Rays by Out in the Paddock (OITP) has had a successful three-month run since opening in Burnside Village in September, following the success of their previous pop-up installation, Bottega by OITP. The team has confirmed plans to renovate their current space in 2025, adding even more of their signature style and charm to the space.
Out in the Paddock was so well-received at Burnside Village that they negotiated a permanent return to the centre. The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many left disappointed when the initial pop-up ended.
“It’s been amazing. Obviously the pop-up was a massive success, and then people were really sad to see us go,” OITP Owner Ray Dahdah says. “We had beautiful customers here that would go to the concierge and give really good feedback – the support was incredible and we were just blown away.”
“I think it was missing something here that we’re now doing. We’re not doing something too out there, but it’s fresh paninis, really good coffee and beautiful cakes. It’s been a real mix of everything, and I think that’s just what has been missing here.”
While Rays by OITP is here to stay, plans are already in place to renovate the space between June and August 2025. The team will be completely reimagining the space, with the goal of adding a more “luxe feel” while keeping the casual and approachable vibe that customers love.
As Ray explains, the venue is working within an existing fit-out, so there are some limitations to what they can do. But, they plan to introduce more floral installations and personalised touches that reflect the Out in the Paddock aesthetic.
With the Burnside Village redevelopment well underway and 80 new stores set to open next year, the timing couldn’t be better for Rays by OITP. The centre is already drawing increased foot traffic, particularly since the opening of Zara. “Now that Zara has opened, it was our busiest group by about 30% or 40% overnight,” Ray says. “Imagine when there’s 80 odd retailers.”
When it comes to the food and drink offered at Rays by OITP, their menu features paninis, focaccias, and fresh sandwiches, with standout options like a prosciutto sandwich with chilli honey and a popular chicken macadamia sando on thick, rustic bread. “We can never keep up with them [the chicken sandos]. They’ve been a massive hit,” Ray says.
They also do beautiful sweets, including scones with jam and cream (a recipe from Ray’s sister Rita who is also the brand’s florist), granola parfaits, cheesecakes, and sourdough donuts with unique fillings sourced from North Adelaide’s Butter and Toast.
For coffee, Rays uses Rio Coffee, a family-owned roaster based in South Australia. “We know the owner [of Rio Coffee] who is 93 years old, and he comes in for his coffee here. It’s so lovely. We’ve been able to build such a beautiful big community feel here,” Ray says.
With plans for renovations in 2025 and a growing customer base, Rays by Out in the Paddock is set to become an even bigger part of the Burnside Village community. As the space evolves, it’s sure to continue attracting even more loyal customers.
What: Rays by Out in the Paddock
Where: Burnside Village (in the Atrium Mall)
Instagram: @raysbyoitp
For more on Out in the Paddock, click here.