Amanda Ruben is the founder and owner of Miss Ruben, a New York–inspired deli and cafe in suburban Ripponlea Village, in the heart of Melbourne’s Jewish community. The daughter of Jewish parents and a journalist by trade, Amanda grew up in the various kitchens of her entrepreneurial mother, Tamara, who ran a series of food businesses in Melbourne. After switching careers, Amanda opened two food stores in partnership with her mum. The two Cooper & Milla’s stores – named after Amanda’s two children – offered amazing salads, cakes and simple food based around the best seasonal produce. Miss Ruben has continued the theme, with a greater emphasis on catering and take-home food that subtly pays homage to the Jewish heritage of the area.