Gabriel revives Ruby’s Café

Since doing her apprenticeship at the former Byzantine restaurant in Stanwell Park, chef Gabriel Constable has had her eye on Ruby’s Revival Café.

Now the 25-year-old has secured the lease on the landmark café and opened Ruby’s Kitchen for business on 20 January.

“I always thought it would be a great spot for a restaurant,” said the Austinmer resident. “I’ve been interested in it since halfway through last year.”

The restaurant business is in Gabriel’s blood with her parents operating the former Blue Water Take-out in Thirroul. She has been cooking since she was 14 and trained under a Michelin chef at Byzantine.

She will be changing the menu at Ruby’s (as well as the famous fat lady on the sign) to a “healthy” fare, including vegetarian dishes, tarts, pasta and open sandwiches.

Gabriel has secured Sego Fredo as her coffee supplier and her mum, Ann-Marie, will be the barrista.

Ruby’s will be open from 9am to 4pm Thursday, Friday and Monday; and from 8am to 5pm on weekends. Gabriel plans to open nights in about a month after she “gets her feet on the ground”.

“And when the road re-opens, we’ll be open seven days,” she said, admitting the business would leave her no time for a social life.

“I’m single but the restaurant will be my new husband … I’m going out with Reuben. At least he won’t talk back!”