Photography courtesy of Muse Photography

Just when we thought the boys behind Arthur’s Pantry and Mr O were due for a rest after recently opening Arthur’s at night while running two cafes, Noah Leonard and Blake Gontier have done it again with their new cafe, Ronnie’s.

Named after Noah’s late grandfather, Ronnie’s is everything you love about Arthur’s Pantry and Mr O fused together – that is, classic cafe food done well with unexpected additions sprinkled throughout the menu. 

“Our vision for the menu at Ronnie’s was to bring ingredients and items we love from both Arthur’s and Mr O and create a fusion that everyone will enjoy,” Noah said.

Ronnie’s opened on Thursday, May 16, taking over the space that was formerly Eden Grounds, bringing a fresh energy to the shopping village at Hunter Valley Gardens.

“Blake had previously managed the venue many years ago and I had helped out on weekend shifts on the odd occasion, so we had always joked about going into the space if it became available.

“We got speaking with some friends recently and they mentioned the owner was looking to pass it on – so here we are!” 

A fresh coat of paint and a few personal touches here and there, and the cafe feels brand new. On the menu, you’ll find breakfast and lunch classics with a twist, which is what we love about menus by these guys. Think waffles with caramelised banana and browned butter caramel, zucchini and haloumi fritters with a Middle Eastern influence, and an eggs Benedict with chipotle hollandaise, pickled chilli, and lamb.

Glee Coffee Roasters are once again providing the goods in the coffee department, while you can also find the TikTok-famous strawberry matcha on the menu, as well as cocktails and local wines for when the hour ticks over the lunchtime.

We’re excited to see the reception to Noah and Blake’s third venue – if the first two are anything to go by, we reckon Ronnie’s will be a local favourite in no time.