Almost fifteen years ago, love blossomed over an espresso machine. Tori and Chris, in their respective roles as barista and ‘crushtomer’, met and connected over a mutual appreciation of great coffee. Shortly thereafter, they purchased the café that provided the setting for their meet cute, Coffee Traders Mornington, on the Mornington Peninsula. Fast forward to today and after selling one café and purchasing another, the couple are now the proud proprietors of Higher Ground Mt Martha – a true labour of love.
With this café, Tori and Chris wanted to create a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming indoor space to serve local customers and seasonal tourists alike. With the beach just a short walk away, Higher Ground provides a welcome refuge from the sun and wind during hot summer days and a cosy spot to hide out in over the winter months. A recent refurbishment includes a white marble bench, dark blue geometric tiles and elaborate light fixtures. A matte black Synesso MVP Hydra shares centre stage with a pastry case stuffed with goodies – house made brownies, noisette pastries and a selection of brightly iced biscuits to keep the kids entertained.
It’s all about the coffee at Higher Ground. On a recent visit, Chris was busy slinging out Crompton Road flat whites to the mid-morning crowd.
A café full of local customers is always a great sign, and Chris’ easy rapport with the room is testament to the fact that these are true regulars who crowd the place out. Double ristrettos form the base of all their milk drinks which distinguishes Higher Ground in terms of coffee strength and quality. A rotating selection of single origin espresso is also served.
So, next time you’re in Mt Martha be sure to follow the locals around the corner from the main drag, and check out this gem of a café. Take the Higher Ground!
Higher Ground
5/5 Howey Road
Mount Martha VIC 3934
Opening Hours
Mon – Sat: 7am – 4pm
Sunday: 8am – 4pm
Instagram: higherground_mountmartha
Facebook: facebook.com/higherground3934
© Photos provided with permission by Emily Bartlett. All rights reserved by photographer.
Featured in this cafe.
