sunny 20C day, today’s rain and cloudiness was a real downer. What better to brighten up one’s mood than a hot, comforting bowl of noodles? The Guay Jub Yuan uses springy glutinous rice noodles that have a nice chew, and comes with soft pork bones and balls of minced pork, topped with coriander, dried shallots and spring onion. For a spicy kick, pickled chilli and/or hot chilli sauce can be added into the tasty soup. A winner of a dish.

Whether you’re craving something different for brunch, or miss those Asian-style breakfasts, Oneyada Thai Cafe is definitely one to check out, and can be found just around the corner from its mother restaurant.

Oneyada Thai Cafe
239 Victoria St
Abbotsford, VIC, 3067
(03) 9041 1525
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