Cafe Oratnek, Redfern

We enjoyed our recent visit to Cafe Kentaro so much that we decided to also check out their sister cafe called Cafe Oratnek in Redfern. We were pleasantly surprised to find that while they share a similar Japanese fusion menu, the vibe of Cafe Oratnek is different as it is unexpectedly housed in the ground floor of a charming terrace, with an outdoor seating area as well.

For this particular brunch, we went with a dish which we hadn’t seen on the menu at Cafe Kentaro (the Japanese Ochazuke) and also one which we had spotted the last time we visited Kentaro but didn’t have a chance to try yet (the Coddled Egg in a Jar).

Both were brilliant in their own way, especially the Japanese Ochazuke which was beautifully plated up with a grilled rice ball setting the foundation for an artful mound of salmon and nori seaweed, which we then drizzled the teapot of fragrant chicken jasmine dashi broth over. The result was a comforting, yet flavourful breakfast dish which tantalised our tastebuds in a way that the standard brunch fare doesn’t usually.

Japanese Ochazuke, $16

The Coddled Egg in a Jar was also an interesting option, served with buttered sourdough soldiers that we dipped into the runny egg in the jar that had been spiked with a creamy wasabi mash and an intriguing edamame hummus. We also ordered a side of the Miso Mushrooms, which was the best decision ever as these mushrooms were an addictive umami flavour explosion and really elevated the dish.

Coddled Egg in a Jar, $16 with Miso Mushrooms (+$5)

We are big fans of Japanese fusion and when it is done right, the quirky twists on standard dishes make dining much more fun and our tastebuds end up enjoying the difference as well. We’re happy to see that Cafe Oratnek matches the high bar set by their sister cafe Cafe Kentaro and we will be back for more Japanese fusion when the craving next hits.

Cafe Oratnek
4 Pitt Street, Redfern, 2016
Phone: 02 8394 9550