Visiting Manta Ray Coffee Roasters

We visited Manta Ray Coffee Roasters earlier in the year, and it's taken us this long to finally sit down to share our experience. Although Manta Ray opened its Nunawading roastery doors not too long ago, it had been on my radar for quite a while. The first time I heard of Manta Ray was when I noticed their unique packaging perched on a shelf at Calere, a beloved specialty coffee café in the heart of Fitzroy, Melbourne.

The Journey to Nunawading Roastery

Nestled in the bustling suburb of Nunawading in Melbourne, Manta Ray Coffee Roasters is a haven for coffee aficionados who appreciate the finer details of coffee production and consumption. The journey to the roastery is an adventure in itself, winding through the vibrant streets until you reach their minimalist yet inviting storefront. I can confirm whether you are driving or catching public transport, the trip is well worth the wait.

Manta Ray Coffee - First Impressions 

Stepping inside Manta Ray's flagship store and roastery, you’re greeted by the rich, intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted and brewed coffee beans. The interior strikes a perfect balance between industrial and modern minimalistic café vibes, making it a space where you can easily lose track of time and get swept away chatting to the staff about your coffee.

The one common theme with everything Manta Ray Coffee Roasters does is their attention to details. From their high quality selection of coffee bean offerings to their logo scattered throughout their store not much is missed.

Coffee Tasting Experience

Manta Ray offers a range of drinks, but the true stars are their single origin coffees, each with a story to tell. During our visit, we indulged tasting multiple single origins as pour over and espresso as well as some signature drinks which we shared.

Each coffee boasted distinct flavour profiles, from floral and citrusy notes to deep, chocolatey undertones, showcasing the roastery's skill in highlighting what each coffee has to offer.

The baristas at Manta Ray are not just skilled, they're passionate educators eager to share their knowledge and create an experience. We learned about the specific roast profiles used and the impact of these techniques on the flavour of the coffee. Manta Ray has a large bench that wraps around the baristas, it's inviting enough to chat to the baristas and the automatic pour over coffee machine is a great conversation starter.

Freshly Roasted Beans and Brew Gear

Aside from drinking their exquisite brews, visitors to Manta Ray can purchase freshly roasted beans to take home. The roastery also offers a modest selection of high quality brewing gear, curated to enhance your home brewing experience. Whether you're a novice or an expert, the staff are ready to guide you through the best tools for your coffee journey.

Manta Ray Coffee Roasters is more than just a coffee shop, it's a destination that celebrates the craft of coffee. Every cup serves as a reminder of the journey from bean to brew, a meticulous process that Manta Ray masters with apparent ease and dedication. It’s a place where coffee isn't just consumed but experienced and appreciated on a deeper level.

If you find yourself in Nunawading, or even remotely close, a visit to Manta Ray is worth the detour. It’s a spot that promises not only a perfect tasting cup of coffee but an enriching experience that will deepen your appreciation for coffee.