Via Porta opens spin-offs in Hawthorn and Kew

Mont Albert cafe Via Porta has spread its wings, adding a second location geared to takeaway in Kew and a dedicated bakery in nearby Hawthorn.

Via Porta Bakehouse brings the team's viennoiserie skills into public view. Up until now, treats like almond and lemon curd croissants have been made in the original cafe's basement space.

At Hawthorn, pastry lovers can see the open kitchen where specials such as pear and almond turnovers or mushroom XO danishes are made. These complement mortadella and stracciatella sandwiches and rotating salads, including curried cauliflower, chickpea and pomegranate. Focaccia is in the works.

Pronto by Via Porta offers speedy espresso-bar style service, but in a gorgeously appointed pink and timber space from Studio Esteta.

"It very much takes from the Italian heritage and the bones of Via Porta," says co-owner Simon Cosentino.

Five Senses coffee joins toasties, salad rolls and other quick and easy fare. Locals getting their daily caffeine fix will be also able to pick up dinner: eggplant parmigiana, perhaps, or shepherd's pie.

Via Porta Bakehouse is open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2pm at 646 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn.

Pronto by Via Porta is open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2pm at 7 Fenton Way, Kew.